“Wanted” is a gripping graphic novel that has captivated readers with its thrilling storyline and unique characters. Written by Mark Millar and illustrated by J.G. Jones, this comic series takes readers on a wild ride through a world of assassins, secret societies, and hidden powers. In this article, we will delve into the comic summary of “Wanted” and explore its transition from page to screen.
Comic Summary of “Wanted”
In the world of “Wanted,” superheroes are not the heroes we typically envision. Instead, they are villains ruling the world from the shadows. The story centers around Wesley Gibson, an ordinary office worker who discovers that his father was a member of a secret fraternity of assassins known as The Fraternity. After his father’s murder, Wesley is recruited into the organization and begins his training to become an assassin himself.
As Wesley learns the ways of The Fraternity, he discovers a hidden power within himself that allows him to bend bullets, granting him incredible accuracy and precision. With his newfound abilities, Wesley embarks on a journey of revenge, seeking to avenge his father’s death and uncover the truth behind The Fraternity’s sinister plans.
Movie Summary of “Wanted”
In 2008, “Wanted” was adapted into a thrilling action film starring James McAvoy as Wesley Gibson. The movie follows the basic premise of the comic, but with some notable deviations. In the film, Wesley is portrayed as a disenchanted office worker who is recruited by a secret society of assassins called The Fraternity. Led by Sloan (played by Morgan Freeman), The Fraternity uses their unique abilities to carry out assassinations to maintain balance in the world.
The movie takes viewers on a visually stunning journey filled with high-octane action sequences and mind-bending plot twists. While the film differs from the comic in certain aspects, it still captures the essence of the original story and delivers an exhilarating cinematic experience.
When and Where Does “Wanted” Take Place?
Both the comic and the movie of “Wanted” are set in a contemporary world that closely resembles our own. The story takes place in various locations around the globe, as the assassins of The Fraternity carry out their missions in different countries. From the bustling streets of Chicago to the ancient cities of Europe, “Wanted” offers a diverse and visually captivating backdrop for its thrilling narrative.
Film Locations of “Wanted”
The film adaptation of “Wanted” utilized various locations to bring the story to life. One of the most memorable settings is the city of Chicago, where Wesley’s journey begins. The filmmakers also ventured to Prague, Czech Republic, to capture the old-world charm of The Fraternity’s headquarters. Other notable locations include Istanbul, where an intense car chase takes place, and New York City, where the final climactic showdown unfolds. The use of these real-life locations adds an authentic and immersive quality to the film.
Who’s Who in “Wanted”
“Wanted” introduces readers and viewers to a cast of intriguing characters. Wesley Gibson is the protagonist, a meek office worker who transforms into a skilled assassin. Sloan, the enigmatic leader of The Fraternity, serves as Wesley’s mentor and guide. Other key characters include Fox, a deadly assassin played by Angelina Jolie in the film, and The Repairman, a mysterious figure who provides the assassins with their specialized weaponry. Each character brings a unique dynamic to the story, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.
Memorable Quotes from “Wanted”
- “This is not a comic book. This is real life.”
- “The only person you can trust is yourself.”
- “We do not train to be merciful here. Mercy is for the weak.”
- “The truth is a matter of circumstance. It’s not all things to all people all the time.”
- “Kill one, save a thousand.”
Soundtrack by Danny Elfman: Bio and Other Works
The soundtrack of “Wanted” was composed by the renowned musician Danny Elfman. Known for his ability to create atmospheric and captivating scores, Elfman’s work perfectly complements the intense and thrilling nature of the film. With a career spanning several decades, Elfman has delivered memorable compositions for numerous films, including “Edward Scissorhands,” “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” and “Spider-Man.” His ability to capture the essence of a story through music is evident in the “Wanted” soundtrack, which further immerses viewers in the world of assassins and secret societies.
Curiosities about “Wanted”
- The comic series “Wanted” was originally published by Top Cow Productions in 2003.
- The character of Wesley Gibson was visually modeled after rapper Eminem.
- The film adaptation of “Wanted” grossed over $341 million worldwide, solidifying its success.
- Director Timur Bekmambetov brought his unique visual style to the film, incorporating innovative techniques and stunning visual effects.
- The bullet-bending ability showcased in “Wanted” is a fantastical concept that adds an element of excitement and spectacle to the story.
Tips for Cosplay and Dressing like Wesley and Sloan
For fans looking to cosplay as their favorite characters from “Wanted,” here are some tips to help you achieve the desired look. To dress as Wesley Gibson, opt for a sleek black suit, white shirt, and a red tie. Complete the look with a pair of black sunglasses and a tousled hairstyle. For Sloan, choose a more formal attire, such as a tailored suit in dark tones, accessorized with a pocket square and a stylish tie. Don’t forget to bring along props like sleek firearms and knives to fully embody the characters.
Mark Millar and J.G. Jones: Bio and Other Works
Mark Millar and J.G. Jones are the creative minds behind “Wanted.” Millar, a Scottish comic book writer, has made significant contributions to the industry with his unique storytelling style. Some of his other notable works include “Kick-Ass,” “The Ultimates,” and “Kingsman: The Secret Service.”
J.G. Jones, an American comic book artist, has collaborated with various publishers and writers throughout his career. In addition to “Wanted,” he has worked on titles such as “Final Crisis,” “Black Widow,” and “Y: The Last Man.”
5 Best Works by Mark Millar and J.G. Jones
- Kick-Ass – This groundbreaking comic series follows the story of Dave Lizewski, a teenager who becomes a real-life superhero despite having no superpowers.
- The Ultimates – Millar and Jones reimagined Marvel’s Avengers in this critically acclaimed series, bringing a fresh and modern take on the iconic superhero team.
- Kingsman: The Secret Service – This spy thriller comic features a secret organization of British agents and spawned a successful film franchise.
- Superman: Red Son – Millar and Jones explore an alternate reality where Superman’s spaceship landed in the Soviet Union instead of Kansas, resulting in a different path for the Man of Steel.
- Wanted – Of course, “Wanted” itself deserves a spot on this list. Its gritty and dark approach to the superhero genre offers a unique and captivating reading experience.
5 Other Media by Timur Bekmambetov
- Night Watch – This supernatural thriller follows the battle between light and dark forces in modern-day Moscow and is the first installment in Bekmambetov’s “Watch” trilogy.
- Day Watch – The sequel to “Night Watch,” this film expands upon the supernatural conflict and delves deeper into the intricate world created by Bekmambetov.
- Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter – Based on the novel of the same name, this action-packed film presents a fictionalized account of President Abraham Lincoln’s secret battle against vampires.
- Ben-Hur – Bekmambetov directed the 2016 remake of the classic film, bringing his unique visual style to this epic tale of revenge and redemption.
- Profile – This found-footage thriller tells the story of an investigative journalist who goes undercover online to expose a terrorist recruiter.
10 Similar Movies to “Wanted”
- John Wick – This action-packed film follows the story of a former hitman seeking vengeance after his dog is killed.
- The Matrix – Set in a dystopian future, this movie features mind-bending action sequences and a protagonist discovering his hidden powers.
- Kill Bill: Volume 1 – Quentin Tarantino’s martial arts revenge film showcases a skilled assassin seeking retribution against those who wronged her.
- A History of Violence – This crime thriller delves into the hidden past of a seemingly ordinary man, revealing a deadly secret.
- Atomic Blonde – Charlize Theron stars as a British spy navigating a web of espionage and betrayal in 1980s Berlin.
- Sin City – Based on Frank Miller’s graphic novel, this neo-noir film tells interconnected stories of crime, corruption, and vengeance.
- Oldboy – A man seeks revenge after being inexplicably imprisoned for 15 years in this South Korean thriller.
- The Dark Knight – Christopher Nolan’s gritty take on Batman explores the duality of heroism and villainy.
- The Bourne Identity – This espionage thriller follows an amnesiac agent as he unravels the truth about his past.
- V for Vendetta – Set in a totalitarian future, this film follows a masked vigilante fighting against a repressive government.
Book Club Questions for “Wanted”
- How does the concept of villains posing as heroes challenge traditional superhero narratives?
- What are some of the moral dilemmas faced by Wesley Gibson throughout his journey?
- Discuss the role of The Fraternity in maintaining order and balance in the world of “Wanted.”
- How does the bullet-bending ability add a unique twist to the action sequences in the story?
- In what ways does the film adaptation differ from the comic, and do these changes enhance or detract from the overall experience?
10 Similar Novels to “Wanted”
- Villains by Necessity by Eve Forward – In a world without heroes, a group of villains must join forces to save their world from destruction.
- Soon I Will Be Invincible by Austin Grossman – This novel explores the lives of superheroes and supervillains as they navigate personal struggles and face off against each other.
- Ex-Heroes by Peter Clines – In a world overrun by zombies, a group of superheroes fights to protect what remains of humanity.
- Watchmen by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons – Widely regarded as a masterpiece, this graphic novel deconstructs the superhero genre and presents a complex and morally ambiguous world.
- The Boys by Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson – This gritty comic series follows a CIA-backed team tasked with monitoring and, if necessary, neutralizing superheroes who abuse their powers.
- Vicious by V.E. Schwab – In this dark tale, two former friends-turned-enemies with extraordinary abilities face off in a battle of revenge and power.
- Wearing the Cape by Marion G. Harmon – Set in a world where superheroes are a reality, this series follows a young woman who gains powers and becomes a superhero herself.
- Blackbirds by Chuck Wendig – This urban fantasy novel features a protagonist who can see how people will die by touching them, leading her into a world of danger and dark secrets.
- Renegades by Marissa Meyer – This young adult series explores a society ruled by superheroes and supervillains, blurring the line between good and evil.
- The Reckoners by Brandon Sanderson – In a world where superpowered individuals have become villains, a group of ordinary humans bands together to take them down.
Parent Guide for “Wanted”
While “Wanted” offers an exciting and thrilling story, it is important for parents to be aware of its mature content. The comic and film both contain graphic violence, strong language, and adult themes. Parents should exercise discretion when determining whether “Wanted” is suitable for their children. It is recommended for mature audiences who can handle the intense action and darker elements of the story.
Buying Guide and Gift Ideas for “Wanted” Fans
For fans of “Wanted,” there are several collectibles and merchandise options available to enhance their enjoyment of the series. These include:
- Graphic Novel: The original comic series is a must-have for any fan, allowing them to experience the story in its original format.
- Movie DVD or Blu-ray: Owning a copy of the film adaptation allows fans to revisit the action-packed world of “Wanted” at any time.
- Action Figures: Collectible action figures of the main characters, such as Wesley Gibson and Sloan, make great display pieces for fans.
- Art Prints: High-quality art prints featuring iconic scenes or artwork from the comic or film can add a touch of “Wanted” to any fan’s wall.
- T-shirts and Apparel: Show off your love for “Wanted” with stylish t-shirts, hoodies, and other apparel featuring the series’ logo or artwork.
Conclusion
“Wanted” has cemented its place as a thrilling and captivating story that has transcended its comic book origins. With its unique take on superheroes and its gripping narrative, “Wanted” has captured the imaginations of readers and viewers alike. Whether you dive into the pages of the comic or immerse yourself in the action-packed film, the world of “Wanted” is sure to leave you on the edge of your seat, craving more of its dark and exhilarating storytelling.