High-Speed Action Set to Hit the Big Screen with Star Power Behind the Wheel
In the wake of box office success for Minecraft and the critical acclaim of HBO’s The Last of Us, Universal Pictures is revving up for its own video game blockbuster. The studio is developing a feature adaptation of Sega’s iconic arcade racer OutRun, with Michael Bay set to direct and Sydney Sweeney producing.
A Powerful Creative Team for a Racing Classic
According to Deadline, Bay will also produce the film alongside Brad Fuller via their Platinum Dunes production banner, which maintains a first-look deal with Universal. The screenplay will be written by Jayson Rothwell, known for action thrillers like Polar and Arachnid.
Sweeney, fresh off producing and starring in horror-thriller Immaculate, joins the project as a producer under her rising production profile. Her growing reputation behind the scenes complements her on-screen success.
Sega’s Legacy Rides Again
First released in the 1980s, OutRun is a legendary Sega franchise that helped redefine arcade racing games. Its blend of fast-paced gameplay and distinctive electronic music gave birth to a new subgenre known as OutRun music. The game’s aesthetic and cultural impact continue to influence retro and synthwave gaming and music communities.
Over the years, OutRun has spawned several home console versions and is still considered one of Sega’s flagship franchises. The adaptation comes as part of Sega’s continued push into Hollywood following its success with the Sonic the Hedgehog series.
Key Production Figures:
- Director: Michael Bay
- Producer: Sydney Sweeney
- Scriptwriter: Jayson Rothwell
- Producers: Michael Bay, Brad Fuller (Platinum Dunes), Toru Nakahara (Sega), Sydney Sweeney
- Sega Oversight: Shuji Utsumi, COO & President of Sega Corp.
Universal’s Track Record with Video Game Adaptations
Universal is no stranger to gaming hits. The studio previously released The Super Mario Bros. Movie (over $1.4 billion worldwide) and Five Nights at Freddy’s (over $290 million). The addition of OutRun signals their continued investment in adapting beloved IPs for theatrical success.
Busy Times for Bay and Sweeney
Bay and Platinum Dunes recently co-produced A Quiet Place: Day One and the thriller Drop with Blumhouse. Meanwhile, Sweeney continues to grow her footprint as a multi-hyphenate talent, also producing the upcoming Christy Martin biopic, where she stars as the iconic boxer.