Michaela Coel is officially stepping into the world of martial arts storytelling, as the multi-hyphenate will write and direct a reimagining of the 1988 cult classic Bloodsport for A24.
The project marks Coel’s third collaboration with A24, continuing a growing creative partnership that includes the upcoming series First Day on Earth and the feature film Mother Mary.
A New Take on a Cult Classic
The original Bloodsport, released in 1988, introduced audiences to Jean-Claude Van Damme as Frank Dux, a U.S. Army officer who enters an underground martial arts tournament in Hong Kong known as the Kumite. The film became a defining moment in Van Damme’s career and went on to spawn multiple sequels throughout the 1990s.
Coel’s version is being described as a reimagining, though specific plot details have not yet been revealed. It remains unclear how closely the new film will follow the original storyline or characters.
Coel on Exploring the World of Fighters
In a statement, Coel shared her interest in the emotional and psychological layers behind combat sports:
“I have long been in awe of fighters, and astounded by the discipline, intensity and isolation the sport demands of them. I am excited to explore this world, especially so with A24 as my collaborators. LET’S F*CKING GO.”
Her perspective signals that this take may go beyond traditional tournament storytelling and lean into the internal realities of those who dedicate their lives to fighting.
Behind the Scenes
A24 will finance and distribute the film. Marc Toberoff and Alberto Lensi are attached as producers, with Stuart Manashil and Peggy DiSalle serving as executive producers.
Toberoff acknowledged the legacy of the original film, noting that Bloodsport helped introduce audiences to the gritty aesthetic of mixed martial arts and that the new version aims to bring that high-energy tournament format back to the big screen.
Coel’s Expanding Slate
Best known for creating and starring in the Emmy-winning series I May Destroy You, Coel continues to build a diverse slate of projects across film and television. She is currently in production on First Day on Earth, which she wrote, executive produces, co-directs, and stars in.
This year she will also appear in Mother Mary alongside Anne Hathaway and in Steven Soderbergh’s The Christophers.