0
0
This news broke months ago but it’s been radio silent until today as Deadline is reporting that A24 is indeed looking to revamp Jean-Claude Van Damme’s iconic martial arts actioner Bloodspot. The studio announced that it has tapped Michaela Coel to write and direct a “fresh take” on the property and she is enthusiastic on tackling the beloved film that is adored by several generations of martial arts action fans.
“I have long been in awe of fighters, and astounded by the discipline, intensity and isolation the sport demands of them. I am excited to explore this world, especially so with A24 as my collaborators. LET’S F*CKING GO,” Coel stated.
Marc Toberoff is set to produce with Alberto Lensi serving as a producer. Stuart Manashil and Peggy DiSalle will serve as executive producers which A24 will finance and distribute.
“In 1988, the now-iconic Bloodsport introduced audiences to the gritty aesthetic of mixed martial arts, and I look forward to bringing back that high-energy tournament format to the big screen again,” Toberoff added.
When word first broke of A24 looking to reboot Bloodsport, I served up my opinion on the news, and it still holds true today. In my original article, which you can read here, I stated:
I’m fine with A24 doing this if they follow my recipe for success. Hire a director similar to the two John Wick pros that were once attached to helm the pic. Hire a cast that is talented in both drama and action so the adrenaline segments can be shot without heavy editing or stunt people and treat the source material with the upmost respect. Oh, and hire a truly talented action designer who can implement fights onscreen that are worthy of the name Bloodsport. That’s it. Simple. Concise and legit. In terms of hiring a lead actor to take over the coveted role from Van Damme. Well, all I’ll say is paging Mr. Adkins. Mr. Adkins please pick up the white courtesy phone. That is all and we shall see what transpires from al, of this.
Sounds simple to me, doesn’t it? Well, it looks like they ignored my first request so color me unimpressed so far. A24 is mostly known for distributing more artistic features so it looks like they are setting their sights on something more adrenaline laced. Coel is both an actress and filmmaker and most recently directed the HBO series May I Destroy You. She is also currently filming the A24/HBO/BBC mini-series First Day on Earth. Along with starring in it, she also is writing, producing and co-directing the project. Personally, my gut reaction says this is a miss in terms of the right filmmaker for the brand and Chad Stahelski and David Leitch should’ve been allowed to do their magic years ago but, hey, what do I know?
Lock “N Load and stay tuned…
