Peter Jackson is eyeing his next fantasy series, optioning "Temeraire." The historical fantasy series ("His Majesty's Dragon," "Throne of Jade" and "Black Powder War") was written by Naomi Novik.
The "Temeraire" saga reimagines the world of the Napoleonic Wars with the addition of an air force of dragons and valiant aviators. It centers on British naval Capt. Will Laurence, who captures a French ship, where he discovers an unhatched dragon egg in the hold -- a gift from the Emperor of China intended for Napoleon. When the egg hatches, he is forced to give up his naval career to become captain of the dragon he names Temeraire.
" 'Temeraire' is a terrific meld of two genres that I particularly love -- fantasy and historical epic," Jackson said. "I can't wait to see Napoleonic battles fought with a squadron of dragons. That's what I go to the movies for."
Jackson also is looking to take the books into the realm of interactive entertainment.
Novik wrote the first "Temeraire" book in 2004. When Del Rey saw it, the publisher asked for two more books. The series was launched in the spring.
"As I was reading these books, I could see them coming to life in my mind's eye," Jackson said. "These are beautifully written novels, not only fresh, original and fast-paced, but full of wonderful characters with real heart."
Jackson has not yet decided whether he will make one movie or three or if the books can be introduced by other media first.
In that vein, Jackson has optioned Alice Sebold's The Lovely Bones and is writing the adaptation with partners Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens on spec with the intent of speaking to distributors after the script is done. He plans to direct the movie in the second-half 2007.
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