In a sign that the frenzy over comics and graphic novels as source material is reaching a new level, Vanguard Films acquired film rights at Comic-Con to two “graphic novels” that exist only in galley form, according to Variety.  The two are Circus Galacticus, written by Michael Walker, and The Oz Wars, by “an established screenwriter who’s using the pseudonym Dorothy Gale.”  Both were acquired as “works in progress.” 

It’s not clear from the announcement whether or not Vanguard will publish the graphic novels; a division of the company was established for the purpose last year.  If it does, it won’t be using the name “Vanguard.”  An agreement between Vanguard Films and Vanguard Publishing was signed late last year under which any comics or graphic novels published by Vanguard Films will not be released under the Vanguard imprint, to avoid confusion with the existing publisher.