Ghost of Tsushima quickly became one of PlayStation's biggest hits and it's sold more than 9 million copies since first being released. As a result, we're not exactly surprised an adaptation of the video game is in the works and the project has already attracted some serious talent in the form of John Wick director Chad Stahelski.
In terms of action at least, we're clearly in for a treat, though it's now been two years since we first heard of plans for a big screen take on the game. Talking to Screen Rant (via GameFragger.com), Stahelski offered a long-awaited update; with the script now finished, it sounds like work will continue in earnest once the SAG-AFTRA strike ends.
"We have a script, we're very close to getting our sh*t together on that, as well," the filmmaker confirmed. "Development is always tricky, it's studios, it's strikes, and availabilities, and scouting. You have to will things into existence."
"I think the two things that I am closest and most interested in are Highlander and Ghost of Tsushima. Both amazing, amazing properties, the story of Ghost is, also, one of my favorite properties of all time."
Stahelski's Highlander remake was recently given the green light at Lionsgate, with Henry Cavill set to take on the lead role. Presumably, the movie will be a priority for the director, leaving Ghost of Tsushima to follow once work on that has wrapped.
Last year, the filmmaker shared some of his hopes for the project, suggesting it will very much be in line with what fans love about the game.
"Honestly, it's probably the same things that would scare the shit out of most people. It's a fantasy period piece. It's done with reverence to Akira Kurosawa, who's probably in the top five biggest influences of my life as far as film goes," he said. "It's a chance to push technology and people in a story that's timeless."
"I think if we did this right, it would be visually stunning. It's character driven. It's got an opportunity for great action, great looks. It's a Japanese thing about the Mongols invading Tsushima island. A complete Japanese cast, in Japanese. Sony is so on board with backing us on that. To try to direct not only in my language, but someone else's and culturally shift my mindset to bring apart that in a cool way that still entices a Western audience."
Thanks to adaptations like Uncharted and The Last of Us, Sony is no doubt confident that it can deliver another hit with Ghost of Tsushima. Whether Stahelski's vision will come to fruition is tough to say, especially when the studio is likely looking for a film that appeals to the masses.
Are you excited about these live-action Ghost of Tsushima plans?