Get ready for a Kumite, as a remake of Bloodsport is in production. This new spin on the 1988 film that launched Jean-Claude Van Damme’s career as an action star will be written and directed by I May Destroy You creator Michaela Coel for A24 Films. This will be the third time that Coel has collaborated with the famed film company, following her work on the mini-series First Day on Earth and Mother Mary.
“I have long been in awe of fighters, and astounded by the discipline, intensity, and isolation the sport demands of them,” Coel said to Variety. “I am excited to explore this world, especially so with A24 as my collaborators. Let’s f***ing go.”
The original Bloodsport was inspired by Frank Dux’s stories about competing in a secret underground tournament. None of Dux’s claims–such as 329 straight victories, 56 consecutive knockouts, or organizers using high-speed cameras to track his lightning-fast kicks–have ever been proven, but the story still made for an entertaining film. The movie’s theme song, Fight to Survive, performed by Stan Bush, also helped boost its popularity at the box office.
This sounds like an exciting project! Bloodsport has such a cult following, and it’s interesting to see it getting a fresh take. A24 has a great track record, so it will be intriguing to see how they approach this classic.
how it influenced the gaming world, especially with iconic moves like those in Mortal Kombat. A fresh take could also introduce new audiences to the classic martial arts themes. It’ll be fascinating to see how they modernize the story while respecting the original!