Netflix's Gears of War Film Progresses, Marcus Cast Unconfirmed

The director of The Fall Guy is in negotiations to helm Netflix's Gears of War movie adaptation.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, David Leitch - known for directing Atomic Blonde (2017), Deadpool 2 (2018), Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw (2019), and Bullet Train (2022) - is currently in talks to direct the live-action adaptation of Microsoft's popular third-person shooter franchise.

Leitch and his producing partner Kelly McCormick are reportedly set to produce alongside Gears developer The Coalition. Jon Spaihts (Dune, Doctor Strange) has been tapped to write the screenplay.

After acquiring the rights to Gears of War two and a half years ago, Netflix appears to be moving forward with production plans. Sources indicate an adult animated series tied to the franchise is also in development, slated to release after the live-action film. Successful adaptations could potentially lead to additional Gears projects.

The burning question remains casting - specifically who will portray series protagonist Marcus Fenix. Former professional wrestler Dave Bautista has been publicly campaigning for the role for years, even receiving endorsement from Gears co-creator Cliff Bleszinski.

Video game adaptations continue gaining momentum in Hollywood, with recent successes like The Super Mario Bros. Movie, Minecraft, and Sonic the Hedgehog films performing exceptionally well. Other notable adaptations include Uncharted, Mortal Kombat, and various Resident Evil projects.

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Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer stated in March that despite Halo's mixed reception, the company remains committed to adapting its gaming IPs. Spencer noted Microsoft has learned valuable lessons from projects like Halo and Fallout, increasing their confidence in pursuing more adaptations.

"We're learning and evolving through this process, gaining the confidence to develop more adaptations," Spencer explained. "Each project builds upon the last. While some may miss the mark, our message to fans is clear: expect more content as we continue improving."

Meanwhile, game developer The Coalition is currently working on Gears of War: E-Day, a prequel to the main series that currently lacks a confirmed release date.