Sony Brings Popular Shooter Game to Life with Justin Lin Directing

Justin Lin, known for directing the Fast and Furious movies, is set to direct a live-action adaptation of the video game Helldivers for Sony Pictures and PlayStation Productions.

Sources from Sony and PlayStation Productions confirmed that Lin will also produce the project through his company, Perfect Storm Entertainment.

Hutch Parker and PlayStation Productions executives Asad Qizilbash and Carter Swan are also producing. The script is written by Gary Dauberman, who previously worked on the It and Annabelle horror films, according to THR.

Helldivers is a top-down shooter game from Arrowhead Game Studios that first launched in 2015. The game was released on PlayStation consoles and later on Windows, marking Sony’s return to PC publishing after decades. Players take control of a team of elite soldiers, the Helldivers, sent to defend Super Earth while spreading what the game calls “managed democracy.”

Gameplay focuses on teamwork, strategy, and avoiding friendly fire during chaotic missions. Players can customize their weapons and equipment and use a variety of stratagems, such as calling in airstrikes or enhancing mobility, to complete objectives.

The game received strong reviews and sold more than 4 million copies by May 2024. A sequel, Helldivers 2, was released in February 2024, keeping the franchise in the spotlight.

Sony and PlayStation have experience turning games into successful films. They previously adapted Uncharted, starring Tom Holland and Mark Wahlberg, which earned over $400 million worldwide and ranks among the highest-grossing video game movies. PlayStation Productions has also worked on hit shows like Twisted Metal on Peacock and HBO’s The Last of Us.

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