Sega's iconic arcade racing game, OutRun, is gearing up for an unexpected leap to the big screen, with none other than Michael Bay at the helm. The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed that Universal Pictures has tapped the Transformers director to not only direct but also produce the upcoming OutRun movie. Adding to the excitement, actress Sydney Sweeney is also on board as a producer. Jayson Rothwell, known for his work on the screenplay for the film, will bring the story to life, though details about the plot remain under wraps. No release date has been announced yet, leaving fans eagerly awaiting more information.
On the Sega front, Toru Nakahara, who played a key role in the Sonic movies, will serve as a producer. Additionally, Sega America and Europe CEO Shuji Utsumi will oversee the project, ensuring that the essence of the beloved game is preserved in its cinematic adaptation. OutRun, which burst onto the scene in 1986, was a groundbreaking arcade driving game designed by the legendary Yu Suzuki. Over the years, it has seen various iterations and ports, with the last significant release being OutRun Online Arcade by Sumo Digital in 2009.
Sega has been actively tapping into its rich catalog for new projects, with games like Crazy Taxi, Jet Set Radio, Golden Axe, Virtua Fighter, and Shinobi currently in development. The company has also made successful forays into film and television adaptations of its intellectual properties. The Sonic movies have garnered a massive following, and last year's Like a Dragon: Yakuza series on Amazon further showcased Sega's commitment to bringing its stories to new audiences. Hollywood's appetite for video game adaptations continues to grow, as evidenced by the record-breaking success of films like The Super Mario Bros. Movie and the recently released A Minecraft Movie.
While plot details for the OutRun movie are scarce, fans speculate that Michael Bay and Sydney Sweeney might be envisioning a high-octane, Fast & Furious-style driving and action film. This adaptation promises to bring the thrill of OutRun's classic arcade experience to the big screen, potentially revving up excitement among both gamers and moviegoers alike.
