Bombs away! In what sounds like a perfect match, Universal adds another video game adaptation to its lineup with Michael Bay and Sydney Sweeney behind the wheel of OutRun.
The studio is currently developing a feature film based on Sega’s OutRun, with Michael Bay set to direct and Sydney Sweeney producing (via Deadline).
The classic arcade racer, first released in the 1980s, is one of Sega’s most iconic franchises. The OutRun adaptation continues the growing trend of video game projects in Hollywood, following big box office wins like Minecraft, The Super Mario Bros. Movie, and Five Nights at Freddy’s, as well as the TV video game adaptations of The Last of Us, Twisted Metal, and Fallout.
Sweeney Producing, Bay Directing
Sydney Sweeney is producing through her Fifty-Fifty Films label. At this point, she is not attached to star. Michael Bay will direct and produce through his Platinum Dunes banner, along with longtime collaborator Brad Fuller. The script is being written by Jayson Rothwell.
Sega’s Toru Nakahara, who has produced the Sonic the Hedgehog films and Golden Axe, is also on board as a producer. Shuji Utsumi, Sega’s president and COO, will oversee the project.
What Is OutRun?
Originally released in arcades in 1986, OutRun became known for its fast-paced racing gameplay, branching paths, and signature electronic soundtrack. It played a big role in shaping the driving game genre. Over the years, OutRun has seen several sequels and ports across home consoles.
Plot specifics for the movie haven’t been revealed. However, with Michael Bay attached, expect high-speed action and explosive set pieces.
Universal’s Game Plan
Universal has already seen major success with video game adaptations. The Super Mario Bros. Movie pulled in over $1.4 billion worldwide, while Five Nights at Freddy’s made nearly $300 million. OutRun could be the next in line to cash in on the gaming boom, especially with big names like Sydney Sweeney and Michael Bay attached.
Sydney Sweeney behind the camera
While Sydney Sweeney is known for hit shows and movies in front of the camera like Euphoria and Anybody But You, she also produced the latter as well as her horror movie, Immaculate, and the upcoming Christy Martin biopic. Sweeney is also producing Scandalous! and executive producing The Housemaid.
Michael Bay returns to direct
Following the Transformers movies, Michael Bay directed Ambulance starring Jake Gyllenhaal. Bay also directed the Born Evil: The Serial Killer and the Savior TV series available on Discovery+, and the We Are Storror extreme sports documentary. Bay was also behind the recent U.S. Secret Service Super Bowl spot.
