Michael Bay, the renowned director known for his high-octane action films like “Bad Boys” and “Transformers,” is making a significant shift to the small screen. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Bay is in talks to direct a new fantasy series for Netflix titled “Barbaric,” based on the popular Vault Comics series of the same name.
“Barbaric” is set to feature Sam Claflin, known for his roles in “The Hunger Games” and “Daisy Jones and the Six,” alongside the legendary Patrick Stewart, famous for his iconic roles as Professor X and Captain Picard. The series will be written and executive produced by Sheldon Turner, who has notable credits such as “X-Men: First Class” and “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Beginning.”
Turner and Bay’s collaboration dates back to their work on the 2006 reboot of “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre,” produced by Bay’s Platinum Dunes production company. While Platinum Dunes has been involved in several television projects, including “Black Sails,” “The Last Ship,” and “The Purge” TV spinoff, “Barbaric” marks Bay’s first foray into television directing.
The premise of “Barbaric” is intriguing, centering on Owen, a barbarian seeking redemption, played by Claflin. The twist? Owen wields a demonic talking axe, voiced by none other than Patrick Stewart. This unique combination of fantasy elements and Bay’s signature action style promises a thrilling viewing experience.
Bay has not directed a feature film since 2022’s “Ambulance,” but he has been far from idle. He recently appeared in the latest “Bad Boys” film and has been collaborating with Vault Comics on a new media universe created by musician Post Malone. However, “Barbaric” is expected to hit screens before the MaloneVerse project.
The big question is how much of “Barbaric” Bay will direct himself. Known for his uncompromising vision, Bay has a history of going to great lengths to achieve his desired shots, even spending his own money for key scenes in his debut film “Bad Boys.” If Bay brings his full directorial prowess to “Barbaric,” it could become one of the most action-packed and exciting streaming series ever made. However, if he only directs the initial episodes, the challenge will be maintaining the same level of excitement throughout the series.
For fans of the “Barbaric” comic, there’s a wealth of material to draw from. The comic, created by writer Michael Moreci and artist Nathan Gooden, has been a massive hit since its launch in 2021. It features a talking demonic axe and a barbarian on a quest for redemption, themes that have resonated with readers. The comics have been collected into three volumes, selling over 500,000 units and translated into six languages. The success of the comic has even led to a spin-off series, “Queen of Swords.”
Netflix has picked up the series package and will develop it in collaboration with A+E Studios. The executive producing team includes Jennifer Klein, Turner’s partner at 100% Productions, F.J. DeSanto and Damian Wassel of Vault Comics, and Claflin through his production company Cusp Films. Barry Jossen and Tana Jamieson of A+E Studios round out the team.
Claflin, who will star as Owen, has a diverse acting portfolio, including his role as Finnick Odair in “The Hunger Games” series and his performance in the romantic drama “Me Before You.” He recently starred alongside Riley Keough in “Daisy Jones and the Six.” Claflin is represented by CAA, the UK’s Independent Talent Group, and Glaser Weil.
Patrick Stewart, who will voice the demonic axe, recently reprised his iconic role in “Star Trek: Picard.” Stewart is represented by CAA, Anonymous Content, and the UK’s Independent Talent Group.
Vault Comics, the publisher behind “Barbaric,” is represented by UTA, Industry Entertainment, and Weintraub Tobin. The collaboration between Bay, Turner, and Vault Comics brings together a powerhouse of talent and creativity, setting the stage for a potentially groundbreaking series.
As fans eagerly await more details, the anticipation for “Barbaric” continues to build. With Michael Bay at the helm and a stellar cast led by Sam Claflin and Patrick Stewart, the series promises to deliver a unique blend of fantasy, action, and Bay’s signature style. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting new project.
Source: The Hollywood Reporter, Variety
