Actors Dave Bautista and Samuel L. Jackson are set to take on roles in the upcoming film adaptation of the comic series Afterburn. Bautista, known for his roles in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 and Dune: Part Two, and Jackson, recognised for his appearances in The Avengers and Argylle, will reportedly headline the post-apocalyptic action-adventure based on the Red 5 Comics graphic novels created by Scott Chitwood and Wayne Nichols. Joining them is director J.J. Perry, known for his work on the John Wick and Fast and Furious franchises, as well as his direction of the upcoming film The Killer’s Game for Lionsgate. “The combination of Dave Bautista and Sam Jackson in an epic adventure is a sure-fire proposition for the international marketplace,” added John Friedberg for Black Bear, who are handling international sales.
The story of Afterburn is set in a world devastated by a solar superflare that wipes out the Eastern hemisphere, leaving behind a landscape of destruction and mutation due to radiation exposure. Amidst the chaos, remnants of valuable treasures remain, attracting adventurers like Jake and his team of treasure hunters who venture into the Burn Zone to retrieve these prized possessions for wealthy clients in the West. Their journey is fraught with peril as they encounter rival raiders, mutant scavengers, and other dangers while pursuing lucrative rewards. However, their latest job in China proves to be their most challenging yet.
As reported by Deadline, Bautista portrays the role of Jake, a former soldier turned treasure hunter, who partners with freedom fighter Drea, played by Jackson, in a mission to recover the Mona Lisa before it falls into the hands of a deranged warlord. In the comic, Jake’s story begins aboard an offshore rig in the North Sea, where he is shielded from the solar flare’s radiation. A year later, he and his team confront mutants, mercenaries, and warring mutant pirate factions as they navigate treacherous territories in pursuit of their objectives.
Behind the scenes, the film is backed by producers Neal H. Moritz and Toby Jaffe of Original Film, along with Steve Richards of Endurance Media. Bautista also serves as a producer under his Dogbone banner. Jaffe expressed enthusiasm for the project, citing its blend of action and world-building reminiscent of popular franchises like Indiana Jones and Children of Men. He praised Perry’s expertise in practical stunt work and highlighted Bautista’s prowess as both an action star and a versatile actor.
“Afterburn is a terrific action story, combining the fun of Indiana Jones with the near future world building of Children of Men,” Jaffe said in a statement.
“J.J. is going to bring this to life in a thrilling way, using real practical stunt work to create authentic, visceral set pieces. Dave is one of the leading action stars in the world today, as well as being an actor with real soul and versatility. So excited to be making Afterburn with them both,” reports Comicbook.
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