Shadow of the Colossus Movie Still in Development, Director Andrés Muschietti Shares Update

The long-awaited Shadow of the Colossus movie adaptation isn’t dead yet. While the film has been in development limbo since its announcement in 2009, director Andrés Muschietti has confirmed that the project is still alive, though financing remains the biggest hurdle.

A Decade-Long Journey

Originally announced by Sony Pictures in 2009, the adaptation saw a shift in directors from Josh Trank in 2012 to Andrés Muschietti in 2014. For nearly a decade, news about the project remained nonexistent, leaving fans of Team Ico's masterpiece to assume it had been shelved. However, in a recent interview with Radio TU, Muschietti revealed his continued passion for the project and provided insight into its status.

"Shadow of the Colossus feels like a masterpiece. It's a project we've been developing for over 10 years... There's a script I really like, and we'll see if it ends up being the next project. It's definitely not abandoned; it's still alive and kicking."

Muschietti emphasized that the primary challenge lies in securing a budget that matches his ambitious vision. Ideally, he hopes for a $200 million budget, which he believes would allow the film to fully capture the immersive and epic nature of the game.

Challenges in the Gaming IP Adaptation Space

The film industry’s recent surge in adapting gaming IPs has primarily focused on high-profile, contemporary franchises such as Sony’s Horizon and Helldivers, which are backed by ongoing game releases. In contrast, Shadow of the Colossus, despite being a cult classic, hasn’t seen a new game installment since its 2018 PlayStation 4 remake by Bluepoint Games.

Muschietti acknowledged that this makes studios hesitant to fund the project at a blockbuster level, as the franchise's dormant status presents a higher financial risk.

The Legacy of Shadow of the Colossus

Originally released for the PlayStation 2 in 2005, Shadow of the Colossus is considered a masterpiece of interactive storytelling, thanks to its minimalist design, emotional depth, and breathtaking world-building. The game remains a landmark in gaming history, and fans have long yearned for its adaptation into other mediums.

With Muschietti’s recent successes, including It and It Chapter Two, and his willingness to champion the project, the film may still have a chance.

Do you think Shadow of the Colossus can translate its iconic emotional journey to the big screen? Would a $200M budget be justified for this adaptation? Let us know your thoughts!