Upcoming Video Game Movie Adaptations In 2023
In recent years, we have seen a growing trend of video game adaptations into movies. From Sonic the Hedgehog to Tomb Raider, Assassin’s Creed, Uncharted, Mortal Kombat, Warcraft and so many more. The popularity of these wonderful stories means that audiences usually arrive en masse, when they’re brought to the big screen. Because for the fans it’s a heady brew of joy, fascination and nostalgia, seeing their favourite games brought to life.
And the studios aren’t done, because there is a well of material and potential for the creation of some truly great films.
This article will provide an overview of the upcoming video game movies, as well as discuss the potential movies that studios might announce in the future. We will also analyse the challenges and opportunities of adapting video games into movies and what these new movies can bring to the table in terms of themes, storytelling, and entertainment.
Read on.
Video Game Movies in 2023
Super Mario Bros
This one’s been making waves, with audiences already appreciating the voice talents of Chris Pratt and Charlie Day in the lead roles of the iconic plumber brothers, Mario and Luigi, respectively. However, and perhaps entirely out of left field, has been the appreciation of villain Bowser, and the electrifying way actor Jack Black has deftly brought him to life in a character that’s scary, endearing, funny and tragic all at the same time. This one’s already here and ready for you, so come see it at your nearest Ster-Kinekor – not just for the nostalgia, but also for the fun of it.
Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves
We know, this one isn’t a video game, per se. More of a table top, dice roller. But Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), has had an undeniably profound impact on all mediums dealing with the sword-swinging, magic-casting, dragon battling fantastical. From live-action role playing, to books, movies, and yes, video games. So, we’re going to leave this one here.
Here’s a synopsis: Edgin Darvis, a bard, serves as a member of the Harpers, an order of peacekeepers. However, tragedy strikes when disciples of a Red Wizard he had apprehended murder his wife. Determined to start anew, Edgin joins forces with a barbarian named Holga Kilgore, seeking to provide a better life for his daughter Kira, and with the help of a band of rapscallions, they go on a quest to steal a magical artefact that should put everything right. Or so they hope.
This one is good fun, and it’s playing at Ster-Kinekor theatres right now. Click here to get your tickets.
Gran Turismo
Here’s an upcoming feature based on a Playstation game, but with a real-world twist. Inspired by a true story, Gran Turismo tells the incredible journey of a teenage player of the popular video game, who, through his exceptional gaming skills, triumphs in a series of Nissan competitions. This remarkable tale becomes the ultimate fulfilment of his dreams as he transforms from a gamer to a professional racecar driver.
This one races into theatres on 11 August.
Upcoming Video Game Movies
Experience elite espionage on the big screen with 'Metal Gear Solid'
'Metal Gear Solid' is a legendary stealth action game developed by Konami and directed by Hideo Kojima. The game centres around Solid Snake, a soldier who infiltrates enemy territory to stop a nuclear threat. The movie adaptation has been in development for over a decade, with various writers and directors attached to the project. As of now, the movie is set to be directed by Jordan Vogt-Roberts and is rumoured to star Oscar Isaac as Solid Snake. The director has stated that he wants to honour the source material while also creating a unique cinematic experience. Fans can expect thrilling action sequences, complex characters, and nods to the game's lore and mythology.
Another ‘Sonic the Hedgehog’ is speeding to completion
Release date: 2024
‘Sonic the Hedgehog 3’ is likely to be the series' swansong, but it sounds like it’s going to be no less speedy, no less snarky, and no less hilarious. The very vague details that we have so far can confirm that Sonic and Tails will be facing perhaps their toughest rival, the one and only Shadow the Hedgehog.
Possible Upcoming Video Game Movies
We could be seeing the elves, gods and goddesses of ‘The Legend of Zelda’ sooner than later
Release date: TBA
Is a 'The Legend of Zelda' movie in the works for 2023? ‘The Legend of Zelda' is a beloved fantasy adventure game developed by Nintendo. The game follows Link, a young hero who must rescue Princess Zelda and save the kingdom of Hyrule from the evil Ganon. Despite its popularity, there has been no official announcement of a 'Legend of Zelda' movie in the works. However, rumours and fan speculation have been circulating for years, with various actors and directors expressing interest in the project. In 2015, Netflix even announced a live-action 'Legend of Zelda' series, but the project was ultimately cancelled. While there is no concrete evidence that a 'Legend of Zelda' movie will be released in 2023, fans continue to hope and speculate about the possibility.
We could be going to the blocky landscape of ‘Minecraft’ at the theatres
Release date: TBA
The building and exploration game sensation that has swept the world since 2011, is coming to the big screen. There are minimum details regarding plot, but Ster-Kinekor can unofficially announce that one Jason Momoa is on-board as voice talent.
The potential of video game movies to bridge the gap between gaming and cinema
In recent years, we've seen more and more video game movie adaptations hit the big screen. And while some of them have been a bit of a let-down, others have been surprisingly good.
But here's the thing: video games and movies are two very different mediums, so adapting a game into a movie isn't always easy. There are different challenges that come with each medium, and finding a way to make them work together can be tricky. But when it works, it's awesome! Video game movies have the potential to introduce new audiences to gaming and vice versa. People who might not normally play video games might be interested in checking out the game that a movie is based on. And gamers who love a particular game might be excited to see it come to life on the big screen.
Of course, there are risks involved too. Fans of the game might not like the way a movie adaptation changes things, or they might feel that the movie doesn't do the game justice. And sometimes, the movie just doesn't work, plain and simple.
But overall, video game movies are a really interesting trend. They have the potential to bring together two different communities and create something new and exciting. What’s more, the level of technology we’re experiencing means there has never been a better time for the world of gaming, and the world of cinema to overlap. And because of that, the sky's the limit now when it comes to taking these stories and worlds, and making them come alive in new ways. And of course with our favourite actors coming along to embody perhaps some of the most cherished characters out there.
While there are challenges and risks involved in adapting video games into movies, the potential rewards of bridging the gap between the two mediums and introducing new audiences to the world of gaming are worth pursuing. As always, it is essential to approach these adaptations with an open mind, and appreciate them as unique interpretations of beloved stories, characters, and worlds.
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