Lollipop Chainsaw fans have a massive wave of new media to anticipate. Alongside a newly confirmed video game sequel scheduled for 2027, the iconic action-horror franchise is officially heading to the big screen. The live-action feature film will be an R-rated action-comedy prequel. It focuses on the origins of the series’ famous cheerleader heroine, Juliet Starling.
The Origins and History of the Franchise
Released in 2012 for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, Lollipop Chainsaw grew out of a unique collaboration between legendary Japanese game designer Goichi Suda (Suda51), developer Grasshopper Manufacture, and filmmaker James Gunn. Gunn co-wrote the game’s script before directing Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy.
The game combined Suda51’s signature surreal style with Gunn’s sharp, B-movie comedy humor. The original game followed San Romero High School cheerleader Juliet Starling. She secretly comes from a family of zombie hunters. She battles undead hordes armed with a pink chainsaw and the severed, still-living head of her boyfriend, Nick.
While critics delivered mixed reviews regarding its short length and repetitive combat mechanics, the game earned widespread acclaim. All thanks to its vibrant aesthetic, campy humor, and iconic licensed soundtrack. Over time, Lollipop Chainsaw became Grasshopper Manufacture’s most successful commercial release. It also became a beloved cult classic among action-horror enthusiasts. Interest in the property experienced a major revival in 2024 with the release of Lollipop Chainsaw RePOP, a remastered edition by Dragami Games that restored the classic gameplay for modern consoles and introduced the franchise to a brand-new generation of players.
A Global Creative Effort Behind the Adaptation
Announced at the Tokyo Game Show, the upcoming film is being developed by a multinational group of entertainment producers. The creative team includes Joe Teng of Nada Holdings, Robert Franke of Orange Chariot, and Takafumi Yuki of Throne Inc. Kirk Shaw of Ambitious Entertainment, and Patricio Rabuffetti of Non Stop TV also join the fray.
Shohei Sato, President of Dragami Games, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership. He noted that working alongside a passionate international team will keep the film true to the game’s identity. All while allowing it to expand the universe in a fresh direction.
“We are truly excited to see our vision take another important step with the franchise’s first live-action feature film,” states Dragami Games President Shohei Sato. “We are especially pleased to be working with such an experienced and passionate international team— one that understands what makes Lollipop Chainsaw special while embracing the opportunity to create something new.”
Producer Robert Franke added that the adaptation will capture the attitude and glorious excess that define the series, offering a thrilling experience for longtime fans and newcomers alike.
Deadline quotes Franke as saying it is “unmistakably true” to the spirit of Lollipop Chainsaw, while standing as its own entry. “Longtime fans will recognize the attitude, irreverence, and glorious excess they love, while newcomers can simply enjoy an unforgettable action-horror comedy. Our ambition is to create a film that entertains audiences everywhere, whether they’ve played the game or not.”
A Multi-Platform Resurgence for Juliet Starling
The film is just one component of a broader push to revitalize the franchise across multiple entertainment mediums. Alongside the film, fans will also be getting an animated series. It is currently in development to launch alongside the upcoming game sequel, Lollipop Chainsaw 2: Back2Back. Currently targeted for a 2027 release on PlayStation 5 and additional platforms. The next game chapter ensures that the chainsaw-wielding protagonist will dominate consoles, television screens, and movie theaters in the coming years.
We’ll keep you posted as more details about the film surface. You can find more information about the many upcoming game adaptations here.
