Kitao Sakurai, the creative mind behind the acclaimed “The Eric Andre Show,” is set to take on a new challenge as the director of the upcoming Legendary Entertainment feature film adaptation of Capcom’s beloved video game, “Street Fighter.”
Capcom, the original developer and publisher of the iconic game series, is actively involved in the adaptation, collaborating with Legendary Entertainment to bring this project to life. Scheduled for release on March 20, 2026, by Sony Pictures, this highly anticipated film is expected to breathe new life into the legendary franchise.
Originating in 1987 with the arcade classic “Street Fighter,” the series rose to fame with the groundbreaking “Street Fighter II” in 1991, setting a new standard for fighting games with its diverse characters and unique fighting styles. The most recent installment, “Street Fighter 6,” released in June 2023, continues to captivate fans and critics alike, earning recognition as the best fighting game at the prestigious 2023 Game Awards.
This isn’t the first time Hollywood has ventured into adapting “Street Fighter” for the big screen. Past attempts, including the infamous 1994 version starring Jean-Claude Van Damme, have had mixed success. However, with Kitao Sakurai at the helm, accompanied by the support of Capcom and Legendary Entertainment, this new adaptation promises to be a fresh and exciting take on the beloved franchise.
Sakurai’s recent collaborations with comedy legend Eric Andre on projects like the hit film “Bad Trip” showcase his talent for crafting engaging and entertaining content. Additionally, his work on popular shows like “Beef” for Netflix and A24, as well as upcoming projects like Amazon Prime Video’s “Butterfly,” demonstrate his versatility and creative vision in the entertainment industry.
Represented by UTA and 3 Arts, Kitao Sakurai’s involvement in the “Street Fighter” adaptation signals a promising direction for the film. With his unique storytelling approach and track record of success, Sakurai is poised to deliver a cinematic experience that will resonate with both dedicated fans and newcomers to the franchise.
In conclusion, Kitao Sakurai’s appointment as the director of the “Street Fighter” adaptation marks an exciting new chapter for the beloved video game series. With his creative prowess and passion for storytelling, Sakurai is poised to bring a fresh perspective to this iconic franchise, captivating audiences worldwide with his unique vision. Stay tuned for updates on this highly anticipated film as it continues to evolve under Sakurai’s guidance.