Under David Ellison’s leadership, Paramount has secured its first major deal, partnering with Activision to develop a live-action film based on the blockbuster video game franchise 'Call of Duty.'
The surge in video game adaptations has only accelerated since 'The Super Mario Bros. Movie' crossed the $1 billion mark, and Paramount landing 'Call of Duty' is a significant move in that space. The franchise has been the top-selling video game series in the United States for 16 years, fueled in part by its sheer volume — 22 main entries plus countless spinoffs.
Still, the brand’s value lies more in its name than in its storytelling. 'Call of Duty' has never been about characters or continuity; each installment drops players into different wars and battlefields with the common thread of military combat. For Paramount, the real prize here is being able to market a war movie under the 'Call of Duty' banner.
“As a lifelong fan of 'Call of Duty,' this is truly a dream come true,” said Ellison. It’s believable as he seems like the type who has spent the last 20 years immersed in the games. The project could certainly result in a solid movie, and it is notable news, though the concept remains abstract, with many details still to be determined.
(h/t The Hollywood Reporter)
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