The streets are looking decidedly empty for Danny and Michael Philippou.
Legendary initially announced its plan to adapt Capcom’s iconic fighting game series, Street Fighter, for both film and television. Known for their surprise horror hit Talk to Me, the Australian twin brothers were chosen to direct this highly anticipated project. However, recent developments have altered those plans.
Citing scheduling conflicts, sources indicate that Legendary and Capcom wanted production to commence sooner rather than later. Unfortunately, the Philippou brothers had other commitments, specifically their upcoming film Bring Her Back, in collaboration with A24. This project, starring Sally Hawkins and Billy Barratt, is set to start filming this month in Australia. As a result, Street Fighter is now in search of new directors.
A Legacy Built on Combos and Characters
Starting with the 1987 arcade game, Street Fighter has cemented itself as one of the enduring fighting game franchises. The 1991 sequel, Street Fighter II, revolutionized the genre by allowing players to select from different characters and utilize varied fighting techniques. This innovation changed how people played arcade games, initiating a worldwide phenomenon.
A Film History of Mixed Martial Results
The franchise’s presence isn’t limited to just games. In 1994, Jean-Claude Van Damme starred in the first live-action adaptation as Col. Guile. Charged with rescuing hostages from the dictator Gen. Bison, played by Raul Julia, Van Damme’s performance became a notable part of 90s action cinema.
The mixed critical reception of these films hasn’t dampened enthusiasm for the series. The 2009 feature Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun-Li, starring Kristin Kreuk, added another dimension but failed to capture the acclaim of its video game counterpart.
Looking Ahead Amid Changing Crews
The challenge now lies in finding new filmmakers capable of bringing a fresh vision to the beloved franchise. The transition away from the Philippou brothers leaves both an opportunity and a risk; only time will tell who will take up this ambitious mantle and how they will shape Ryu, Chung-Li, and others into a compelling narrative for both long-time fans and newcomers alike.
Follow Us
