BLOODSPORT: Remake Confirmed At A24, Michaela Coel To Direct The 80s Martial Arts Classic Remake
A reimagining of any kind had been in the works for years to remake the 1988 martial arts action classic, Bloodsport. Additionally, it was last April that Jeff Sneider broke the news of developments over negotiations for A24.
This week, the trades now bring word more than confirming the film’s existence with Michaela Coel (I May Destroy You) as writer and director. She will be joined by Marc Toberoff (Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, Bad Boys: Ride Or Die) who will produce next to Alberto Lensi, with Stuart Manashil and Peggy DiSalle exec producing.
“I have long been in awe of fighters, and astounded by the discipline, intensity and isolation the sport demands of them,” Coel said. I am excited to explore this world, especially so with A24 as my collaborators. LET’S FUCKING GO.”
Bloodsport, directed by Newt Arnold and based loosely on the disputed underworld tournament chronicles of ninjutsu expert Frank Dux, made actor Jean-Claude Van Damme a household name and a leading man in Hollywood for years to come. It also iconicized the pivotal antagonist role of Chong Li, played by Enter The Dragon co-star Bolo Yeung.
In theaters, the film scored $50 million dollars from a $1.5+ million dollar budget, and its success led to several direct-to-video sequels in the 1990s featuring Daniel Bernhardt, and without Dux’s or Van Damme’s involvement.
A24 returns to the sportfighting action genre once more with the pic following films like The Iron Claw and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson starrer, The Smashing Machine. They will distribute and finance the pic.
Read more at Variety.
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