Universal Pictures has announced a collaboration with SEGA to bring the iconic Shinobi video game franchise to the cinema. The film adaptation will be directed by Sam Hargrave, director known for the adrenaline-filled Extraction saga with Chris Hemsworth. The screenplay will be entrusted to Ken Kobayashi, former author of Sunny and Move On, who will have the task of transposing the adventures of ninja Joe Musashi into an explosive cinematic experience.
The Shinobi series, born in 1987 as an arcade video game, has won over millions of fans around the world with its mix of frenetic action and evocative settings. The protagonist, Joe Musashi, is a modern ninja who fights against evil forces to protect the world from darkness. With over 14 titles under its belt, including main chapters, spin-offs and re-releases, the saga has sold over five million copies, consolidating its cult status.
The news of the film arrives in conjunction with the announcement of a new chapter in the video game series, expected in the future. SEGA has promised to reveal more details about the game soon, further fueling fans’ anticipation. The film will be produced by Marc Platt and Adam Siegel for Marc Platt Productions, Dmitri M. Johnson for Story Kitchen and Toru Nakahara for SEGA. Mike Goldberg and Timothy I. Stevenson will serve as executive producers.