Table of Contents
Sleeping Dogs Film Adaptation Gains New Momentum
Video game adaptations remain one of Hollywood’s most unpredictable endeavours. Even with recognisable IP and star power, projects often stall due to shifting priorities, financing hurdles, or creative uncertainty. The Sleeping Dogs film adaptation has long stood as a prime example of that volatility.
Once positioned as a star-driven action project, the film appeared to be quietly fading away. Now, however, it is showing clear signs of renewed life.
From Donnie Yen to a Fresh Creative Direction
The Sleeping Dogs movie was previously associated with Donnie Yen, whose involvement once suggested a high-profile martial arts showcase. That momentum stalled years ago, with Yen later implying that the project had effectively collapsed.
Recent comments and activity from Simu Liu, however, suggested that the adaptation was quietly being revived behind the scenes. That revival has now taken a significant step forward.
Timo Tjahjanto Confirmed as Director
Simu Liu has officially confirmed that Timo Tjahjanto will direct the Sleeping Dogs film. Tjahjanto is widely respected for his uncompromising approach to action cinema, most notably through The Night Comes for Us, which has earned cult status for its brutal choreography and relentless pacing.
He has also recently worked on the action comedy Nobody 2, further establishing his position as one of the most in-demand directors for modern, hard-hitting action films.
Simu Liu Expected to Play Wei Shen
While casting has not been formally announced, Simu Liu is widely expected to portray Wei Shen, the undercover Hong Kong cop at the heart of the original game. According to Liu, a draft of the film’s story already exists, suggesting that the project is further along creatively than many assumed.
It remains unclear whether the adaptation will closely follow the game’s original narrative or take a looser, inspired-by approach.
The Sleeping Dogs film adaptation still does not have a confirmed release window, but the attachment of a director with a distinct action identity marks the strongest sign of progress in years. With key creative leadership now in place, the long-dormant project appears closer than ever to becoming a reality.
