Universal Attempts to Acquire Rights to Metroid Film — Insider

Metroid may become one of the next chapters in Nintendo’s expanding cinematic universe.

Reports have surfaced online suggesting a possible expansion of Nintendo’s emerging film universe. According to insider MyTimeToShineHello, Universal is in talks to secure the rights to produce a Metroid movie that could be integrated into the so‑called Mario Cinematic Universe.

Attempts to bring Metroid to the screen are not new. In the early 2000s the project was being developed by Lion Rock Productions with John Woo attached to direct. The concept focused on Samus Aran’s early missions and her clash with the Mother Brain. The effort was shelved in 2007 after Nintendo declined to relinquish control over the heroine’s backstory to an outside studio.

Since then, Metroid has frequently been cited as one of the most desired game-to-film adaptations. Former UFC champion Ronda Rousey has said she “dreams of playing Samus”, and Brie Larson has repeatedly professed her affection for the franchise — even dressing as Samus for Halloween. Jordan Vogt‑Roberts, director of Kong: Skull Island, mentioned he has “a wild idea for a Metroid movie, but Nintendo will probably not allow it.” Neill Blomkamp, director of District 9, gave a succinct “yes” when asked about his interest in the project.

Universal and Nintendo have not commented on the rumors. Still, this is not the first time in recent months that Metroid has been mentioned in discussions about expanding Nintendo’s film universe after 2027, when an adaptation of The Legend of Zelda is slated to reach theaters.

Source: iXBT.games