Jacques’ Redwall books to be adapted by Netflix

Brian Jacques’ Redwall book series is on course for a feature film and series, following a deal struck between Penguin Random House Children’s UK and Netflix. 

An animated feature film based on Jacques’ first book in the series, Redwall, is currently in development with writer Patrick McHale, as well as an event series based on the character of Martin the Warrior.

Netflix acquired full screen rights to the series, marking the first time that the film rights to the entire collection have been held by the same company, and the first time a feature film of any of the Redwall books will be made.

The books chronicle the adventures of heroic animals in the forest haven of Redwall Abbey. The first book, Redwall, was originally published by Hutchinson in 1986. The series has over 20 titles. 

Ben Horslen, fiction publisher, Penguin Random House Children’s, said: "We couldn’t be more delighted to announce this deal. These perennially popular stories have been etched onto the hearts of millions of readers, and we are thrilled to partner with Netflix to bring those beloved characters on screen for families worldwide to enjoy."

Alan Ingram, representative of the Redwall Abbey Company and the owner of Jacques’ intellectual property, commented: "Brian often travelled the globe to tell his Redwall stories to young audiences, more often than not at their schools. Brian would have been very happy to see that Netflix shares his joy and desire to bring his stories to life as a new universe of films, series and potentially much more for audiences of all ages to enjoy. We are very excited to embark on this new endeavour with Netflix and Penguin Random House UK."