DC pause plans on Luca Guadagnino’s ‘Sgt Rock’

Amid the ever-growing number of various comic book properties that are seeing adaptations on the big screen, DC are no longer moving forward with director Luca Guadagnino’s movie adaptation of the character Sgt Rock.

The famed comic book character has been part of DC’s roster for years, dating back to his first appearance in 1959. However, a film adaptation had proved increasingly difficult to get off the ground. While comic book veteran Colin Farrell had been lined up to star in the films, the project is no longer going ahead as planned, according to The Wrap.

Being set during World War II, the film was intended to begin filming in the summer in London. Reportedly due to scheduling conflicts, the process has now been speculately moved to 2026 but Guadagnino is unlikely to still be involved if it does push forward.

Despite falling through, DC co-chief James Gunn is said to be still hopeful about making something work in the new year after being impressed by the script, which was being helmed by Guadagnino’s frequent collaborator, Justin Kuritzkes, according to Variety. They reportedly viewed it as a period piece rather than the standard comic book thrill ride.

However, this is far from the first time that plans for the film have been put on hold. For years, an authentic Sgt Rock film had been in development, with Arnold Schwarzenegger and Bruce Willis being considered for the lead role.

Before considering Farrell for the crimefighter, the studio initially considered Daniel Craig, but the famed James Bond actor turned it down. It is believed that he walked away from the project so he could focus on his involvement in Greta Gerwig’s latest incarnation of the Narnia series.

Despite the plans falling through, Farrell is expected to return as The Penguin for the next instalment in Matt Reeves’s Batman franchise, with the next film set to come out in October 2026. As of yet, there has been no word as to whether the character’s accompanying HBO show is going to be getting a second season.

ADD AS A PREFERRED SOURCE ON GOOGLE

Never Miss A Scene

The Far Out Film Newsletter

All the latest film news from the independent voice of culture.
Straight to your inbox.