Summary

The firstWatchmentrailer for the new two-part animated adaptation of theDCcomic has been released. Announced last year,Watchmen Chapters 1&2will adapt the comic storyline created by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons. This comes 15 years after the release of the live-actionZack SnyderWatchmenmovie, and 5 years after the franchise’s HBO drama series, which more loosely adapts the comic source material.

Warner Bros. Entertainmentreleased theWatchmen Chapters 1&2teaser trailer, which can be viewed below.The trailer showcases the 3D art style of the new movie series, and reveals how theupcoming DC moviewill depict iconic characters like Rorschach, Doctor Manhattan and The Comedian, as well as several crucial story elements from the original comic:

Rorsharch sat in front of a city in the Watchmen animated movie trailer

The Watchmen Animated Movies Look Like The Most Comic Accurate Adaptation Yet

While the decision to depict theWatchmenuniverse in 3D may draw some criticism from those hoping for it in 2D,the impending two-partWatchmenmovie series may prove to be the most accurate adaptation of the iconic story yet.​​​​​​Snyder’s iteration showed the heart and spirit of the series admirably, but had to face the unavoidable complications involved with believably moving the world and many of its still larger-than-life story elements to live-action. This meant some aspects of the series had to take more of a backseat - with some big moments appearing only in the later Ultimate cut.

The animatedWatchmenmovies have no such constraints, however, due to not needing to be one lone release. Similarly, the decision to split the series into two parts means that time which could otherwise need to be dedicated to building to a single feature-length experience can instead be used to flesh out the world as closely to the original as possible without it affecting pacing. Notably, the animated movies also aren’t imposed upon by CGI budgets or limitations, instead being able to draw on the creativity and talents of its artists to depict its most dramatic and eye-catching moments.

Watchmen 1 Cover DC Comics

Watchmen

In an alternate history where superheroes are real and significantly impact global events, the franchise delves into the complexities of morality, justice, and power. Starting with a graphic novel, it introduces a world where vigilantes face government crackdowns. Central characters, including Rorschach, Dr. Manhattan, and Ozymandias, navigate a plot involving political conspiracies and personal dilemmas. Subsequent adaptations, including films and a TV series, expand the narrative, exploring the legacy of the original heroes and the societal repercussions of their actions, blending past and present to address contemporary issues.