Simu Liu Eyed for Sleeping Dogs Movie

Marvel Cinematic Universe star Simu Liu recently ignited excitement among Sleeping Dogs fans with a tweet announcing his involvement in bringing the beloved video game to the big screen. However, the project is further along than initially revealed. Sources close to the production confirm that a Sleeping Dogs movie is indeed in development, with Liu—known for his role as Shang-Chi—set to produce and star as Wei Shen. IGN has reached out to Square Enix for comment.

Initially released in 2012 for PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and PC, Sleeping Dogs captivated players with its gripping story of undercover detective Wei Shen infiltrating a Hong Kong Triad. Despite failing to meet Square Enix's sales expectations, its enduring popularity fueled persistent calls for a sequel.

A previous adaptation, announced in 2017 with Donnie Yen attached, was ultimately scrapped a year later. Yen himself recently confirmed the project's cancellation, citing years of invested time and resources.

Liu's tweet, therefore, caused some initial confusion. He later clarified his involvement, expressing his determination to not only bring the Sleeping Dogs movie to fruition but also to contribute to a potential video game sequel. He highlighted the challenges of pitching the project to executives unfamiliar with the game's appeal.

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

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11 ImagesIGN can reveal that Story Kitchen is leading the Sleeping Dogs live-action film, with Square Enix holding the rights. Story Kitchen boasts experience in video game adaptations, having worked on projects ranging from the Sonic the Hedgehog films to Netflix's Tomb Raider animated series. They are also currently developing adaptations of Streets of Rage and It Takes Two.

Story Kitchen previously announced a film adaptation of Square Enix's Just Cause, with Blue Beetle director Ángel Manuel Soto attached. While a writer and prominent filmmaker are involved in the Sleeping Dogs project, a release date and production start remain unannounced.

This film marks a significant resurgence for Sleeping Dogs, whose planned sequel was canceled in late 2013, and its original developer, United Front Games, closed three years later. Over a decade later, Sleeping Dogs is poised for a cinematic comeback.