The Fall Guy director David Leitch is currently in negotiations to helm Netflix's upcoming Gears of War film adaptation. Leitch, known for directing high-octane action films like Atomic Blonde (2017), Deadpool 2 (2018), Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw (2019), and Bullet Train (2022), is reportedly in talks to bring Microsoft's popular third-person shooter to the big screen.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Leitch would produce alongside Kelly McCormick and Gears of War developer The Coalition. The screenplay is being written by Jon Spaihts, who previously worked on Dune and Doctor Strange.
Netflix's Gears of War Project Gains Momentum
Nearly three years after acquiring the rights to Gears of War, Netflix appears to be moving forward with production. Along with the live-action film, the streaming giant is reportedly developing an adult animated series set in the same universe. The success of these projects could potentially lead to more Gears-themed content.
The burning question remains: who will portray series protagonist Marcus Fenix? Former WWE star Dave Bautista has been extremely vocal about his desire to play the iconic soldier, even receiving endorsement from Gears co-creator Cliff Bleszinski.
The Golden Age of Video Game Adaptations
Video game adaptations are currently experiencing unprecedented success, with films like The Super Mario Bros. Movie, the Sonic franchise, and upcoming Minecraft movie breaking box office records. Other notable adaptations include Uncharted, Mortal Kombat, and various Resident Evil projects.
Microsoft's Continued Commitment to Adaptations
Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer recently confirmed the company's commitment to video game adaptations, despite the mixed reception of the Halo TV series. In March, Spencer stated that Microsoft is learning from each project and gaining confidence in the adaptation space.
"We're learning and growing through this process," Spencer said. "We'll undoubtedly have some misses, but that won't stop us from moving forward with more adaptations for the Xbox community."
Meanwhile, The Coalition continues development on Gears of War: E-Day, a prequel to the main series which currently has no confirmed release date.
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