Neill Blomkamp is taking on a sci-fi classic! The director of District 9 and Chappie will write and direct a new film adaptation of Starship Troopers, bringing Robert A. Heinlein’s 1959 novel to life once more. Paul Verhoeven famously brought the story to theaters in 1997. Sony’s Columbia Pictures will deliver a fresh take, THR reports.
While specific plot details remain secret, the new Starship Troopers will draw directly from Heinlein’s original military narrative and avoid the satirical approach of the previous adaptation. Blomkamp and his longtime collaborator Terri Tatchell will produce the film.
This project marks a reunion between Blomkamp and Sony. The studio previously worked with him on Gran Turismo, a video game adaptation that grossed $120 million worldwide.
A Brilliant Filmmaker
Blomkamp’s 2009 debut, District 9, remains his defining work. The immigration parable earned four Oscar nominations, including nominations for picture and adapted screenplay. Blomkamp established his brand with realistic, socially conscious sci-fi. He followed District 9 with Elysium and Chappie.
An Old Favorite
The 1997 Starship Troopers was a significant undertaking. Sony’s TriStar Pictures invested heavily in the film, which featured impressive special effects and a rising cast that included Casper van Dien and Neil Patrick Harris. However, the film underperformed at the box office, grossing $121 million worldwide. It gained a cult following for its hyper-violent satire. Strong home media sales led to two direct-to-video sequels and two animated films. Plans for a new adaptation surfaced over a decade ago, and Blomkamp’s involvement marks a significant step forward.
A New Favorite
This new adaptation will likely focus on the military aspects of the novel. It will explore themes of duty, sacrifice, and the nature of war. Blomkamp’s realistic but sci-fi style will bring a fresh perspective to the story. In the meantime, here’s a look back at the 1997 movie’s trailer. You can now watch the 1997 movie on Apple TV and Prime Video.
