Audiences were enraptured when filmmakerGareth Evans’ stunning martial arts/actionerThe Raidhit theaters in 2011. The film was a hit, showcasing some of the best fight scenes in recent memory, and it spawned a sequel from Evans in 2014 calledThe Raid 2: Berendal. But as with a lot of quality foreign films,The Raidcaught the attention of Hollywood and an American remake was put into development. Screen Gems landed the rights and signedThe Expendables 3helmerPatrick Hughesto direct, but whileFrank Grillowas the first actor attached to star, Hughes and the studio had trouble filling out the ensemble. In 2015, the project was effectively cancelled as Screen Gems, Hughes, and potential starTaylor Kitschall dropped out.
ButThe Raidremake is no longer dead, and it has a new formidable filmmaking team at the helm. XYZ Films released a teaser video online today showingThe GreyandSmokin’ AcesdirectorJoe Carnahanalongside Grillo watchingThe Raidand discussing a potential adaptation, noting it would have to be its own thing and not a straight-up remake. Shortly thereafter, Carnahan took to Twitter to clarify that yes, he’s directing and producingThe Raidremake, but also Evans has given him “his full blessing” and is onboard the project as a producer as well:
This is exciting news indeed. With films likeNarcandThe Greyand evenThe A-Team, Carnahan has shown an aptitude for intensity both physical and emotional. The guy can craft action set pieces to be sure, but he’s also got a big heart—The Greyis basically an existential drama packaged inside a survival thriller. So I’m eager to see the tone Carnahan strikes here, and his filmography inspires confidence that he won’t be forsaking character or thematic resonance for action—films can be both kick ass and big-hearted.
Carnahan most recently directed the 2014 action-comedyStretchand has been doing swell work on the small screen with shows likeThe BlacklistandState of Affairs. He’s also attached to co-write and direct the sequelBad Boys for Life, but it’s unclear if that’s his next project or if he’ll squeeze inThe Raidremake first.
Carnahan and Grillo will be speaking with Collider’s own Steve Weintraub for an exclusive interview later this week all aboutThe Raid, so check back for more details soon, only on Collider.
