Viola Davis is set to produce the film adaptation of the fantasy series The Untamed, according to a recent Hollywood Reporter exclusive. The story, created by Sebastian A. Jones, unfolds in the Medieval African-inspired realm of Asunda and centers on a man called the Stranger, who has just seven days to avenge the killing of his wife and child. His journey takes an unexpected turn when he meets a young orphan named Niobe, potentially shifting his path from vengeance to redemption.
About the Story and Its Creative Vision
Viola Davis and co-producer Julius Tennon shared their enthusiasm for the project, stating,
“When Sebastian shared this incredible narrative with us over ten years ago, we knew then that the inclusive fantasy world of Asunda would resonate with audiences on a global scale. We believe that everyone is ready for a hero like Niobe, a badass Black woman whom Sebastian has brilliantly crafted to storm the world.”
This highlights their belief in the story’s universal appeal and its powerful female lead.
Director and writer Sebastian A. Jones described his ambitions for the film:
“My goal has always been to create a poetic and cinematic drama wrapped up in a badass vengeance tale with the world at stake. For the setting, imagine the mood of a Spaghetti Western or a Kurosawa epic set in a beautiful and dangerous fantasy landscape.”
This vision suggests a richly cinematic and atmospheric approach, blending genres to create a unique fantasy experience.
Jones and Davis share a history of collaboration; Davis previously contributed a foreword to the 2017 collection of the Niobe spin-off series, Niobe: She is Life, reinforcing her longstanding commitment to the Asunda universe.
Origins and Development of The Untamed
The Untamed: A Sinner’s Prayer was initially created in 2011 by Sebastian A. Jones, Peter Bergting, and Darrell May. It is the first title among various installments set within the Asunda universe and was published by Stranger Comics, a company founded by Jones, May, and Joshua Cozine. Earlier efforts to adapt the story for television included a version developed at HBO with Jones as co-writer and executive producer. Although that project did not come to fruition, it led Jones to connect with Prentice Penny, with whom he launched Payback Entertainment.
Additional Production Details and Future Prospects
The report did not clarify whether Amandla Stenberg, who co-wrote the Niobe comics and inspired the character’s likeness, will participate in the film. Stenberg, known for their recent role in The Acolyte and upcoming voice work in Laika’s Wildwood releasing October 23, is also set to co-star alongside Davis in Children of Blood and Bone, due January 15, 2027.
Other producers involved in the project include Simon Swart, known for Boys Kills World, and Andrew Cosby, co-founder of BOOM! Studios and producer from Homeworld Entertainment and Eureka. Their diverse experience hints at a strong production team backing the film adaptation.
The announcement of Viola Davis The Untamed’s cinematic adaptation represents a significant moment for inclusive fantasy storytelling, centered on a Black female hero with global appeal. The blend of dramatic, cinematic elements with an African-inspired fantasy world promises to expand the genre’s boundaries and attract a wide audience. As production progresses, viewers can anticipate how this ambitious project will bring the rich world of Asunda and its characters to life on screen.
