In 2022, it was revealed that Walt Disney Studios was developing a brand new film for Disney+ based on the best-selling novel, “The Graveyard Book”.

It tells the story of what happens when a tiny baby escapes a murderer intent on slaying his entire family, who would have thought he would find safety in the local graveyard? Brought up by the cemetery’s resident ghosts, ghouls and spectres, Bod has an eccentric childhood learning about life from the dead. But the killer is still on his trail, and danger is coming, not from the dead but from the living… Written by Neil Gaiman, author of Coraline, and illustrated by Chris Riddell, this intricate and deliciously creepy Gothic fantasy tells the story of Bod’s life from babyhood to adolescence. Will he survive to be a man?

The novel was originally published in 2008 and was written by Neil Gaiman.   However, development on the upcoming Disney+ movie has now been put on pause following sexual assault allegations against the book’s creator.

According to IndieWire, a number of factors prompted the decision to pause work on the film, and it’s unlikely we will hear any more about the project while the situation continues.

There are multiple allegations, which were first reported by Tortoise Media, that the “Sandman” creator was accused of sexually assaulting five women. The author has denied these allegations. 

Also recently, Netflix cancelled its series “Dead Boy Detectives,” which was based on Neil Gaiman’s comic book. It is unknown whether the allegations against him played a part in that decision.

The film’s script was written by David Magee, and Marc Forster was set to direct the film.  No cast for the movie have been announced.

Back in December 2022, Gaiman said on Tumblr that he had no involvement with the Disney production.

“You know everything I know. And no, no control or say. Fingers crossed that if they make it, it’s good.”

Roger’s Take: With Disney cutting back on how many projects it makes for Disney+ and refocusing on theatrical releases, there are a number of projects being paused or halted.  Since production hasn’t begun on “The Graveyard Book”, Disney is likely not willing to move ahead while all these allegations are being investigated.

What do you think of “The Graveyard Book” being paused?  Let me know on social media!

Roger Palmer

Roger has been a Disney fan since he was a kid and this interest has grown over the years. He has visited Disney Parks around the globe and has a vast collection of Disney movies and collectibles. He is the owner of What's On Disney Plus & DisKingdom. Email: Roger@WhatsOnDisneyPlus.com Twitter: Twitter.com/RogPalmerUK Facebook: Facebook.com/rogpalmeruk

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