Sleepy Hollow Comic Prequel The Witches of the Western Wood Announced
IDW Publishing, through its IDW Dark imprint, has announced a new prequel comic book series set in the world of Tim Burton’s 1999 gothic horror film, Sleepy Hollow. The five-issue series, titled Sleepy Hollow: The Witches of the Western Wood, will delve into the backstory of the movie’s antagonist, Lady Mary Van Tassel. Created with the approval of Paramount Pictures, the series promises to expand the film’s mythology with a darker and more horrific tone.
Prequel Story Details
The new series will reveal the early life of Lady Van Tassel, who was portrayed by Miranda Richardson in the original movie. Before becoming a vengeful witch, she was known as Sarah Archer. The story will follow her and her twin sister as they endure abuse and neglect, leading Sarah to a fateful encounter with the Hessian soldier at the moment of his beheading. This event ignites her magical powers and sets her on the path to becoming the fearsome witch who masterminds the murders in the film.
According to the official synopsis, the prequel will explore her growing connection with the Headless Horseman. The creative team includes writer Delilah S. Dawson, who expressed excitement about exploring the dark and whimsical world, and artist Jose Jaro.
Release Information and Darker Direction
The first issue of Sleepy Hollow: The Witches of the Western Wood is scheduled to arrive in stores on May 6. Pre-orders for the issue are currently open and are due by March 30. This announcement follows IDW’s previous comic series, Return to Sleepy Hollow, which was a sequel set 15 years after the film’s events.
Riley Farmer, an editor on the project, stated that Paramount Pictures has been a supportive partner, allowing the creative team to push the story into darker territory than the film. Farmer teased that the Horseman’s first ride will be a captivating and gruesome highlight for readers.
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