Lionsgate announced additions to the film crew for the Streets of Rage series adaptation. Pat Casey and Josh Miller, writers of all three "Sonic the Hedgehog" films, have joined the project as screenwriters. James Samuel, known for the stylish western "The Harder They Fall" and the comedy "The Book of Clarence," will direct the picture.
Erin Westerman, President of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, commented on the appointment:
"We and our partners at SEGA knew that Streets of Rage demanded a bold filmmaker. James Samuel's vibrant and explosive style – not to mention his signature use of unforgettable music – is a perfect fit for both audiences familiar with the series and new viewers. We are incredibly excited that he will bring his vision to this beloved gaming IP."
The film will be produced by Toru Nakahara from SEGA, Dmitri M. Johnson, Michael Lawrence Goldberg, and Timothy I. Stevenson from Story Kitchen, as well as Todd Black, Jason Blumenthal, and Tony Shaw from Escape Artists. Derek Kolstad ("John Wick") also remains with the project as a producer, although his initial script will be rewritten by the new authors.
There is no official release date for the Streets of Rage film yet.