The writer behind John Wick is developing a kung fu revenge project that packs a smart twist, based on the videogame Sifu.
It’s been announced that the popular martial arts brawler videogame, Sifu, is being adapted for the big screen. The indie title has picked up lots of admirers since its release, selling over a million copies in its first three weeks. The plot itself is nothing revolutionary, running thus: ‘Set in modern-day China, the revenge tale follows the student of a martial arts school’s master (Sifu) as he seeks to avenge the murder of his mentor.’
However, what makes the game stand out is a clever mechanic that ages the protagonist each time he is defeated. As he ages, he becomes more seasoned and powerful as a martial arts practitioner, but also increasingly frail. Eventually, he becomes too wizened by age and succumbs to permanent death unless the player can complete the story in time.
Whilst as a game mechanic, this set-up makes for some thoughtful and tactical martial arts play, it’s easy to see how in the right hands, the concept oozes with potential pathos and narrative possibilities. As it stands, Derek Kolstad, the writer behind the first three John Wick films and Nobody, is penning the film and that seems like a pretty good fit to us.
Kolstad is no stranger to videogame adaptations either having directed much of Netflix’s upcoming Splinter Cell project so we’re wondering if the plan is for him to helm this one as well as penning it.
Little else is known about the project at this time but we’ll bring you more as we hear it.
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