As anticipation builds among fans, it appears increasingly doubtful that Brandon Sanderson‘s expansive Cosmere will make its way to the screen anytime soon. However, one particular title demands immediate adaptation consideration — possibly even more than his highly popular series, Mistborn and The Stormlight Archive. The recent news that the Mistborn film project has regressed to “square one”was disheartening for many, especially with Sanderson’s voiced concerns regarding the current state of fantasy television, leaving the future of Mistborn and Stormlight adaptations uncertain.
While there’s the possibility of seeing these worlds adapted into films, navigating through production stages could prove time-consuming. Meanwhile, adaptations of works like Sanderson’s Snapshot, Skyward, and Tress of the Emerald Sea are on the horizon, as mentioned in the author’s 2024 State of the Sanderson. Yet another gem in Sanderson’s bibliography stands out for adaptation — a work that many consider underrated. This 12-year-old novel might align better with current trends, suggesting it could be more accessible to adapt than the expansive Cosmere.
Why Brandon Sanderson’s Steelheart Is Ideal for Screen Adaptation
Rich with Action, Emotional Depth, & Compelling Characters
Though Steelheart, published in 2013, is not frequently lauded among Sanderson’s best works, its potential for adaptation is undeniable. This young adult novel diverges from his typical high fantasy, set in a dystopian universe where select individuals gain extraordinary powers following a phenomenon known as Calamity. Dubbed Epics, these powered beings exploit their abilities to dominate the powerless population, igniting a tale of rebellion. The protagonist, David, is fueled by a desire for justice and revenge.
Joining a resistance group known as the Reckoners, David seeks to challenge these tyrannical Epics. In a narrative that fuses superhero elements with compelling dystopian themes, Sanderson’s Steelheart checks all the boxes necessary for a successful screen adaptation. With its intense emotional stakes and a diverse array of characters, along with the allure of superhuman abilities, it has everything needed to captivate audiences. Moreover, the existence of two sequels provides an ample pipeline for future installments.
If the Cosmere Is Off the Table, Studios Should Consider the Reckoners Series
A More Accessible Starting Point for Sanderson Adaptations
With its rich narrative, Steelheart and its sequels present an enticing opportunity for adaptation; should the elusive Cosmere not come to fruition soon, this Sanderson narrative deserves the spotlight. Although the Reckoners may not be as massive in scale or as widely recognized as Sanderson’s Cosmere, its themes have the potential to resonate with a broader audience through a television series or movie format. This work possesses the qualities needed to attract both newcomers and dedicated Sanderson fans—and at this point, the latter are simply eager to see any of his literary masterpieces come to life.
Furthermore, the narrative structure of Steelheart appears to be better suited for adaptation, especially given the prevalence of superhero-themed content in contemporary cinema.
The Reckoners Align Perfectly with Today’s Anti-Superhero Trend
The Success of Series Like The Boys Demonstrates Its Feasibility
Aside from its suitability for adaptation, Steelheart resonates with current trends in the television landscape, further enhancing its adaptation appeal. The rise of anti-superhero narratives has captured audiences’ imaginations, with successful series like The Boys, Invincible, and The Umbrella Academy proving the viability of such stories. Viewers are increasingly intrigued by narratives that subvert traditional superhero tropes and explore the darker sides of power — asking compelling questions, such as how might superheroes misuse their extraordinary abilities?
This cultural climate presents a prime opportunity to spotlight the narrative premise of Steelheart, aligning seamlessly with titles like The Boys. The heightened interest in this subgenre, combined with Sanderson’s established credibility, suggests that a Steelheart adaptation could achieve significant success. Should the Cosmere remain on the back burner, this young adult narrative serves as an excellent alternative that deserves more attention in adaptation discussions.