The Sleeping Dogs Movie IS in Development and We’re Hearing Shang-Chi Star Simu Liu Is Set to Play Wei Shen

Simu Liu, the Marvel Cinematic Universe star, is spearheading the adaptation of the popular video game Sleeping Dogs into a feature film. While Liu's initial tweet hinted at his involvement, sources close to the project confirm he's not only producing but also set to star as Wei Shen, the game's protagonist.

This news follows the cancellation of a previous Sleeping Dogs film adaptation announced in 2017, which was to star Donnie Yen. Yen himself recently confirmed the project's demise after years of development. Liu's involvement represents a significant revival for the franchise.

The original Sleeping Dogs game, released in 2012, captivated players with its compelling story of an undercover detective infiltrating Hong Kong's Triads. Despite not meeting initial sales expectations, its enduring popularity fueled persistent calls for a sequel.

Liu's enthusiasm extends beyond the film; he's also expressed interest in helping develop a Sleeping Dogs video game sequel. He acknowledges the challenges of bringing video game adaptations to fruition, highlighting the difficulties of pitching the project to executives unfamiliar with the source material.

"So few film projects make it from pitch phase to greenlight," Liu 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.”

Story Kitchen, known for its work on adaptations such as the Sonic the Hedgehog films and Netflix's Tomb Raider series, is leading the Sleeping Dogs film project. Square Enix, the rights holder, is also involved. Story Kitchen's current projects include adaptations of Streets of Rage and It Takes Two. While a writer and director are attached, a release date remains unannounced.

The Sleeping Dogs film marks a significant comeback for the franchise, which saw its planned sequel canceled in 2013 and its original developer, United Front Games, close three years later. Over a decade after the game's release, Sleeping Dogs is poised for a cinematic resurgence.