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, has ignited excitement among fans of the video game Sleeping Dogs with his announcement of working with rights holders to adapt the game for the big screen. However, the project is more advanced than initially revealed.

A source close to the production confirmed to IGN that a Sleeping Dogs movie is currently in development. Simu Liu, known for his role as Shang-Chi, is reportedly attached as both producer and lead actor, playing the role of Wei Shen. IGN has reached out to Square Enix for comment.

Initially released in 2012 for PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and PC, Sleeping Dogs follows Detective Wei Shen as he infiltrates a Hong Kong Triad syndicate. Despite not meeting Square Enix's sales expectations, the game garnered significant fan love, fueling ongoing calls for a sequel.

Liu's tweet announcing his involvement caused some confusion amongst fans. He later clarified his intentions, expressing his desire to not only produce the film but also help develop a Sleeping Dogs 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," 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.”

Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings: Featured Cast

11 ImagesIGN reveals that Story Kitchen is spearheading the Sleeping Dogs live-action film, with Square Enix holding the rights. Story Kitchen has a proven track record in video game adaptations, having contributed to projects such as the Sonic the Hedgehog films and Netflix's animated Tomb Raider series. They are also currently working on adaptations of Streets of Rage and It Takes Two.

Story Kitchen previously announced a film adaptation of Square Enix's Just Cause, directed by Ángel Manuel Soto. While IGN understands a writer and prominent filmmaker are attached to the Sleeping Dogs project, a release date and production start date remain unannounced.

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