Netflix is gearing up its Gears of War adaptation and has landed a new writer as Variety reports that Jon Spaihts has joined the project, tackling one of gaming’s most notable works.
Spaihts joins the film after co-writing Dune, Dune: Part Two, and Doctor Strange. The writer was Oscar-nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay alongside director Denis Villeneuve and Eric Roth. His credits also include The Darkest Hour, Prometheus, The Mummy, and Passengers.
“Gears of War is one of the all-time great action games, with vivid characters, a beautifully designed world, and a combat system that drives home the lethality of war and the importance of standing by your squadmates. It wants to be cinema, and I’m thrilled to have the chance to help that happen,” Spaihts tells Variety.
In November 2022, Netflix teamed with The Coalition to adapt Gears of War, with early plans to start with a live-action feature film, followed by an adult animated series. The game is beloved by many, has lasted for decades, and has sold over 40 million copies worldwide.
In a statement, The Coalition adds, “We’re thrilled to partner with Jon and the Netflix team to bring Gears of War to life. Jon is a master storyteller with a talent for creating epic science fiction universes, and he truly loves Gears of War. We couldn’t ask for a better partner to honor our franchise and deliver an authentic story to our fans.”
The Gears of War ies yet to find a director at the time of writing.