Transnational Adaptation of a Marvel comic book event: the case of X-Men: ‘fatal attractions’ in Finland

Abstract

<p>This article focuses on the transnational adaptation of Marvel’s superhero comics. Investigating how a particular form of storyline, the comic book event, was altered for publication in Finland provides new insight into transnational comics publishing. The article demonstrates how adaptation changes the nature of comics storylines, as pieces are selected from the vast source material, and a full range of characters and stories is never granted for the new audience. Marvel’s 30th anniversary event for its mutant themed comics, ‘Fatal Attractions’, included spectacular features, such as collectable wraparound covers with holograms, and a story that involved all the X-titles. When it was adapted for the Finnish audience, ’Fatal Attractions’ lost most of the qualities that made it an event. Through an analysis of the choices made in the adaptation process, as well as the Finnish adaptation’s paratextual elements, this article brings a new perspective to the study of transnational adaptation of comics.<br /></p>