Extraction’s Sam Hargrave to Helm Adaptation of Iconic 80s Action Video Game Shinobi

Extraction's Sam Hargrave to Helm Adaptation of Iconic 80s Action Video Game Shinobi

As a seasoned movie-buff with decades of film-viewing under my belt, I can confidently say that the news of Sam Hargrave directing the live-action adaptation of Shinobi has me more than a little pumped! The man behind the high-octane action of Extraction is just the right person to breathe life into this beloved 80s video game.


Previously a stuntman who has since become a director, renowned for his work on the Netflix action series Extraction, is poised to breathe life into a cherished Sega video game on the silver screen. As reported by THR, this filmmaker is linked to lead the adaptation of the action-packed game Shinobi. Hargrave appears ideally suited to bring this ninja story to live-action, and he has been assigned to direct this adaptation of Sega’s legendary franchise. Ken Kobayashi (Sunny, Move On) will be adapting the screenplay for Universal Pictures.

At present, there isn’t much information available regarding the upcoming ‘Shinobi’ movie. However, securing the director of ‘Extraction 2’ promises an adaptation that aligns with the current wave of successful video game adaptations, which are often a rarity. The original game was released in arcades as far back as 1987, and it revolves around Joe Musashi, a contemporary ninja who battles against a terroristic organization named Zeed that has been abducting students from his clan. Throughout its fourteen-game series, which includes spin-offs, the ‘Shinobi’ franchise has emphasized high-octane and gritty action. The latest installments, ‘Nightshade’ in 2003 and ‘Shinobi 3D’ in 2011, returned to the side-scrolling format that made the series popular. A new addition to the series was unveiled towards the end of 2023.

As a die-hard fan of retro gaming, it’s safe to say that Shinobi has become an iconic symbol of the 1980s video game era. With the director of Extraction at the helm, I can hardly contain my excitement to witness how he breathes life into this ninja saga on the big screen. Marc Platt and Adam Siegel will produce through Marc Platt Productions, while Dmitri M. Johnson will produce through Story Kitchen. Toru Nakahara will produce through SEGA. Mike Goldberg will executive produce alongside Timothy I. Stevenson, who is co-producing. Universal’s Senior Vice President of Production Development Ryan Jones and Director of Production Development Christine Sun will oversee the project for the studio.

What’s Going On With Extraction 3?

Extraction's Sam Hargrave to Helm Adaptation of Iconic 80s Action Video Game ShinobiExtraction's Sam Hargrave to Helm Adaptation of Iconic 80s Action Video Game ShinobiExtraction's Sam Hargrave to Helm Adaptation of Iconic 80s Action Video Game Shinobi

In addition to directing the Shinobi film, Sam Hargrave has several action movies in development. These include an adaptation of the graphic novel Kill Them All for Paramount Pictures, a unique film called Matchbox featuring John Cena, based on Mattel’s toy cars line, and most excitingly, Extraction 3, where Chris Hemsworth reprises his role as the ruthless mercenary Tyler Rake. This sequel was announced at last year’s Netflix Tudum festival, with plot details still under wraps; however, producer Joe Russo recently provided an encouraging update on the film this year.

Absolutely, we are currently working on it while coordinating Chris’s schedule. Sam Hargrave is returning as the director. This franchise offers a unique opportunity due to its emotionally scarred protagonist, providing fertile ground for compelling storytelling related to his past and the complex relationship between him, violence, self-loathing, and guilt. These layers enrich the narrative, enabling us to delve deeper into his character.

Meanwhile, Hemsworth is thrilled about carrying on the high-octane escapades of Rake character, as Netflix and the Russo Brothers look forward to establishing a series, potentially featuring additional sequels and offshoots in the process.

I’m really enjoying it! I adore portraying this character, immersing myself in this universe, and having the opportunity to work on something that has garnered a fanbase. It feels great to be part of a project that’s more grounded in reality, apart from Marvel. Honestly, I believe we’ve created a better film than the first one, which is not common in franchise productions. Given our success, it would be a missed opportunity not to explore another installment.

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2024-10-09 14:31