Photo credit: movieweb.com
A new spin-off series has been announced for one of Tom Hardy’s standout films, Warrior, but director Gavin O’Connor is facing challenges in securing a streaming platform for the project. The original movie, released in 2011, features Hardy as Thomas “Tommy” Riordan Conlon, a former soldier turned MMA fighter. The film follows his intense rivalry with his estranged brother, Brendan Conlon, played by Joel Edgerton, as they compete in a high-stakes mixed martial arts tournament.
O’Connor, who both directed and co-wrote the original film, has been developing the spin-off for several years. Despite the evident demand for another compelling MMA drama, he has disclosed that he is struggling to gain traction with studios. In a recent discussion, he shared…
“When we began, we had backing from Paramount+. We developed a script, and then, inexplicably, they shifted their focus elsewhere. I can’t fully understand how that happened. But with the script ready, it encapsulates what the series aims to achieve, introducing all main characters except one.
“We then turned to HBO Max, but, again, they chose to go in another direction. So, I am on the lookout for a platform. Excluding Warrior, I’ve never been more passionate about a project than I am for this TV series. I sincerely hope to find it a suitable home.”
Understanding the ‘Warrior’ Spin-off
In detailing his frustrating quest to secure a platform for Warrior, which is set to be titled Warriors, O’Connor unveiled the series’ premise. Similar to the original film, Warriors will revolve around four new fighters—two men and two women—who are on a path towards an ultimate showdown at the Sparta tournament, the same battleground depicted in the film.
“The essence of Warrior was rooted in the story of two brothers destined to clash in the Sparta tournament. Hence, the series is named Warriors because it borrows that concept, introducing two male and two female fighters. While they are athletes, the narrative will delve into their personal struggles outside the ring. We aim to narrate their lives as they prepare to face each other at Sparta. This is the vision I have, and I’m eager to find a suitable platform that can see what I envision for the show. There’s truly nothing comparable on television today.”
As fans await a favorable update on Warriors, Gavin O’Connor is busy promoting his latest action-packed sequel, The Accountant 2. This film features Ben Affleck and Jon Bernthal, who portray characters linked by a complex relationship—a recurring theme in O’Connor’s storytelling. The Accountant 2 made its theatrical debut on April 25, and discussions for a third installment are already underway.
Source: THR
Release Date
September 9, 2011
Runtime
140 Minutes
Writers
Cliff Dorfman, Anthony Tambakis
Source
movieweb.com