Michaela Coel to Reimagine ‘Bloodsport’ for A24
A24 has tapped Michaela Coel to write and direct a reimagining of the 1988 martial arts classic Bloodsport, starring Jean-Claude Van Damme. The announcement confirms reports that surfaced earlier this week.
Coel’s Vision for the Remake
Coel, known for her critically acclaimed series I May Destroy You, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, “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.” [Deadline]
About the Original ‘Bloodsport’
Released in 1988, the original Bloodsport launched Jean-Claude Van Damme to international stardom. The film follows Frank Dux (Van Damme), an American Army officer trained in ninjutsu, as he competes in the underground Hong Kong tournament known as the Kumite. He battles the formidable Chong Li, played by Bolo Yeung. [MSN]
Previous Attempts at a Remake
This isn’t the first attempt to revisit Bloodsport. A remake was previously considered in 2013 by Relativity, with V for Vendetta director James McTeigue attached. [Deadline] The original film spawned three sequels – Bloodsport II: The Next Kumite (1996), Bloodsport III (1997), and Bloodsport 4: The Dark Kumite (1999) – none of which featured Van Damme. [Deadline]
Coel’s Current Projects
Coel is currently in production on the A24/HBO/BBC mini-series, First Day on Earth, which she wrote, executive produces, co-directs, and stars in. She will also appear in A24’s Mother Mary, directed by David Lowery, alongside Anne Hathaway, and Stephen Soderbergh’s The Christophers with Ian McKellen. [Deadline]
Production Details
Marc Toberoff will produce the Bloodsport reimagining, with Alberto Lensi also serving as a producer. Stuart Manashil and Peggy DiSalle will serve as executive producers. [Deadline] Toberoff noted the original film’s impact, stating, “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.” [Deadline]