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

“I May Destroy You” creator Michaela Coel is writing and directing a remake of Jean-Claude Van Damme’s martial arts classic “Bloodsport” for A24.

Van Damme starred in 1988’s “Bloodsport,” which was directed by Newt Arnold and centred on a U.S. army captain and ninjutsu practitioner who competes in an underground full-contact martial arts tournament in Hong Kong. Plot details for Coel’s reimagining haven’t been revealed, so it’s unclear how closely her take will follow the original film.

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

Coel is best-known for creating and starring in the Emmy-winning “I May Destroy You” and the British sitcom “Chewing Gum.” She has also appeared on “Black Mirror” and in “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.” This film marks her third collaboration with A24 following the miniseries “First Day on Earth” and “Mother Mary.” She wrote, executive-produced, co-directed and stars in “First Day on Earth,” which is currently in production. “Mother Mary,” a psycho-thriller led by Anne Hathaway and Hunter Schafer, is slated to release in theatres on April 17.

A24 will finance and distribute the “Bloodsport” remake. Marc Toberoff, whom Vanity Fair once described as “Elon Musk’s Hollywood-loving lawyer,” will produce. Alberto Lensi will also serve as a producer. Stuart Manashil and Peggy DiSalle will serve as executive producers.

“In 1988, the now-iconic ‘Bloodsport’ introduced audiences to the gritty aesthetic of mixed martial arts,” said Toberoff. “I look forward to bringing back that high-energy tournament format to the big screen again.”