Exciting New Developments for Netflix’s BioShock Movie

Hollywood has been attempting to bring a film adaptation of the iconic 2007 game BioShock to life almost since its release. As you might expect given the lack of a finished product, these efforts have faced numerous challenges. Now, Netflix is stepping up to the plate, becoming the latest player to work on a BioShock movie. While updates have been scarce, director Francis Lawrence recently provided some insight into the film’s development.

Currently promoting his upcoming film, Lawrence shared during an interview that he is “still working on a script” for BioShock and that the team is “pretty close.” He expressed optimism, stating, “I’m feeling really good about it.” Netflix first announced Lawrence’s involvement with the project back in 2022, and now, four years later, the significant news is that a script is nearing completion. This should give fans hope that the BioShock movie is finally on the horizon.

Lawrence appears genuinely enthusiastic about making BioShock a reality. “I would love to make it,” he said. “I’ve been trying to. I’ve been working at it.” Progress on the project faced delays due to the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes in 2023, along with Lawrence’s commitments to his current film. With the latest Hunger Games installment set to hit theaters soon, he may finally have the bandwidth to focus on BioShock.

Initially, Gore Verbinski, known for Pirates of the Caribbean, was the first director attached to adapt the game shortly after its launch. However, that version fell apart due to budget issues and Verbinski’s push for an R-rating. Recently, acclaimed horror director Guillermo del Toro revealed that he also had discussions about leading the project, but described those conversations as some of “the most disastrous calls” he has ever experienced.

As one of the longest-running video game adaptations in development, BioShock has become something of a Hollywood white whale. Here’s hoping Netflix can navigate the challenges ahead and provide fans with more updates soon, especially now that Lawrence is free to dive back into the project.