Get ready to enter the Kumite once again, as a remake of Bloodsport is in the works.
A24 has tapped Michaela Coel (“I May Destroy You”) to write and direct the reimagining of the 1988 martial arts cult classic.
Marc Toberoff (Predator: Badlands, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice) will produce, with Stuart Manashil (His House) and Peggy DiSalle serving as executive producers.
Directed by Newt Arnold, the original Bloodsport followed an American martial artist who decides to leave the military to compete in an underground martial arts tournament in Hong Kong, where the fights can be deadly.
Jean-Claude Van Damme starred as Frank Dux, propelling the Belgian martial artist into a global action star.
“I have long been in awe of fighters, and astounded by the discipline, intensity and isolation the sport demands of them,” said Coel. “I am excited to explore this world, especially so with A24 as my collaborators. Let’s fucking go!”
“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,” added Toberoff.
Bloodsport spawned three sequels, sans Van Damme, in the ’90s. Phillip Noyce (Salt) and James McTeigue (V for Vendetta) were previously attached to helm earlier remake attempts.
