Variety reports that comic publisher Top Cow has purchased the rights to Fallen Angel, a science fiction/fantasy action script by writer William Zide. The deal, which Variety calls a 'low-six figure' agreement, is the first sale for Zide. According to Top Cow's head of development, Chris Carlisle, Fallen Angel 'fits perfectly into Top Cow's model of franchise management: Developing 'high concept' worlds and franchiseable characters that have commercial potential on multiple entertainment platforms.' The deal gives Top Cow full rights to Fallen Angel for publishing, broadcasting, and feature films.
The Miltonian premise of Fallen Angel concerns an archangel, booted out of heaven for leading a rebellion. Unlike Satan, however, the protagonist of Fallen Angel attempts to redeem himself with good works here on earth.
The interesting twist in this acquisition is that instead of just pitching comic properties to Hollywood, Top Cow is obviously looking at certain types of screenplays from non comic sources that the publisher feels have potential across several media, including comic books. Just as many comic/pop culture retailers have diversified their product mix, publishers like Top Cow are now thinking in terms of multi-media potential rather than just solely about publishing.
