The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen

During a tense global crisis that could spark a full blown war, a disparate band of literary legends is recruited to stop a mastermind threatening world order. Allan Quatermain, Captain Nemo, Mina Harker, Dorian Gray, Tom Sawyer and other famous figures are pulled from their fictional corners to work together with real world intelligence operatives. They learn a cunning adversary plans to unleash chaos by exploiting political factions, technological marvels, and dark secrets from the past. The mission demands cunning, teamwork, and weapons both modern and old, as they manage rivalries and uneasy alliances. With time running out, they confront difficult choices about loyalty, duty, and the cost of heroes. Their mission forces them to confront old grudges and redefine what it means to be a hero.

Directed by Stephen Norrington, The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen released in 2003. It adapts Alan Moore and Kevin O'Neill's acclaimed comic series with James Robinson contributing to the concept. The film blends pulp adventure with a glossy action aesthetic.

It earned 179,265,204 worldwide against a 78 million budget, ranking as a moderate hit for its ambitious ensemble. The figures reflect solid international sales even as critics debated its approach. It also did strong overseas business.

Its sets and wardrobe influenced later adaptations. The movie sparked talk of crossing classic legends on screen and drew a dedicated, if divided, fan following. Its visual style and ensemble cast left a lasting impression for fans of comic book adaptations, though many critics felt the execution missed the mark. Its sets and wardrobe influenced later adaptations.

Critics were mixed, praising ambition while faulting tone and pacing. The film wrestles with power and responsibility, the ethics of using legends as weapons, and the tension between idealism and cynicism when old heroes face a modern threat. Some viewers note the clash between source material and screen bravado.