Michaela Coel to Write & Direct A24's Bloodsport Remake

Michaela Coel to Write and Direct ‘Bloodsport’ Remake for A24

The ‘I May Destroy You’ creator is reimagining the 1988 Jean-Claude Van Damme cult classic for the powerhouse studio.

Sofia Chen

Mar 18, 2026, 11:03 AM PT · 1 min read

Michaela Coel — Photo: Desmond Herzfelder / CC BY 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons

THE RUNDOWN

Michaela Coel will write and direct a new version of the film Bloodsport.
A24 is officially financing and distributing the martial arts reimagining.
The original 1988 film served as the breakout role for Jean-Claude Van Damme.
Marc Toberoff is producing the project alongside executive producer Stuart Manashil.

A24 is bringing the Kumite back to the big screen. Michaela Coel is set to write and direct a reimagining of the 1988 martial arts cult classic, Bloodsport. The original film famously starred Jean-Claude Van Damme as Frank Dux, a U.S. Army captain who travels to Hong Kong to compete in a secret, underground fighting tournament.

Coel, the visionary behind the Emmy-winning series I May Destroy You, is taking the lead on the script and behind the camera for the project. "I have long been in awe of fighters, and astounded by the discipline, intensity and isolation the sport demands of them," Coel said regarding the announcement. She noted her excitement to "explore that world" with the team at A24, which is financing and distributing the film.

The production features a veteran team, with Marc Toberoff and Alberto Lensi serving as producers. Stuart Manashil and Peggy DiSalle are attached as executive producers. While the original Bloodsport was a low-budget hit that launched a franchise, this A24 collaboration signals a fresh, prestige approach to the beloved action property.