Simu Liu is making notable strides in bringing the Sleeping Dogs movie to the big screen. Although Donnie Yen was initially attached to the project, he provided a discouraging update about its status last month. However, Liu will take his place, standing out as a natural choice for the lead role in the Hollywood adaptation. Notably, his authenticity and age align perfectly with the main character. That said, could this news be the breakthrough that fans of the cult-classic game have been waiting for?
The Sleeping Dogs Movie is Back in Progress
Previously, Simu Liu openly shared his ambition to turn the canceled video game Sleeping Dogs into a live-adaptation film. Interestingly, reports state that Liu has already been making significant progress on the project, showcasing his dedication to turning his vision into reality. Furthermore, United Front Games created the open-world action-adventure game, while Square Enix published it. Set in Hong Kong, players follow undercover police officer Wei Shen as he infiltrates the Triad organization.
Sleeping Dogs received widespread acclaim for its compelling narrative, immersive setting, and dynamic combat system. With this success, a planned sequel aimed to expand the game’s universe but was ultimately shelved due to its overly ambitious scope. Indeed, filmmaker Donnie Yen confirmed the project’s cancelation earlier this year after years of anticipation. Fortunately, recent reports reignited hope for fans of the beloved game, suggesting that the Shang-Chi star is making great progress in reviving the project.
Simu Liu Expresses Hope for Sleeping Dogs Project
Last week, Simu Liu revealed his enthusiasm for creating a Sleeping Dogs film. According to the MCU actor, the collaboration with the rights holders to bring the game to the big screen is off to a good start. What’s more? An insider spoke to IGN Southeast Asia, informing that the project’s progression is further along than Liu’s announcement suggested.
Moreover, the report states that the movie is already in development, with Liu cast as the lead character, Wei Shen. Additionally, the entertainment company Story Kitchen will be at the helm of the live-action adaptation. Known for its work in video game adaptations, the company is responsible for producing the Sonic the Hedgehog films and the Tomb Raider series, which appears on Netflix. Last year, Story Kitchen announced plans to turn Square Enix’s Just Cause into a movie, but no updates have currently been reported.
Donnie Yen Steps Down From the Project
First announced in 2017, the Sleeping Dogs film initially had Donnie Yen set to direct and star in the project, so what went wrong? Earlier this year, Yen revealed that he would no longer pursue the action-adventure film. According to the filmmaker, after years of dedication, including investing his own money to secure drafts and rights, the project didn’t move forward. Expressing frustration, he noted the challenges of navigating Hollywood and the time he spent trying to bring his creative vision to the big screen. Simu Liu has taken up the mantle and is currently working on the project.
Being of Asian descent, both Yen and Liu are well-suited for a role set in Hong Kong. However, each brings distinct advantages to the table. For starters, Yen’s extensive experience in gritty, hard-hitting films makes him a strong choice for authentic action cinema. Still, the seasoned martial artist and action star is over 60 years old, making him older than how most envision the character of Wei Shen.
For Liu, however, Shen’s character closely aligns with the 35-year-old Liu, whose age and energy make him a natural fit for a Hollywood-style adaptation. Despite Liu taking the lead road, Yen can still be involved in the film, adding significant value to the project. With his expertise in action choreography and investment in the story, Yen could be an ideal mentor figure for Liu’s Wei Shen. Combining their strengths, both actors could create a compelling and authentic adaptation.
Sleeping Dogs Game was a Success in 2012
Sleeping Dogs was released on August 14, 2012, earning positive reviews from critics for its combat system, voice acting, experienced mechanics, protagonist, and vivid depiction of Hong Kong. Conversely, the game faced criticism for its camera controls and animations. Overall, review aggregator Metacritic stated that it garnered “generally favorable” ratings, becoming the best-selling title during its first week in the United Kingdom and securing the fifth-highest first-week sales of any game in 2012. Ultimately, the project’s strong appeal and worldwide success solidified its place as a great open-world action-adventure game.
