Former WWE wrestler Dave Bautista brought a long-gestating action thriller to theaters after persevering through many delays. The movie “The Killer’s Game” is based on the novel of the same name by Jay Bonansinga. It follows an assassin named Joe Flood who must race against time to call off a hit he hired on himself after receiving a false terminal illness diagnosis.

The film project has been in development for over two decades. As early as 2002, New Line Cinema approached Wesley Snipes to star in the lead role after his success in “Blade II.” However, Snipes left in 2004 when the studio could not lock down a director. Paramount Pictures later got involved and tried to get the movie made with actor Michael Keaton and screenwriter Simon Kinberg, but their effort ended in 2006 with the shutdown of their partners.

Another attempt came in 2018 when Jason Statham nearly took the lead role at STX Films. But Statham pursued other opportunities, leaving the project in 2019. That’s when Dave Bautista signed on and proved committed to seeing the movie through. Industry analyst Sarah Jennings noted Bautista’s “willingness to stick with the project” stood out, as others moved on within a year or two but he stayed for four years through many delays.

A major breakthrough occurred in 2023. Lionsgate acquired the film rights, allowing production to finally start by setting dates and rounding out the cast surrounding Bautista. With a studio now invested, “The Killer’s Game” wrapped this fall after over two decades of stalled efforts.

The completion is especially noteworthy given the caliber of actors who had tried and failed to bring the story to screens. As the movie prepares for its 2024 release, all eyes will be on whether Bautista’s patience pays off at the box office. His leading role also gives him a chance to solidify his status as an action star if audiences embrace this long-awaited adaptation. Only time will tell if the film launches a new franchise or becomes just another long development story in Hollywood.

Tags: Action Comedy Dave Bautista Drew McIntyre J. J. Perry Pom Klementieff Sofia Boutella The Killer's Game