The Sleeping Dogs Movie IS in Development and We’re Hearing Shang-Chi Star Simu Liu Is Set to Play Wei Shen

Simu Liu, the Marvel Cinematic Universe star, has ignited excitement among fans of the acclaimed video game Sleeping Dogs with his announcement of involvement in bringing the game to the silver screen. However, the project's progress is more advanced than initially suggested.

A source close to the production has confirmed to IGN that a Sleeping Dogs movie is indeed under development. Simu Liu, known for his portrayal of Shang-Chi, is not only attached to star as Wei Shen but is also serving as a producer.

IGN has reached out to Square Enix for an official statement.

Initially released in 2012 for PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and PC, Sleeping Dogs captivated players with its compelling narrative of undercover detective Wei Shen infiltrating a Hong Kong Triad. Despite failing to meet Square Enix's sales expectations, the game garnered a dedicated fanbase, fueling persistent calls for a sequel.

Liu's tweet announcing his involvement caused initial confusion among fans, prompting a clarifying statement from Liu himself, revealing his ambition to spearhead not only the film but also a potential Sleeping Dogs video game sequel.

"So few film projects make it from pitch phase to greenlight," Liu stated. "Pitching execs who don’t understand the game has been tiring. Everyone’s overwhelming love of Sleeping Dogs here has really given us life! First a movie, then a sequel game for everyone… that’s always been the dream.”

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11 ImagesIGN can reveal that Story Kitchen is leading the Sleeping Dogs live-action film, with Square Enix holding the rights. Story Kitchen boasts experience in video game adaptations, having contributed to projects such as the Sonic the Hedgehog films and Netflix's animated Tomb Raider series. They are also currently working on adaptations of Streets of Rage and It Takes Two.

Last year, Story Kitchen announced a film adaptation of Square Enix's Just Cause, with Ángel Manuel Soto (director of Blue Beetle) attached. While a writer and prominent filmmaker are involved in the Sleeping Dogs project, IGN understands that a release date and production start date are yet to be determined.

This film signifies a significant resurgence for Sleeping Dogs, whose sequel was canceled in late 2013, and its original developer, United Front Games, closed three years later. Over a decade later, Sleeping Dogs is poised for a cinematic comeback.