Here’s The Wrap reporting that the long-gestating “Sgt. Rock” film, which had Luca Guadagnino attached as director and Justin Kuritzkes set to write the script, has been canceled at Warner Bros.
Colin Farrell, who already inhabits a role in the DC world as The Penguin, was being considered for the lead after Daniel Craig stepped away from the part. Mike Faist (“Challengers”) was reportedly attached in a supporting role.
Guadagnino’s film was ready to shoot this summer, and was in pre-production in the U.K. as it planned a shoot in England. While no clear reason has been given for its cancellation, insiders maintain that the decision wasn’t financial—the film was projected to cost under $70M, relatively modest for a comic book adaptation.
Guadagnino was very serious about making his DCU movie — he attached trusted collaborator Sayombhu Mukdeeprom as his cinematographer on “Sgt. Rock.” Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross were going to score the film. Costume designer Jonathan Anderson (“Challengers,”” Queer”) was set to join them along for the ride.
Sgt. Rock, the grizzled World War II hero, first appeared in the June 1959 issue of Our Army at War and was the creation of Robert Kanigher and Joe Kubert. Known for his sharpshooting skills, moral compass, and leadership of Easy Company, the character has long been considered a compelling figure for live-action.
The canceled film would’ve followed Sgt Rock trying to find the Spear of Destiny, the spear used to stab Jesus during his crucifixion, before the Nazis found it.
Meanwhile, Luca Guadagnino remains busy. He’s finishing post production on “After the Hunt,” starring Julia Roberts for Amazon MGM, and has multiple projects lined up, including reimaginings of “American Psycho” and “Lord of the Flies,” as well as an adaptation of Pier Vittorio Tondelli’s “Separate Rooms” starring Josh O’Connor and Lea Seydoux.
UPDATE: Word is that “Sgt. Rock” might have canceled its upcoming shoot, but sources are claiming that, with or without Guadagnino, the aim is to now start production in the summer of 2026.