"Lionheart" Japanese Theatrical Poster
Back in 2014, it was reported that Albert Pyun – filmmaker of cult classic films such as Cyborg (1989) and Nemesis (1992) – was approached about directing a remake of Jean-Claude Van Damme’s Lionheart (1990). But now, we have word that Pyun is no longer attached; nonetheless, a remake is still moving forward. Very forward.
According to Impact’s Mike Leeder, Moonstone Entertainment and producer Etchie Stroh (Falcon Rising) have the Lionheart remake listed in pre-production and it’s scheduled to shoot before the end of the year. At this time, there is no information regarding the film’s potential cast or crew.
The original Lionheart (also known as Leon, A.W.O.L. and Wrong Bet), directed by Sheldon Lettich (Double Impact), is considered a favorite amongst Van Damme fans because of its heartfelt plot laced with hard-hitting violence. The film follows a soldier (Van Damme) who deserts his assignment in the French Foreign Legion after he hears about the brutal murder of his brother. He then travels to the United States and competes in a series of illegal hand-to-hand fighting competitions to aid his widowed sister-in-law (Lisa Pelikan), who is now struggling to care for her daughter (Last of Us’ Ashley Johnson).
In addition to Lionheart, many of Van Damme’s other titles – such as Bloodsport (1988) and Timecop (1994) – are currently being developed for a remake/reboot (read our article The Most ‘Remade’ Action Star in the World). Kickboxer Vengeance, a remake of Kickboxer (1989), is only months away from being released.
We’ll keep you updated on the Lionheart remake as we hear more. Stay tuned.
