Rumored 'Sleeping Dogs' Movie Scores 'Shang-Chi' Star

Simu Liu, star of Marvel's Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, is spearheading a cinematic adaptation of the popular video game Sleeping Dogs. This isn't just a rumor; sources close to the project confirm that the film is in active development, with Liu attached to both produce and star as Wei Shen, the game's protagonist.

IGN has reached out to Square Enix for official comment.

The 2012 action-adventure title, originally released for PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and PC, follows Wei Shen as he infiltrates a Hong Kong Triad gang. Despite not meeting Square Enix's sales projections, Sleeping Dogs garnered a devoted fanbase, fueling persistent calls for a sequel.

Liu stated, “So few film projects make it from pitch phase to greenlight. 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 ImagesStory Kitchen, known for its work on projects ranging from the Sonic the Hedgehog films to Netflix's Tomb Raider series, is leading the Sleeping Dogs film production. Square Enix retains the rights. Story Kitchen is also involved in upcoming adaptations of Streets of Rage and It Takes Two. While a writer and director are attached, a release date and production start remain unannounced.

This film represents a significant resurgence for Sleeping Dogs, whose sequel was canceled in 2013 before entering production, and whose original developer, United Front Games, closed three years later. Over a decade later, Sleeping Dogs is poised for a major comeback.