fbpx

Weeks After Donnie Yen Says ‘Sleeping Dogs’ Film Cancelled, Simu Liu Reportedly Cast As Lead

It’s been a roller-coaster ride for Sleeping Dogs fans. First, Ip Man star Donnie Yen confirmed the cancellation of his long-gestating live-action adaptation based on the game. Then, Marvel actor Simu Liu reignited hope by announcing that he was working with right holders to bring it to the big screen. Now, it seems the wheels are finally in motion.

Donnie Yen's 'Sleeping Dogs' Movie Is Dead

According to IGN, a source close to the project revealed development is currently underway, with the Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings lead set to portray protagonist Wei Shen. Story Kitchen will reportedly be helming the movie, adding to its slate of other video-game-to-big-screen works, including a Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Just Cause, Streets of Rage, It Takes Two, and Toejam & Early adaptation.

Advertisement ▼

No other details about the Sleeping Dogs film were shared, and Square Enix, publisher of the original game, has yet to release an official statement. However, it would mark a significant revival for the martial arts classic, which grew into a beloved fan favourite despite failing to meet sales expectations. A sequel and spin-off were both planned, but ended up being scrapped in the 2010s.

Released in 2012 and influenced by Hong Kong crime cinema like Infernal Affairs, the sleeper hit from the now-defunct United Front Games followed undercover Wei Shen as he infiltrated the local Triad, with gameplay focusing on his martial arts moves, fighting, shooting, and parkour abilities, alongside exploration and combat-assist gadgets.

Simu Liu Sleeping Dogs Movie

The original Sleeping Dogs film adaptation was announced in 2018 with Yen set to star. After Liu’s optimistic update on X/Twitter, he expressed his intentions to help bring a sequel to life in a separate follow-up post:

“So few film projects make it from pitch phase to greenlight. 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.”