Thescreescore – Devotees of Brandon Sanderson’s intricate Cosmere universe have received a tantalizing glimpse into the nascent stages of Apple TV’s highly anticipated Mistborn adaptation. The prolific fantasy author, known for his transparent communication with his vast fanbase, recently offered a significant progress report on the project, fueling excitement for what promises to be a landmark cinematic endeavor.
Sanderson, utilizing his popular YouTube channel which boasts nearly a million subscribers, disclosed that the Mistborn film is currently "about 13%" complete. This early-stage figure signifies ongoing, crucial discussions with the studio regarding the foundational elements of the narrative. The primary focus at this juncture is ensuring the unfinished first script will resonate equally with long-time readers and those new to the epic saga, crafting an accessible yet faithful experience. As Sanderson himself clarified, "They haven’t read it yet, ’cause it’s not done."
The journey to bring the Cosmere to the screen began in January 2026, when Apple TV emerged victorious from an intense bidding war among major studios for the rights to Sanderson’s expansive literary universe. Their confidence in Sanderson’s vision is evidently profound, granting him an unprecedented level of creative autonomy—reportedly even more than literary giants like George R. R. Martin have enjoyed in their adaptations. This trust stems from Sanderson’s keen understanding of successful fantasy translations, drawing lessons from the triumphs of Harry Potter and Game of Thrones, while also recognizing the pitfalls that plagued series like The Wheel of Time.
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Mistborn, specifically its inaugural trilogy comprising The Final Empire, The Well of Ascension, and The Hero of Ages, plunges readers into the dystopian world of Scadrial, following a compelling series of heist stories. Beyond Mistborn, the broader Cosmere, including The Stormlight Archive, is also slated for future television adaptations, hinting at a sprawling cinematic universe under Apple TV’s banner.
A distinctive characteristic of Sanderson’s writing, stemming from his membership in the Church of Latter-day Saints, is the notable absence of profanity. This deliberate choice could position the Mistborn and The Stormlight Archive adaptations to appeal to an all-ages demographic, broadening their potential audience significantly upon release.
For eager fans tracking the saga’s development, Sanderson’s YouTube channel and personal website remain the primary conduits for updates. The current projection for the script’s completion is Summer 2026, after which the production phase is expected to commence in earnest, bringing the ash-filled skies and metallic magic of Scadrial closer to the screen.
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