Movie and TV adaptations based on video games have seen a rise in popularity in recent years, which is continuing with a new imminent entry in Twisted Metal directly from PlayStation Studios.
Having spawned eight different games and two spin-offs for PlayStation consoles since 1995, Twisted Metal gives fans the experience of an intense demolition derby with every choice of weapon imaginable to use. While story details for the TV show are a mystery, PlayStation has a chance to bring thrilling visuals and action sequences that could rival classic racing outings like The Fast and the Furious.
Hoping to earn the same level of success as other recent video game entries like Pokémon: Detective Pikachu and Sonic The Hedgehog, Twisted Metal will look to deliver a new form of storytelling with a high-octane adventure.
Thus far, the show's cast only boasts one cameo in Will Arnett, who will be voicing the classic character Sweet Tooth while also acting as an executive producer. That changes, however, with the addition of one of the biggest names in superhero movies now playing the leading role.
Anthony Mackie Lands Next Gig
Deadline confirmed that MCU star Anthony Mackie has signed on to play the leading role of John Doe in the Twisted Metal series produced by Sony Pictures Television and PlayStation Productions. Mackie will also serve as an executive producer on the series, joining Will Arnett and Deadpool writers Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick, who are penning the film's script.
Head of PlayStation Productions Asad Qizilbash expressed his excitement about bringing Mackie onto the project, stating that his brand of action and comedy will be "perfect" for the series:
“We’re thrilled to have Anthony Mackie on board. His ability to blend comedy, action and drama is perfect for the Twisted world we’re creating.”
Glenn Adilman, EVP Comedy Development at Sony TV, also commented on Mackie's "phenomenal body of work" from recent years and reiterated that he was the ideal choice for the role:
“We’ve been big fans of Anthony’s phenomenal body of work over the years and knew he was the only actor who could play a character as complex, funny and compelling as John Doe. Fortunately for us, he agreed.”
Captain America Joins the Twisted Metal Mayhem
Even with an already hectic schedule over the coming years, Anthony Mackie appears ready to go for yet another big addition to his resume.
The megastar is best known for playing the role of Sam Wilson in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, who acted as the Falcon in six movies before taking the mantle of Captain America in 2021's The Falcon and the Winter Soldier on Disney+. While his next appearance is a mystery right now, Mackie is already signed on to continue playing the role in Captain America 4, penned by Malcolm Spellman.
For Twisted Metal, John Doe is said to be a talkative milkman with a chance to find a home if he can survive the onslaught coming in the movie's crazy car race/battle. With Mackie known for being an expert at comedy and action thanks to his time in the MCU, it appears that he will be able to fit seamlessly into this new challenge.
With no timeline for production or release, the wait now begins to see exactly who will join the cast alongside the MCU regular. Fans will be anxious to find out more information on that front over the coming months, although Mackie's inclusion should help pique interest from other big names.