The Sleeping Dogs Movie IS in Development and We’re Hearing Shang-Chi Star Simu Liu Is Set to Play Wei Shen

Simu Liu, star of Marvel's Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, is spearheading the adaptation of the acclaimed video game Sleeping Dogs into a feature film. Contrary to earlier reports, this isn't just a nascent idea; a source close to the project confirms the film is actively in development. Liu is not only attached to star as Wei Shen but is also serving as a producer.

IGN has reached out to Square Enix for official comment.

The original Sleeping Dogs, released in 2012 for PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and PC, follows Wei Shen's undercover infiltration of a Hong Kong Triad. Despite falling short of Square Enix's sales projections, it garnered a devoted fanbase, fueling persistent calls for a sequel.

Liu's initial tweet regarding his involvement sparked considerable fan excitement and some confusion. He later clarified his intentions, expressing his desire to not only bring the Sleeping Dogs movie to fruition but also to champion the development of a long-awaited sequel game.

“So few film projects make it from pitch phase to greenlight,” Liu stated. “Pitching execs who don’t understand the game has been tiring. Everyone’s overwhelming love of Sleeping Dogs here has really given us life! First a movie, then a sequel game for everyone… that’s always been the dream.”

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11 ImagesStory Kitchen is leading the Sleeping Dogs film adaptation, with Square Enix retaining the rights. Story Kitchen's experience encompasses various video game adaptations, including the Sonic the Hedgehog films and Netflix's Tomb Raider series. They are also currently working on adaptations of Streets of Rage and It Takes Two. Last year, they announced a Just Cause film adaptation. While a writer and significant filmmaker are reportedly involved in the Sleeping Dogs project, a release date and production start remain undisclosed.

The film represents a significant resurgence for the Sleeping Dogs franchise. A planned sequel was canceled in 2013, and the original developer, United Front Games, closed three years later. Over a decade later, Sleeping Dogs is poised for a cinematic comeback.