Another video game adaptation is underway. And this bypasses unexpected territory. Universal is developing features based on Outrun, Sega’s classic arcade racer from the ’80s, with Michael Bay lined up in the production of Direct and Sidney Sweeney.
The project is still in the early stages of development, with screenwriter Jason Rothwell (Polar, Silent Night) working on the script. Bay will also produce via his Platinum Dunes banner along with regular collaborator Brad Fuller. Sweeney, who has previously had two feature credits as both a producer and a star, will be taking part in the project, with you and anyone else in 2023 Rom-com except for the 2024 horror film. Sweeney, highway cars, Bayhem and more make sense from a marketing standpoint, but it’s still unknown if she decides to take on the lead role.
As first reported in Deadline, Autrun is being developed under a first appearance contract with Universal’s Platinum Dunes. Sega executive producer Nakahara True (Sonic the Hedgehog, Knuckles) is also on board, with Sega Corporation overseeing the studio side.
From arcade screens to movie screens
First released in arcades in 1986, Outrun became a staple of the era. It’s not because of its cool open-road energy, not because of its hardcore racing sim. Players raced a red Ferrari Testarossa through the fork tracks as they chiptuned the music and chose the route and soundtrack. In short, fast, ferocious, top-down convertibles and synth playlists on the summer highway.
Plot details are not currently wrapped. This will be tracked. Ortran never got heavy on the story. With Bay in the director’s seat, we’re hoping for more vehicle mayhem and a big boom, but any adaptation could rely on tone and aesthetics rather than direct translation.
Sweeney doesn’t star in Outrun, but her car passion may explain why this particular IP made it on her radar. The Euphoria Star recovered vintage vehicles in downtime and took part in the NASCAR event.
It’s still not seen whether the film leaps towards arcade appeal or choose something bigger. In any case, Universal is clearly interested in stacking up video game slates following the successful five nights at Super Mario Bros. movie and Freddy’s.
Let’s take a look back at some of this old school gameplay.
