Michaela Coel to Remake ‘Bloodsport’

Michaela Coel to Remake Jean-Claude Van Damme Film ‘Bloodsport’ for A24

It’s a surprising move from the creator of HBO series ‘I May Destroy You’, who has also been seen in the likes of ‘Black Mirror’ and ‘Black Panther’.

(Left) Michaela Coel in 'I May Destroy You' season 1. Photo: Natalie Seery/HBO. Copyright: HBO. (Right) Jean-Claude Van Damme in 1988's 'Bloodsport'. Photo: Cannon Films.

Preview:

Michaela Coel is to write and direct a new take on ‘Bloodsport’.
The original was a 1988 Jean-Claude Van Damme action pic.
A24 will produce the fresh version.

Here’s a story we’re not sure we could ever have predicted, and indeed, almost had us checking the calendar to make sure it’s not already April 1.

Michaela Coel, who has so far been behind the likes of comedy series ‘Chewing Gum’ and acclaimed HBO drama ‘I May Destroy You’ has announced that she is to write and direct a remake of 1988 Jean-Claude Van Damme martial arts actioner ‘Bloodsport’ for A24.

Bloodsport

"The true story of an American ninja."

RDrama Action Thriller

Audience
Score

Release Date: Feb 26, 1988

Run Time: 1 hr 32 min

Budget: $1,500,000

Watch Bloodsport Online

Here’s Coel’s statement on the new movie:

“I have long been in awe of fighters, and astounded by the discipline, intensity and isolation the sport demands of them. I am excited to explore this world, especially so with A24 as my collaborators. LET’S F*****G GO.”

What’s the story of ‘Bloodsport’?

(Right) Jean-Claude Van Damme in 1988's 'Bloodsport'. Photo: Cannon Films.

Directed by Newt Arnold, the 1988 ‘Bloodsport’ focused on a U.S. army captain and ninjutsu practitioner (played by Van Damme) who competes in an underground full-contact martial arts tournament in Hong Kong known as the Kumite.

It remains a cult favorite from the actor’s back catalogue, even despite the supposedly true story fueling it coming into question years afterwards.

As for Coel’s take, we don’t yet know which elements it may retain or change.