Netflix’s adaptation of the popular Xbox franchise Gears of War remains in active development with a deliberate focus on quality over speed, according to Kelly McCormick of production company 87North. The project, which has been in various stages of planning since 2007, is being approached with careful attention to honoring the source material while creating a standalone cinematic experience.
McCormick, who co-founded 87North with director David Leitch in 2019, emphasized that the team is prioritizing character development and world-building to ensure the film resonates with longtime fans. Speaking about the project’s current status, she noted that the production is “moving well” and that writers are “diligently” working on the script.
“Gears of War is a title we have enormous respect for, and we know how much it means to fans around the world,” McCormick stated. “It’s a rich universe with incredible scale, emotion, mythology, and action, so our focus has always been on getting it right rather than rushing it.”
The Gears of War series, which debuted on Xbox 360 in November 2006, has evolved into one of gaming’s most recognizable franchises. Known for blending intense third-person shooter gameplay with narrative depth, the series has sold millions of copies worldwide across its main entries and spin-offs. The most recent mainline installment, Gears 5, was released in 2019.
87North Productions, the company behind the adaptation, has established itself as a notable force in Hollywood action filmmaking since its founding. The Santa Monica-based company has produced several commercially successful films including Nobody (2021), Bullet Train (2022), and The Fall Guy (2024), demonstrating their capability to handle high-octane productions with broad audience appeal.
David Leitch, who is set to direct the Gears of War film, brings significant experience to the project. Known for his work on action franchises like John Wick (as co-director of the first film) and Atomic Blonde, Leitch has developed a reputation for stylish, physically demanding action sequences that prioritize practical effects, and choreography.
The adaptation process for video game properties presents unique challenges, particularly for a series like Gears of War that has built its identity over nearly two decades. McCormick acknowledged this complexity, stating that the team recognizes they’re “not just adapting a game—we’re building a cinematic experience that honors what people love while also standing on its own as a great film.”
This approach reflects a broader trend in Hollywood where studios are increasingly taking more time with video game adaptations following past criticisms of rushed productions that failed to capture the essence of their source material. Recent successes like The Last of Us television adaptation have demonstrated the potential for thoughtful translations of interactive narratives to other mediums.
While no official release date has been announced for the Netflix Gears of War film, McCormick’s comments indicate that the project is progressing through its writing phase with careful consideration. The production team appears committed to delivering a film that satisfies both fans of the games and newcomers to the franchise.
As development continues, audiences can expect further updates from 87North and Netflix regarding casting, production timelines, and creative direction. For now, the message from those involved is clear: taking the necessary time to receive the adaptation right remains the top priority.
Stay tuned to World Today Journal for the latest updates on this highly anticipated adaptation as more information becomes available from official sources.
Related reading