The Division (Ubisoft)
David Leitch is a director whose strength in filming action sequences elevated films like Deadpool 2. It was for this reason that fans of Ubisoft’s The Division series were excited when it was confirmed Leitch would direct the games’ cinematic adaption.
Speaking with Gamesradar and Total Film, Leitch discussed how he’s translating the world of the games to live-action film. In The Division, a smallpox epidemic infects Manhattan, and it spreads out of New York in the sequel. This premise resonates with the director, who praises its world as a compelling one. “For me, the DNA of the game is great,” Leitch said. “The world is compelling and the visuals are stunning, but also the premise of the game has this human quality and positivity about it, in terms of restarting humanity. We want to stay true to those things.”
However, the Division series includes elements of choice – something a film cannot replicate – and the games’ narrative will not be directly adapted. “In terms of narrative, we’ll have to stray from the games, because it’s choose-your-own adventure. We’ll have to pick a lane and we’re working on the script right now.”
Jake Gyllenhaal and Jessica Chastain have both been cast in the starring roles, and Leitch is penning the script with Rafe Judkins of Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. fame. Netflix will distribute the Division film.
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