Sega's classic arcade racing game OutRun is set for an unexpected film adaptation, with Michael Bay and Sydney Sweeney on board.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Universal Pictures has enlisted Transformers director Bay to helm and produce the OutRun film, with Sweeney also joining as a producer. Jayson Rothwell is writing the screenplay, though specific plot details and a release date remain under wraps.
On Sega's side, Toru Nakahara, a veteran of the Sonic movie productions, is attached as a producer, while Sega America and Europe CEO Shuji Utsumi will oversee the project.
OutRun first launched in 1986 as a visually striking arcade driving game created by Sega's legendary developer Yu Suzuki. Over the years, it has seen numerous versions and ports, with a proper sequel arriving in 2003. While the series has been relatively quiet recently, the last major release was Sumo Digital's OutRun Online Arcade in 2009.
Sega has recently revisited its back catalog for inspiration, with new Crazy Taxi, Jet Set Radio, Golden Axe, Virtua Fighter, and Shinobi titles currently in development.
The company has also actively pursued adaptations of its beloved IP. The Sonic film series has proven enormously successful, and last year saw the launch of an adaptation of Like a Dragon: Yakuza on Amazon. Hollywood continues to show strong interest in video game adaptations, with The Super Mario Bros. Movie and the recently released A Minecraft Movie setting new box office records.
As for what to expect from the OutRun film, it's possible Bay and Sweeney envision a Fast & Furious-style blend of high-octane driving and action.
