Universal and Sega to Adapt 'Shinobi' Film

Universal Pictures, in collaboration with Sega, is adapting the classic video game series 'Shinobi' into a feature film, with Sam Hargrave, known for 'Extraction,' set to direct. The screenplay is being adapted by Ken Kobayashi, and the production team includes Marc Platt Productions and Story Kitchen, with key figures like Dmitri M. Johnson and Toru Nakahara involved. This follows Universal's recent success with video game adaptations such as 'The Super Mario Bros. Movie' and 'Five Nights at Freddy’s.' The 'Shinobi' franchise, which debuted in 1987, focuses on the ninja Joe Musashi as he battles evil forces. With over 5 million copies sold and a new game announced in 2023, the franchise's film adaptation is part of Sega's larger strategy to expand its intellectual property into new media.