Meaning: Mark Millar, a prominent writer in the comic book industry, made this statement to express his astonishment and gratitude for the overwhelming success of his comic book series, "Wanted" and "Chosen." The quote reflects Millar's surprise at the positive reception and mainstream attention his work has received, as well as the swift adaptation of his series into movie deals. To provide context and a deeper understanding of the quote, it is necessary to explore Mark Millar's background, the impact of his works, and the significance of securing movie deals for his comic book series.

Mark Millar is a Scottish comic book writer known for his work on various iconic comic book series, including "The Authority," "The Ultimates," "Kick-Ass," and "Kingsman: The Secret Service." With a career spanning several decades, Millar has established himself as a prolific and influential figure in the comic book industry. His unique storytelling style, compelling characters, and penchant for exploring unconventional themes have garnered him a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.

The quote references two specific comic book series, "Wanted" and "Chosen," which have significantly contributed to Millar's success and reputation as a writer. "Wanted," illustrated by J.G. Jones, was first published in 2003 and quickly gained attention for its dark and gritty narrative, subversive take on superhero tropes, and morally ambiguous characters. The series follows the story of Wesley Gibson, a disaffected office worker who discovers a hidden legacy as the son of a supervillain and is recruited into a secret society of super-villains. "Wanted" received widespread acclaim for its boundary-pushing storytelling and unconventional approach to the superhero genre.

Similarly, "Chosen," illustrated by Peter Gross, was published in 2004 and delves into the story of Jodie Christianson, a seemingly ordinary teenager who discovers that he is the new messiah. The series explores the challenges and responsibilities that come with being a chosen one, while also addressing themes of power, faith, and destiny. "Chosen" further solidified Millar's reputation for crafting thought-provoking and unconventional narratives within the comic book medium.

The quote also highlights the significant achievement of both "Wanted" and "Chosen" being snapped up as movie deals before the completion of their respective series. This is a testament to the commercial and creative appeal of Millar's work, as well as the confidence of film studios in the potential for successful adaptations. Securing movie deals for comic book series not only amplifies their reach and impact but also validates the storytelling prowess and marketability of the original source material.

The adaptation of "Wanted" into a feature film in 2008, directed by Timur Bekmambetov and starring James McAvoy, Angelina Jolie, and Morgan Freeman, further propelled Millar's work into the mainstream. The film's success at the box office and its distinctive visual style contributed to the elevation of Millar's profile and cemented "Wanted" as a significant entry in the comic book adaptation landscape.

Similarly, "Chosen" being acquired as a movie deal underscored the enduring appeal of Millar's storytelling and the potential for his work to resonate across different forms of media. The prospect of seeing Millar's imaginative and thought-provoking narratives brought to life on the big screen generated anticipation among fans and further solidified his standing in the entertainment industry.

In conclusion, Mark Millar's quote encapsulates his genuine surprise and gratitude for the mainstream publicity and movie deals that his comic book series, "Wanted" and "Chosen," have garnered. It reflects the impact of his work on popular culture, the unique storytelling elements that have captivated audiences, and the validation of securing movie deals as a testament to the commercial and creative appeal of his creations. Mark Millar's success exemplifies the enduring power of comic book storytelling and its ability to transcend mediums, captivating audiences across the pages of a comic book and the screens of a movie theater.