Netflix Orders 'Barbaric' Fantasy Series Based on Vault Comics Hit
Netflix greenlights Barbaric, turning the Vault Comics hit about a cursed warrior forced to fight only for good into a fantasy series. Features a talking axe sidekick and dark humour in this redemption tale coming to UAE screens.
Netflix has officially ordered Barbaric, a fantasy series adaptation based on the popular Vault Comics title. As reported by Variety, the announcement came during Netflix's upfront presentation to advertisers, confirming the streamer's continued investment in comic book adaptations alongside their growing slate of fantasy content.
Key Takeaways
- Netflix has given a series order to Barbaric, a fantasy adaptation based on the Vault Comics title.
- The series follows a cursed barbarian named Owen who can only use violence for good, accompanied by his talking axe and a witch named Soren.
- Sheldon Turner and Robert Rovner serve as co-showrunners and executive producers.
- The comic was created by writer Michael Moreci and artist Nathan Gooden.
- No official release date has been announced yet for the adaptation.
What is Barbaric actually about?
According to Netflix's official logline, Barbaric follows "a ruthless and crass barbarian cursed to only use his violence only for good, which sends him, his talking axe and a young witch on a road of self-discovery, redemption and revenge."
The series centres on Owen, a formerly bloodthirsty warrior who finds himself magically bound to use his combat skills only for noble purposes. His companion is a talking axe that serves as comic relief, while he teams up with Soren, described as a mysterious and troubled witch. It's essentially a redemption story with fantasy elements and dark humour baked in.
With Barbaric, the "cursed barbarian with a talking axe" concept could be fun and distinctive for Netflix, while also risking becoming too campy or cliché if the humor and violence don't balance with strong character depth and a grounded emotional core.
Who's behind the Netflix adaptation?
The creative team includes some notable names from both television and comics. Sheldon Turner (Up in the Air) serves as writer, executive producer, and co-showrunner alongside Robert Rovner (Supergirl), who brings experience from DC's television universe.
The original comic was created by writer Michael Moreci and artist Nathan Gooden for Vault Comics. Executive producers include Jennifer Klein, Barry Jossen, Tana Jamieson, Javier Grillo-Marxuach, F.J. DeSanto, Damian Wassel, Sam Claflin, Luke Carroll, and Michael Stevenson.
Interestingly, word of a Barbaric series first surfaced in 2024, when it was expected to star Sam Claflin and Patrick Stewart. However, no actors have officially signed on to the current Netflix version.
How does this fit Netflix's fantasy strategy?
Barbaric joins Netflix's expanding fantasy portfolio, which includes adaptations like The Witcher and Shadow and Bone. The comic book angle is particularly relevant given the success of properties like Umbrella Academy and Sweet Home.
With Barbaric, the comic's bold humor and fantasy style make it an exciting fit for Netflix, while past adaptation issues raise concerns about tone shifts and uneven storytelling if it's not handled consistently. The talking axe element could either become a beloved character trait or feel forced depending on the execution.
Netflix continues to bet heavily on book and comic adaptations, particularly in the fantasy genre where they've found both critical acclaim and substantial viewership numbers.
When and where to watch in UAE
No official release date has been announced for Barbaric yet. Given that Netflix just ordered the series, it's likely still in early development stages.
When it does arrive, UAE viewers will be able to stream it on Netflix without regional delays, as the platform typically releases original series globally on the same day. Arabic subtitles are usually available for Netflix originals, though dubbed options vary by title.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Netflix's Barbaric series releasing?
There is no official release date announced yet for Netflix's Barbaric adaptation. The series was just ordered, so it's likely still in early development stages.
Who created the Barbaric comic?
The Barbaric comic was created by writer Michael Moreci and artist Nathan Gooden for Vault Comics. The original comic serves as the source material for Netflix's adaptation.
Who is involved in the Netflix Barbaric series production?
Sheldon Turner and Robert Rovner are co-showrunners and executive producers. Other executive producers include Jennifer Klein, Barry Jossen, Tana Jamieson, and several others including Sam Claflin.
What is the plot of Netflix's Barbaric series?
The series follows Owen, a cursed barbarian who can only use violence for good. He's accompanied by a talking axe and teams up with Soren, a troubled witch, on a journey of redemption.
Written by
Subscribe to our newsletter
Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest updates and news
Member discussion