Netflix Expands Its Sega Deal With Live-Action 'Crazy Taxi' and 'Stranger Than Heaven' Film Adaptations
A new ‘Sonic’ animated series with a comedic tone is also part of the Netflix-Sega deal.
Summary
Netflix and Sega are expanding their partnership to produce film and television adaptations based on video games
A live-action Crazy Taxi comedy and a crime film based on Stranger Than Heaven are in development
A new Sonic animated series designed for pre-schoolers will join the streaming platform
Netflix and Sega expanded their partnership to produce a new slate of film and television adaptations based on video games. This deal builds on the existing relationship established by the animated series Sonic Prime to create a pipeline for gaming properties. The agreement secures a direct method for bringing established interactive franchises to a streaming audience.
A live-action comedy based on the Crazy Taxi series is one of the first projects in development. Writers Dan Gregor and Doug Mand are handling the screenplay for the film. These creators previously wrote the script for the cinematic reboot of The Naked Gun. This Sega movie will debut after the release of the next gaming installment, Crazy Taxi World Tour, which launches next year.
The developmental slate also features a live-action crime film based on Stranger Than Heaven. This project adapts the upcoming action-adventure game from RGG Studio, the team known for the Yakuza and Like A Dragon series. Fans will have access to the Stranger Than Heaven video game when it releases on PC and consoles on January 15. That launch sets the stage for the Netflix live-action adaptation to follow.
Netflix will serve as the home for a new Sonic animated series. This show targets pre-schoolers but promises a high-voltage and comedic tone. Representatives described the project as an emotionally grounded series designed for kids who want a sense of attitude and wish fulfillment. The production follows the conclusion of the previous Sega collaboration on Sonic Prime.
