James Marsters is the only actor who I can picture as Harry/Eric. He is an incredible actor no matter who he portrays! He is the only one I will accept as Harry/Eric.

Ugh! I got about halfway up the page and got tired of reading, mainly because it was the same thing basically over and over again. However, being me, I can't help but put my two cents in.

I am thrilled that the Dresden Files is making its way to the screen (silver or otherwise). Not at all thrilled about the very prospect of James Marsters playing Harry. I never liked him in Buffy or Angel, I found him rude and too sarchastic...but then that's just me. I haven't listened to the books on tape, but rather discovered the books on the last day of the School Library being open, then spent the early summer vacation furiously hunting around for an alternate method of aquiring them. And what the freak is wrong with SciFi! I personnaly am a little obsessed with nomenclature, and as such I put a lot of stock in names. I simply cannot, I repeat CANNOT fathom this character with a hard, sharp name like Eric. Harry is sufficiently soft with a dark, almost slurred pronunciation that encapsulates this character well.

I think we would all do well to remember the almost certain fate of all books made into movies, miniseries, etc. There is always the possibility of a beloved story being torn to shreds and reassembled hapahazardly as a live-action eye sore. We should probably watch this December's production of Earthsea to see just how well SciFi handles literature before we get too excited.

And just to note, one person made a comment about the quality or lack thereof of SciFi's Creature Features. The fact is, they're just that. The movies created at SciFi are a blatant attempt to revitalize the old moster movies the execs grew up watching. So says my WIRED magazine interview with the guys who write this stuff. They operate under a few rules: The monster must appear in the first 8 or so minutes of the movie, the characters must be in grave danger, and there has to be some menial attempt to explain it, although, the explanation doesn't have to be logical or even remotely possible. They only want a little adrenaline buzz and some classic monster movie experiances. THEY AREN'T TRYING TO MAKE BRILLIANT MOVIES, THEY JUST WANT KICKS.

I think that summs up my rant. I'm prone to those. Sorry to be so long winded.

Of course James Marsters would be a perfect Harry (Erik) Dresden. He is an incredible actor, and to many of us he IS Harry!

I think a great actor to play Harry Dresden would be Vincent Spano, Zophael in the movie Prophecy 3. He has the hungry look and he fits the description of Harry from the novels. Especially after Grave Peril.

Yes James Marsters is pretty but the boy can also act. And as far as playing an playing an intimidating character, Harry would be a sinch after playing Spike aka William the Bloody. James Marsters is Harry (I still won't call him Eric) Dresdon!!!!!!!!

I never saw any similarities between Harry Dresden and Harry Potter. Why do people keep bringing that up? Sure, they're both wizards, but the Dresden files are not a "modernized Harry Potter." Changing the lead character's name is just another nod to rampant legal submission. Other than bringing Jim Butcher lots of money, that he so richly deserves, I wish the series would never be made into TV tripe. I have no idea who James Marsters is. Unfortunately, I picture a "pretty boy." In my opinion, Harry Dresden would be a much more ominous and intimidating presence than the books lead him to be. Remember when he showed up at the picnic in Blood Rites. He's no Hollywood girly-boy.

James Marsters would be perfect he is the reason I first noticed the books. Picked up the audio's because of his voice and waiting no so patiently for the third

"I have to say that it seems to be taking an awfully long time for this project to happen. Does anyone have any updates?"

No updates. I do have to say, though, that if you're saying things like "it seems to be taking an awfully long time", you've got some pretty unrealistic expectations of how long it takes something to get off the ground in Hollywood. I'm personally not expecting to see anything happen with this, really and truly, until mid or late 2005, at the earliest.

I cannot imagine ANYONE but James Marsters playing Harry. He's got the talent, the attitude, the intellect, the wit, the style and huge sex appeal. A stellar actor, all 'round. So many of Harry's (and James') fans already assosciate Harry with James' voice from hearing the Audio Book. He seems a natural choice. One can only hope the SCI-FI Channel studio execs and producers see it the same way.

Looking forward to any new news on the development of the film. I'm excited to see it, and to buy it, should the DVD become available in the future. Congrats, Jim!

I have to say that it seems to be taking an awfully long time for this project to happen. Does anyone have any updates? I still love the idea of James Marsters as Harry (Eric-arrrg). I just can't picture anyone else. I also agree that Keanu Reeves was not a good choice to play Constantine. Ironically a poll was taken before production of the movie ever happend and James Marsters was the top choice.

it's about time more fantasy was bought to tv but i wish they would stick more closly and faithfully to the books.

Boy the change in the name is a minus - though I am sure to watch the movie. I mean the whole pt is that he was named after 3 professional Stage Magicians - Though Erich was Harry's real name - I guess it sort of still makes sense but the stage names are better

Lyr

While this is great news and I hope it gets done soon, I'd love to see this on HBO or Showtime (Dead Like Me is awesome baby!). I sure hope they shoot a rated-R version that gets edited down for Sci-Fi and released unedited on DVD.

Real people curse, "real" bad-guys blow-up, real people have intimate relationships.

Perhaps the researchers turned up the fact that Harry Houdini's real name was Erich Weiss. Other than that, perhaps JK Rowling, who has scads of money and bloodthirsty barristers at her command, might take exception to another 'Harry' out there.

I am ambivalent about James Marsters being Dresden, I think there are other actors who could do just as well.

It is not as bad a job as casting Keanu Reeves (sp ?) as Constantine, but let's not go there. It's not a pretty place.

I have to agree with the others,,, Although I am only in the 3 book, I think of the series,, more or less a Adult version of Harry Potter, only More graphic,, and Violent. Changing the characters name I can see a point, but, still you want more credit to the books I would keep the characters name,, because say if someone wants to buy the books,, they're going to say Who's Harry Dresden,, etc.

Personally speking also I think James Marsters can easly pull off Harry Dresden, he did it almost as he was Spike -Buffy the Vampire Slayer ,, leather duster,,, minus the white hair.

Ok, yea uh.. the Erik thing has got to go. Wonder where they got that?!
About freakin time they decided to run a pilot for the Dresden Files.
And if James Marsters was cast as Harry, it would bring in the Buffy Fans, Marsters fans, Angel fans, and anyother fans of scifi-fantasy works that Buffy and Angel and the like incorperate.
This series may also bring in the Harry Potter fans as well, so I see it as a WIN/WIN deal for the studio and producers!
Please SCIFI, make The Dresden Files your new series!!!!

Good move by the Sci-Fi channel in picking up on the idea of a Dresden Files TV show ... however - a big black mark for changing his name !!! I will hold my judgement on how James Marsters fares in the role ... I never envisage Harry Dresden being anything like James Marsters, but James is a great actor so it will be interesting to see how he does.

Definitely KEEP the Name HARRY!! Good Grief.
Julian McMahon(Cole Turner,source of all evil on Charmed) would be great as the Well dressed,sophisticated Marcone.
Jim Marsters has enough presence to pull off Harry-and hiring Shorter co-stars would help!
Patrick (?) from the old AVENGERS series or Darren Mc Gavin would be Great as Ebenezar.
Susan is gonna be tough to cast-she Needs to be SHORT(Barely 5'),Smart,Assured,attractive in a low keyed way-she needs to be "strong" enough
to be believable as a female cop in charge of the "boys" club.
CAT

Okay, I've already posted elsewhere on here about this very topic before I saw this posting. But I've got to repeat myself here. First of all, Erik? No way! Yuck! Sorry. I guess they are trying to steer clear of the Harry Potter thing but take it from me, Harry Potter fan or not, no one is going to care if 'Harry' Dresden gets to keep his name ... except the fans of Harry Dresden that is, whose feelings will be ambivalent at least, furious at worse.

Second, I love James Marsters and his work but he is not Harry Dresden. Personally, I think Vincent Ventresca would make a great Dresden. He's got the height, and the right kind of attitude and he's already done some great work for the sci-fi channel. Maybe his appearance isn't quite as gritty as one might imagine Harry to be, but hey, that's the magic of television, and I'm sure a look could be put together for him. I think here 'attitude' is all important and I can't think of another actor to suit. Not saying my opinion counts and it's the only one but right at this moment no one else springs to mind.

But whatever they do - PLEASE, let the character keep his own name!

while i really like james marsters... i have to say that he is a bit short for the role dont you think??? Dresden is suppose to be around 6'6 and also some one in their thirties would be able to pull off the cyncism just a bit better. I think James is a great actor but this needs to be more of a character role with physical resemblnce needed to really pull it off.

.02cents

Erik? What the ....? I don't care if it is Houdini's first name, it's not Dresden's! OK, so Harry may suggest Potter to some, but Erik has connotations too, y'know. I was so excited to hear that they were making this, but if this is the sort of petty nonsense they are worrying about, I'm rapidly losing interest.

Is there any news as to whats going to happen at Sci-Fi yet?

Okay first of all I think it's just fabulous that someone is putting Dresden on screen. But I don't think they should have changed his name to Erik. The author wrote it as Harry and I've gotten used to it, and yes I know it's because Houdini's real first name is Erik but still I object loudly about it.

I think that the idea of having Anthony Stewert Head as the voice of Bob is bloody brilliant!!!!!!!And as always I think that James Marsters is Harry/Eric Dresdon. I will accept no substitute!!!!!

I was not aware that Houdini's real name was Erik. I must admit, knowing this does make the name more appealing. I also have to agree with Nick regarding "Bob" Anthony Stewart-Head really would be great for that part. James Marsters would still make the best "Dresden". I am 32 years old and love to read but don't have the time lately. The audiobooks are wonderful!! I can't wait for Grave Peril. Of course it is James' voice that keeps me coming back; otherwise I would just have to wait until I had the time to read the books. Thank again, keep up the great stories!!

-Angel

There are a few things that I want to say.

1) James Marsters makes a great Harry on audio and would make a great Harry on screen.

2) Erik was the real name of Harry Houdini.

3) Since many of us support the idea of James Marsters, why don't we stick to the Buffy theme and put Anthony Stewart-Head as Bob. He would be great.

Wow.

I personally just picked up the books on a whim on vacation, then after reading the first book, gobled up the rest like snack cakes. I personally always saw
-->HARRY<--- Dresden as Bruce Camble. The evil dead character is exactly how i pictured harry to be. I really could'nt see the SciFi channel screwing up this. I LOVED the Taken series, and was amazed at how much better they made the Fox show "sliders."

As for worring about budgets, i haven't seen a mini series come out of their studios look less than a block buster movie. WOOOT for SciFi for such awsome taste in books!

I absolutely love James Marsters and he is the reason I initially purchased the "Storm Front" and "Fool Moon" audiobooks. The stories are wonderful, and now I associate Harry Dresden and his voice with James. It's a shame to change "Harry's" name to "Eric" however it is your story. I think it's a great idea for James to play the role of Harry/Eric. On television, height can be deceived so bring it on! I'm a huge fan.
Great Job!! Thank you.

Angel.

a few things

1) Erik, ick thats foul, sounds lame.
2) congrats on getting the whole deal. it will be some that is, hopefully, good to watch in this era of nothing to watch.
3) Love the books, just finished Blood rights.
4) RIGHT FASTER!!!!

K

Glad to hear this way to go Jim. I'm not sure about James as Harry, but he does do an awesome job on the audio, so i'll give him some slack. as for other characters in the series not sure about many and I know he is a bit old but how about..... ahhh mind blank Riker from The Next Generation?

I have to add my vote for James Marsters as Harry/Erik. Not only has he helped develop interest in the series by doing the audio versions of the first couple of books, but he has the acting chops to pull it off. The height? Big deal. He would also be an excellent choice for the Sci-Fi channel as he would undoubtedly bring in a significant Buffy/Angel following, including a demographic that is underrepresented on the Sci-Fi channel--women 18-35 (and older).

Erik? What happened to Harry?

Okay here is the thing: (1) LOVE HARRY DRESDEN (2) James Marsters would be wonderful as Harry - okay fine a bit too short but we all have imaginations - plus since hearing the clips of the audio books it is James voice I associate with Harry - plus he is the reason I even heard of Jim's work because Obviously I'm a big James Marsters fan. (3) James did not play Cyclops that was James MARSDEN. (4) I'm very excited that this series is in the works! Thanks

I would like to add my support to those who have been asking for James Marsters as Harry Dresden, Erik Dresden, Percy Dresden, or even Aristotle Dresden! As long as it's the lead role in the Dresden series, I'm sure the name change and height difference will be convincing if the incomparible Mr Marsters is playing the part.

That said, I have another casting suggestion: John Billingsley as the voice of Bob.

John currently plays the role of Dr Phlox in Star Trek Enterprise, and has worked with James Marsters on Angel, The Series in the role of Dr Royce in the episode, Unleashed. Also, coincidentally, both James and John have run successful theatre companies in Seattle, and both have extensive theatre experience.

It is John's voice that I have heard in my head, even through James' reading, and I believe he could do the required accent to perfection.

Just have a listen to the Enterprise doctor, and tell me what you think!

Love, the Landlady.

Have JM play Dresden and I will watch and also buy the DVD's when they come out. Plus any role anybody thinks that Bruce Campbell could do only better. Plus he did an Andromeda that was meant for BC and IMHO he played it better and I am a BC fan. But I want James Marsters as Dreden.
Thanks

In the note about a possible "Dresden" series, why is Harry's name Erik? Is it a relaltive or did they change it all together?

yah JM would be great for it even with the height issue it will be a great cult series heres to a good book and a hopefully good miniseries cheers

Why is there no updates on this project? It's been months since the news broke about the Dresdon telemovie on Sci fi and yet there are no new details about this project. Has anyone heard anything new? Also I want to once again stress how badly I want JM to play this role. He is the one who I have pictured in my head as Harry (don't make me call him Erik) Dresdon!!!!

This is great news re: proposed Sci-Fi series.... two comments: 1) Why change the name to Eric Dresden - Harry is a great first name for a wizard! and 2) I propose another actor for the role of Harry Dresden - Michael Weatherly, who played Logan Cale on the Dark Angel series! Somehow, I have always pictured him in this role.

Never read the books. Reminds me a bit of the Donaldson series'.

No offence, and yet, the "starcon" fandom I think may be premature.

Personally, I'm a Kurt Vonnegut reader.

Just a quick note.....
James MARSTERS played Spike on Buffy/Angel - James MARSDEN played Cyclops on X-Men/X2....
My opinion - JAMES MARSTERS ROCKS!!! I have always seen him as Harry Dresden!

Has anyone eard more about the future of Harry/Erik I can not fing anything elsebut qhat is here and the Sci-Fi website does not say much.

Man. I knew I should be checking up on this like any true fan. I'm a huge supporter of Marsters as Dresden, despite the height difference. And btw, James was not Cyclops. Anyway, I would also love to see Morena Baccarin as Susan. I have a list of my dream cast, but honestly, this would be wonderful. Gotta disagree with the name change, but I'll go wherever the name Dresden follows. :)

I have no problem with JM playing Dresden. He'll do an excellent job with the character. After all, having done the audios, JM has some experience with just who Dresden is.

Congrats Jim. I'm looking forward to reading all 20 of those Dresden Files you have tucked away someplace. Now, on to the new series.

JM looks young. He is the only one I picture when I read the books. And there is no use me watching it with another actor because no matter who it is they will never measure up to what I picture in my head!

James Marsten as Harry? No way! He's too old (42)
and too short (5'10") and in danger of killing his
career if he should take the job!
Name me one actor who has broken out of the
sf/fantasy/horror genre ghetto in the last 40 years
and has achieved superstardom (other than Harrison Ford)! Sarah Michelle Gellar does not count...she is a long way from superstardom!
JM has played Spike for years and he was also
Scott "Cyclops" Summers in X-MEN/X2 and now all
of you people want him to take on the role of
HARRY DRESDEN! He will be type cast and locked
into the sf/f/h ghetto and will never be able to
get a part of any significance in a mainstream
project. Some bunch of fan-friends you guys are!
Let the casting directors EARN their loot...they did
good with Shatner, Nimoy, Sorbo, Jayne Heitmeyer, Lisa Ryder, and numerous others so
let's just see how close they can actually come to
the real HARRY.
Think it might be better to bombard Sci-Fi channel
with letters of protest about the name change to
ERIK (how disgusting).
Looking forward to BLOOD RITES and hoping that
all those who got turned on to the DRESDEN FILES
will investigate other authors in the genre...
GLENN COOK's series dealing with GARRETT and
the city of TUN FAIRE (read St. Louis)...
P.N. ELROD's VAMPIRE FILES... and SIMON R. GREEN's novels of the NIGHTSIDE...as well as
RANDALL GARRET's series about the best of them
all...LORD DARCY!

Congrats, great news, looking forward to it.

Hi all, remember me? I was the one heading a small campaign to get The Dresden Files in my local bookstores. It worked! I now own all titles up to date. However, my campaign is not done. I want the audio tapes. Just and update. Also, I reread my post from April 15, and made an error, I ment to state that the Buffy movie was aweful (sorry to those who loved it). More to the subject, still on the look for the SciFi edition of The Dresden Files. And hoping to see my idol, James Marsters as 'Erik'. LYLP (love ya like pancakes) all.

Ashe vs. Spike?
Hhmmm.....
Interesting.

Both have qualities that make me thing either should be able to do a good job.
But I can't see Marsters being a dork, and Campell having a love scene where he doesn't go "Gimme some sugar..." would be odd too.

Ah well,
I'll wish it all good luck and SciFi channel doesn't screw up a good thing.

James Marsters is the only actor I see as Harry. Nothing against Bruce Campbell, but he is not a leading man!

A comment was made earlier that they thought Bruce Campbell would make a great Harry. oops, "Erik". I agree. Bruce Campbell has the ability to have the same smart-alecky self-deprecating humor going on with his characters that I have always loved about Harry. The humor that is used in the series is one of the things that I really love about it. I will be very happy if this series actually comes to fruition and stays true to the books!!!!

Obviously, this is good news. I'm excited about seeing a HD miniseries, but it could also be really painful if they mess it up. The name change definitely irks me, expecially after everything in the books about how names are so important... I really can't see our Harry as "Erik." I'm also kind of scared as to what they'll do with Marcone... Here's hoping they're very careful with the casting. Good luck Jim!

I think this is great news . While I was reading "Full Moon" I kept thinkning what a fantastic movie it would make. My biggest concern is that as a t.v series would it have a good enough budget to pull off the effects needed to create Harry's world?. I'm not crazy about the name change but it wouldn't put me off watching, I have all my male friends hooked as they claim Harry is very addictive. The studios need to be careful that when they get someone to write and direct it , it is someone who loves the books as much as the fans so as not to "butcher" the stories. Still..... fantastic news, I wait with bated breath, if done well this could easily replace Buff/Angel for all those heartbroken fans who have nothing left to watch. Bring it on, soon.

dear all,
me and my gf love the books and are eager to see how the transition from book to screen takes place. all i can say is congrats to Mr.Butcher.
Peace, lane

All Dresden fans who would like to see James Marsters cast as Harry or Erik (whomever) I think it may help if we bombarded SCI FI's programming dept with our opinions.

program@www.scifi.com

Never know...could help.

JM is Harry/Eric Dresdon! Enough said!

Murphy... eyecandy for Harry... must kill...

We already know who most people want Erik as, but I'm wondering about the voice of Bob and who'll act Thomas. They are putting them in right? *Must kill someone if they don't*

Here's hoping that JM gets this part. Except does Nick Cage have a lock on it?

If he gets it I will certainly watch it. And probably end up buying all the books.

I still am in the vast majority that thinks JM is HD/ED. Peter Wingfield is a great actor (loved him as Methos) but he seems to mature for the character (I don't mean old)and while I am a fan of his I do not see him as Dresdon. James Marsters is the only reason I even started reading the books. I picture him in these stories and will accept no substitute!

Like many other people, I found out about the books because of James Marsters. But that wasn't the reason I started to read them and liked them. I've always been a fantasy fan. I love Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett and I also like the Harry Potter books.
I was really happy to find the Dresden books and love they way they're written. I love the use of metaphors in the descriptions and the humour.
I'm feeling a bit nervous about this TV series. It can be great but if they're already changing the name of the character what else are they going to change?
I'd love to see a tv show of the books but I just hope that it's done right.
As for James Marsters in the role, he said recently he was going to audition for the role but that didn't mean anything in Hollywood. So he hasn't been offered the role, just asked to read for it.
Well, I'll keep my fingers crossed.

Hmm, I hadn't thought about Peter Wingfield, but now that you mention it, he'd be great. He even looks almost exactly like the poster version of Harry (I refuse to call him Erik in hopes the the Sci-Fi Channel will regain it's sanity!).

On the other hand, I wouldn't mind seeing James play it either. Decisions...

Really, the casting I'm the most worried about is Murphy. It could be done very badly. If the casting director gets it in his or her head that Murphy is a piece of eyecandy that plays an obvious attraction to Harry, the fans (myself included) will revolt.

Marsters would be good for the role but for some reason I can't picture him with a beard. In fact I see Harry/Erik as Jim more than Marsters, despite the voice acting :/

And yeah, I've seen Troy too, which in my opinion is horrid, they barely stayed true to the Illiad. Plus Brad's attempts at thoughtful looks are nothing more than furrowed brows and attemping to look good. Bloom acted too... nobly, for lack of a better word. I really hope that the Dresden Files, TV show is NOTHING like Troy.

My 2 cents...the comment above, "My vision of Harry is of a tall, lanky, dark haired, bumbling guy, who is heroic in spite of himself." immediatly brought the face of Bruce Campbell to mind. You know, Brisco County, Jr., Army of Darkness, Bubba Ho-Tep, etc...You gotta love this guy. I wouldn't pick JM just because of his physical stature.

Just to throw another name in the ring - while everyone and their brother keeps saying James Marsters will be Dresden, I have always thought that a better choice would be Peter Wingfield - Methos from the "Highlander" TV series. He has a better "indeterminate age" look, lends gravity to the role and would could really sink himself into the role instead of Marsters having to re-invent himself in a different role. Its tough for an actor to stay in a similar genre, yet play it differently - just look how out of place Orlando Bloom looks as Paris in "Troy" as compared to his role of Legolas in the "Lord of the Rings" movies.

Thoughts on Wingfield?

Is what I have been reading true? Or did Harry (Eric) Dresden just walk by my window and make my computer glitch and show me this delightful fantasy? No mean feat for Harry that I am on the fifth floor! Fantastic and overwhelming is what comes to mind. Congrats Jim on the success. Personally I could see James as one of the upper eschelon of the Vampire houses in the later books. Whoever it is I can't wait to see them in a sky blue tux and false fangs. Who could play Michael, I wonder? I can't wait to find out.

The talk is great here and I agree with most people here that James Marsters would be a great Harry/Eric Dresden. One of the other people I could see as Harry/Eric is Seann William Scott. He has a height of 6'2' (Closer Harry/Eric than James) and has the right kind of attitude.

Great news!

Umm, The problem with James Marsters playing Dresden is his height. JM isn't quite 6', Dresden is, what?, 6' 6" or near abouts?

Yeah, I know. Not a lot of 6' 6" actors out there.

Yeah ok, I have to agree that JM needs to play the part of ED/HD, especially since he is growing his hair dark again..... MR. BUTCHER!!! SINCE THIS IS YOUR SITE, I HOPE YOU ARE READING THESE COMMENTS ABOUT WHO SHOULD PLAY WHAT CHARACTERS!!!!! Anyway, I hope they keep Harry as his name, If it changes, it won't really be the same! that would be like changing (I'll use spike since its most familiar) Spike's name to Mario or something! it just isn't right!!!!!
hmmmm, to play susan, hmmmmm.... i just can't picture anyone playing her part, perhaps Cathrine Z Jones, but that would be fetching at a great distance...... The wolves would be easy, Michael.... someone with a buzzcut just seems appropriate... anywho..... thats all for now

au revior

no name change please ... many Harry's ... books are outstanding ... as for potter 3rd time charm??? i doan no

Julian McMahon is the actors name. Before nip/tuck he was on Charmed. He would make a great Marcone. And although I have already said it, I want James Marsters to play Eric/Harry Dresdon!

I would like to see Marcone played by the guy that sleeps with all the women off of Nip/Tuck. I think he would be a good choice.

I'd love for James Marsters to be cast as Harry/Eric. He's the only reason I read the books in the first place.

Now that I've stopped screaming and dancing around the room... FANTASTIC NEWS :-D Congratulations, Mr. Butcher!!!!!!!!!! I absolutely can not wait!

I think that we have established that most of us want JM to play the part of Eric dresdon in the movie, myself included! But any ideas on who should portray some of the other characters? Such as Marcone,Susan, Michael ect.

First up- congratulations to Jim for writing the books and for choosing James Marsters to read them on audio, I mean Wow!! You did choose him right? And second, Erick Dresden! it doesn't really have the same ring to it does it? But who cares as long as JM gets the role. But the downside is JM is under WB contract for two years, oops!! And what do you mean JM is too old!! Oh please.

I am really looking forward to this! I have to agree that James M. did a fabulous job with the audio books and he would be wonderful in the role of Erik!

The Crows characters name was Eric Draven: not Dresdon. Again I would like to convey my wish for JM to play the part of Harrry/Eric Dresdon.

Erik Dresden? Wasn't that the name of The Crow when he was alive? I'm pretty sure it's close. I don't think they need to change the name since Harry's called by his last name most of time in the books.
My vote is for Marsters too. I heard a sound clip of him reading the first book and thought he was great. He's really good at being sarcastic and snarky.

JM is Harry Dresdon. He is an incredible actor with great range. He no longer has the blonde locks as he shaved his head for charity and now has his dark hair growing back. I just can't see anyone else playing this part! He is who I picture as Harry when ever I crack open one of the books! I even printed out a copy of a Harry sketch with JM face and I use that as my book mark.

It is great to see that Sci-fi channel is going to be doing a movie. I just don't thing they should be changing the name from Harry Dresden.

I've read all the Dresden Files books and must say
that I cannot picture James Marsten...Spike! Yikes! ...as HARRY. I cannot think of the actor's
name right now but the guy who played Scott Summers aka CYCLOPS in the X-Men movies would
be a better physical choice, and if Thomas Janes
were younger he would be perfect for the role.
Surely, there is someone out there who is better
than Spike! Yikes!

As for the character's name change the people over at Sci-Fi need to wake up and smell the coffee! Its always better to stay as close to the
source material as possible in these kinds of projects. Staying close to your sources keeps the
fan base happier and less critical, I think, and for
the comments on Sci-Fi's own boards they need to
keep HARRY's fans happy so they will watch the
show. I mean really, a network that is still producing thinly disguised 50s monster/disaster
movies...and pretty bad ones at that...needs to
clean up its act and pay attention to source material and the source material's fan base.

I was a James Marsters fan before I became a Harry Dresden fan but I can't think of a better actor to play Harry than James. The reading of the audio books proves that he is perfect for the part. Let's just pray that they keep the name Harry instead of Erik.

Josh Duhamel has alot of the 'right stuff' to be good casting for the role of Harry/Eric. He's got the height (6'2", bout the closest we can probably get), the coloring, the acting range *IMO* and he's in his early 30's.

I would really love to see this series made, however, James Marsten would not be my first choice in actors. I have never "heard" any of his Dresden book renditions, but have read all of the books so far. My vision of Harry is of a tall, lanky, dark haired, bumbling guy, who is heroic in spite of himself. Whoever ends up playing Harry/Eric will have big shoes to fill. I will look forward to seeing this series no matter who ends up in the starring role.

As a Chicagoan who has been reading the Dresden files for a few years, I am thrilled. Hopefully they won't change the city, in addition to the name. Wait a minute, hopefully they'll actually FILM it here instead of in Vancouver or Toronto. Nothing against those cities, but I'd like to see some actual lakefront and skyline.

Joss Whedon did create the movie of BTVS but 20th century fox did a hack job on it , which is why Joss was so greatful to get a chance to do the series his way! Also JM is a great actor. A recent critic said that the reason that he gets the best lines on Angel is because he delivers them like Shakespeare and not a Hallmark card (this was also a shot at DB(Angel) who the same critic says needs to know that there is more to acting then furrowing his brow and glowering).James would make a perfect Dresdon ( no matter what the first name is- although I still think that they should just use the name Harry)!

amber, your comments joss wheaton creating "buffy" the movie are totally incorrect. wheaton only created the television series, which was far better than the movie. as for james marsters being a lousy actor, well i would have to disagree. he is one of the main reasons that "buffy" the series has become a cult classic.

I love this series of books, and I'm keeping my fingers crossed that Hollywood will be able to do it justice. However, the name change really doesn't bode well, in my opinion. Changing someone's name is a huge departure, and 'Erik' Dresden just doesn't do it for me. Just one more example of clueless Tinseltown arrogance. If they'll change something as basic as his name, they'll change anything, and I'm afraid they will lose Harry's brave, cranky, quirky, bullheaded, and brilliant voice in the process.

I am very excited about "The Dresden Files" pilot, and I really want to see this succeed! Congratulations to Jim Butcher - he must be on cloud nine over this. Just hope this gets fast-tracked so we see it sometime next season. I've been writing to Saturn Films, Lions Gate, and SciFi Channel to express my support for the project.

I'm enjoying "Grave Peril" very much, as well, and looking forward to the new book this summer too!

James Marsters is the only actor to play this role. He is such a great actor and can play anything! Plus so many of us already picture him in the role, as we read the books. I'm not sure I would bother to watch a movie about this character if another actor played the lead part, because they couldn't measure up to the picture of Harry/Eric that I have in my head! Also the name change is not necessary since Dresdon is nothing like Potter!

I don't know that Jim is "pushing" James as the guy to play Eric Dresden, but it was certainly James' experience with the audio books that helped the series to take off, and Morgan Gendel learned about the books from James when he was doing guest voice work for the MTV Spider-Man series. So if Jim's saying "hey, James would work", if anything it's gratitude. :)

You know, I was really kinda skeptical when I heard that Jim was pushing J.M. for Harry's part. I never was a fan of Buffy, but I dont watch a lot of TV. But I suppose I'll go and pick up the audio for Storm Front before I really decide its a bad idea.

Otherwise I love the books and always will. Harry is my hero. ^_^ I's so excited about seeing it come to love. The name change was like "eh" but I understand and support anything Jim supports (its his story after all and he knows whats best) to see it on screen.

Cant wait!

I have just gotten into the Dresdon File books. I became interested when I heard James Marsters name linked to them. Now I have just finished the 5th book and am hooked. I love the idea of there being a movie and having James Marsters in the lead role of Eric (don't call me Harry) Dresdon. I already picture him as I am reading the books.

I can't wait!! I have been hooked on this series. However Jim what's his is name would not be my first pick for the title role. He doesn't look anything like Harry is described in the books, and whoever says his acting skills are great is a moron. Also I'm not happy about the name change, but if it's necessary I'll accept it just to see this happen.

James Marsters' audio of STORM FRONT got me interested in the books, but the books were marvelous. I cannot picture any other actor other then James Marsters to play the lead. He has captivated fans on both BTVS and ATS and has an incredible fanbase. To everyone involved in this project, JM is the perfect choice and a definite win for you who want to make this movies and possible series a success. Where JM goes...we will follow.

Congratulations James Butcher!!!

Love the Dresden series. The news is wonderful. As a huge fan of James Marsters and his audio recordings of the series, it is my belief that he would be a great asset to the production. Not only are his acting skills over the top and complelling,but he also brings a huge and devoted fan base to everything. IMHO it would be a win/win for the series to have him.

My gut tells me that we won't see the movie for another 6-12 months. They've *just* started in on this project, after all. Even fast-tracked, I wouldn't expect to see it until the fall.

oh my gods! lol not only am i relly really looking forward to it i know mom will be! i got her hooked onto this series so she'll looooove to see it as a mini series!

is there any more news on this? like when do they think maybe it would show?? i dunno how long it takes to make a mini series....hrm....

also-who's james marster? did i get that right?? dunno him.dont watch buffy or angel...sorry...don't beat me up okay???

Oh, wow...dying...hyperventilating...wow! I so cannot wait. I have to admit, I am a huge James Marsters fan, and he is the only reason I got into the Dresden Files. Since then though, I have been getting more and more into the books. Unfortunately, my mum's a bit of a nazi when it comes to ordering things online, so I have to buy them from stores which...well, so far, no store will carry the books. So I'm currently heading a very small campaign where I get everyone I can to call the book stores around here once a weekish requesting the books. Sooner or later, they should start carrying the publisher (here's to hoping). Jim, congrats! Me also, not crazy about the name change, but I totally understand it and have no problems excepting it. But don't fall into the same problem as Joss Whedon! Don't let the big-wigs take over your vision. Be a part. Ever wondered why Buffy the Vampire Slayer movie was so much better than the show? Joss Whedon (creator) had little say in the movie, but was there all the way for the show. STAY THERE JIM! AND GOOD LUCK! You have me hooked weather James Marsters plays or not!

This is great....just great! The books are more than worthy of being turned into a series, and I look forward with the greatest pleasure to viewing The Dresden Files.
And may I suggest that James Marsters would be the perfect Eric? I am a fan of the audio book(s) narrated by James...as far as I am concerned, he IS Harry/Eric. I cannot see anyone else in the role, James has made it so much his, already.
Add to this the fact that James Marsters has a HUGE fan base from BtVS and Angel already in existance and willing to follow him ANYWHERE, and what more could SciFi channel ask?
Here's looking forward to seeing The Dresden Files AND James Marsters.

I've never heard of this character or these books but I'm very interested. I love to watch things like Buffy and Angel and now that Angel is cancelled (still hoping for a miracle) this sounds like something I'd be very interested in checking out, especially if James Marsters is in it. Not to mention all the Buffy/Angel fans that will be looking for something to fill the void and if JM gets the part, I can see a following taking place.

Congradulations!

And what I would like to see actor wise would be a guest appearance by Darren McGavin as fellow Chicagoan Karl Kolchak... just a cameo, but... I think he'd understand Harry.

The Auld Grump

CONGRATULATIONS, JIM!! terrific news! you will have to get writing the rest of the Dresden Files now... i await your next book with great anticipation, i have loved all the others. i too was brought to your books by James Marsters and was delighted to hear him read ALL the book, not some abridged readers digest version. He made your stories come alive and count the books translated so far as treasured possessions. Here's hoping James will eventually read them all!!
Don't understand the proposed name change but as long as it gets made, i'll be happy. Perfect time to do the pilot/series or whatever, technology has progressed to the point where it will do the Dresden Files justice and i can't wait! i can only hope the producers are smart enough to ask James Marsters to play the part - here's hoping.
Good luck, Jim and more power to your writing arm!! xxxx

he is in his mid 30s and besides james lookes really young so he would be perfect

I love the idea of JM in the role, though would watch regardless of who plays. Regarding the post above - I thought Harry was in his mid-30s?

WOO HOO!! Congratulations Jim! Awesome news! I can't wait to see how it turns out.

Yeah! I'm so excited. I too started reading Jim Butcher's books because of James Marsters. I think he would do a wonderful job portraying Harry/Erik. None the less if he doesn't get it Good Luck Jim!

As much I like JM and think he did a great job with audio books (and on Buffy and Angel), I just don't picture him as Harry. (Of course, maybe this "Erik" Dresden will be a different character, though the name change thing really bugs me.) He doesn't have the right build (Harry in the books has about a foot of height on him) and he can't really pass for a 20-something anymore.

Someone earlier mentioned the name change thing for Highlander, but the TV series was about a different character than the movies, hence the change.

That being said, this is great news and I anxiously look forward to seeing this.

Congratulations, Jim.

I read about this in April (and Iago's) journal and I just wanted to say I'm very proud and happy for you.

Wishing you all the best.

James Marsters was the reason I started reading the Dresden Files. As I'm reading the books I'm always picturing the main character as him. I couldn't imagine anyone else portraying Harry! Marsters would be perfect in the role. Please consider him.

this is such great news!! wooohoooo!!! although i have to agree that i don't "feel" the name change... best of luck and not it is definite that i am getting cable... i have to watch this!

I bought the first book/CD that James Marsters read. I immediately bought the books. It is a great, great story and the character is intriguing and endearing.

I think James Marsters should play Harry Dresden. He fit the character very, very well.

This is so amazing! Oh I can't tell you how happy this makes me.

Believe me, all the major JM forums are gearing up for a new campaign! Whether JM gets cast or not, it's a great way to promote him and the Dresden Files.

I would be over the moon to see JM as Harry. And no, I don't care for the name change either. Erik is not a lovable name the way Harry is. I can understand wanting to distance themselves from that other magical Harry, but jeez. I want my Harry Dresden!

Hey guys, don't forget, you're preaching to the choir, here, but this is just Jim Butcher's site -- there's hardly any chance that calls for James posted here will make it to the folks making the judgement calls at sci fi. You'll have to investigate alternate routes for that...!

Please have James play Eric, after reading the books and listening to the audio I think the part was written just for James.

well since every studio cares about ratings then James is the best because he has the buffy/angle fans which would easily bring like 3 million ppl or 5 as in the first few angel eps. and sci fi highest rated hsow is Stargate sg1 whihc brings in 2 million ppl. soo umm its like a gold minde. and James is probably all the readers first choice anyways so he should do it.

yay im soooooo happy

Great going Jim!! You kept hope (along with us) all along that this would happen and I will always support you (as long as you keep us in Dresden/Codex books!)

I think it's also fate that AtS was cancelled and now James is kinda free... *wink*

Think there are a lot of Marsters fans around here? Sheesh. Nothing against him but who knows what TPTB have in mind. Jim Butcher has no say in casting. Apparently he has little to say in naming the character. Still, it would be nice to see Marsters in the role. He sure aced the audio books.

This is just fabulous news! Congrats to Jim Butcher - the books deserve to be told in a series, and I, for one, will watch faithfully. Also, I do hope that James Marsters will get snapped up to play Harry... er, Erik, I guess. I love his reading of "Storm Front" and "Fool Moon", so if anyone is to play Harry, James Marsters is the one to do it! He would be perfect for the role! Plus he has expressed interest in the part - so, Saturn Films and Lions Gate, take note, please!

This is the best news!!! Made my day to hear that there is a possibility for quality TV! After reading the books and hearing James Marsters incredible reading of the first two books - I can only hope he is first in line for the part! He would bring such intelligence and passion to the role! Not to mention, the man can ACT! With him in the part I WILL watch! I'm not crazy about the name change, but I understand why they went there. Just have to say YIPPE SKIPPY!

Big Woo and Hoo!! I am so excited, even with the name change! Yes it would be nice if the name stayed the same, but I'm just happy that there's finally progress!!

I hope the series would stay true to the books.Almost all books are spoiled on being made movies.The exception being lord of the rings.James Marsters would make a wonderful Harry..er Eric.I wish sci-fi would collaberate with axn or starworld and show the series in India too.

James Marsters is free since ANGEL's cancellation.
I Love his reading and hope he's considered for the role.

Killed Galactica? Gotta respectfully disagree. Loved the miniseries, looking forward to where they go with the next step.

And changing character names in order to make a translation to television? Gee, that was an awful idea. Sure screwed the Highlander series out of going anywhere...

oh, wait. :)

They're changing it to "Eric" to avoid Pottermania? EXCUSE me? And Sci-Fi, who frickin' KILLED Battlestar Galactica?

What the Farkleheimer are they thinking?

Magicians named "Harry"...mmmmm....why didn't they tell Rowling to "change that Potter kid's name; can't have any of Houdini's relatives suing us!"

Does this mean that ALL creative works featuring magic AND characters named "Harry" must change the name, as Magic Harry-people must forever be inextricably linked to Potter? The train never breaks down when Harry Potter gets on board; when Cousin Dudley got a videogaming platform in the most recent HP book [I forget if it was XBOX or Playstation], it didn't burst into sparks when Harry came near...heck, the INITIALS aren't even the same [H.P. versus H.D.]!!!!

The report of the go ahead for filming of a Dresden File Series is spectacular news and it makes my day. I have enjoyed Jim Butcher's books and am very pleased that they will be bringing that world to my television screen in the near future. I would be even more ecstatic if they would also consider James Marsters for the role of the main character.(Harry/Erik) In my opinion he is one of the most talented and expressive actors out there today. I loved his reading of the first two books. He makes you truly care about the characters. I admit Mr. Marsters has me beguiled. I know that if he were to be in this production, it would be #1 on my must watch list each week. I hope TPTB will make this sci-fi fan happy.

Fan-Dang-Tastic! Congrats to everyone involved in this step...and yes...THINK JAMES! JAMES NEEDS WORK! JAMES HAS FANS! JAMES IS BRILLIANT!

I hope they give him the same chance they would give a "big name" star because believe me James will draw a bigger crowd for this work than he did for Angel (many of his fans, myself included actually stopped watching AtS when Spike's story arc was trashed out of Buffy...we wanted a Spuffy ending and we wanted Angel to be an independent series...we were ignored and left). If we had stayed onboard the AtS ratings would have been closer to 5.2 as they were in the first James Eppy (which I and my ilk watched).

And seriously, move away from the height issue...I don't think anyone but the hardest core pre-James...Dresden fans will care once they experience Marsters in the role.

Rabid/Raeann

This is the best news I've heard in a long time--good to see that interesting genre programming isn't dead, just moved to the cable networks. James Marsters would make an absolutely fabulous Harry, and with his current series ending, the timing is perfect. I hope the producers realize this and snap him up right away.

Brilliant news! Here's hoping James Marster's is 1st in line to play Harry... I mean Erik (I won't get the hang of that... Harry Blackstone Copperfield Dresden rolls off the tongue better than Erik Dresden!). I hope the film doesn't differ too much from the books.

Congratulations!

After reading the first book, one of the first things to enter my mind was this could be a great movie, the other was Good Lord was that a good read. I just hope that it isn't as bad the I, Robot adaptation. I almost cried in frustration when I saw the trailer. Anyway, good on ya Jim and keep the good words flowing.

Wow, this is just stunning news! I've just been listening to Fool Moon on audio-CD and it's great.

I really like the fluid language Jim uses and the imagery, plus the reading that James Marsters does is fabulous!

To have the two of them collaborate (Jim's words, James' acting abilities) would truly be more than wonderful.

WoW, or in the words of my sister "Groovy".
I can understand the name change, but it will take time to get use too. Im such a Harry addict. Gonna love it, can wait.

Great news! What would make it absolutely perfect would be to hear that James Marsters will star as Harry/Eric....

This is extremely good news. I think this will be another cult classic such as Buffy, Angel, Farscape etc. James Marster would be perfect as Erick Dresden and a logical choice because of his large fan base.

Sweet! I'm really looking forward to this.

K

Yep, Erik. It's Harry Houdini's *real* first name (different spelling), and it lets the series distance its character a bit from Harry Potter.

EriK Dresden? Is Sci-Fi changing Harry's name? Or was that just a typo? After all there is power in a name.

All I can say is woot!

The press releases' description of the general plot seems a bit...off, but maybe thats just to attract the non-rabid fans out there.

Soon to be rabid, I think would be more appropriate.

This is great! Dresden Rules! I hope that Sci Fi channel gets behind this all the way. James Marsters would be a great Dresden.