DC Studios’ new era has seen initial triumphs with titles like Superman and Peacemaker, but not all projects have progressed smoothly. Among the delayed movies is Sgt. Rock, a World War II-based DC story, reportedly involving Colin Farrell. As interest in James Gunn’s stewardship as co-head continues, Farrell recently gave an update on Sgt. Rock that contrasts with Gunn’s perspective on the film’s status and script development.
Colin Farrell’s Positive Take on the Sgt. Rock Script
During a recent appearance on the podcast Happy Sad Confused, Colin Farrell spoke about his involvement with Sgt. Rock and shared his thoughts on the screenplay. He referred to it as “a fantastic script,” expressing genuine admiration for the material. Farrell explained that he was initially set to star in the film with Luca Guadagnino attached as director and that discussions about the project had been promising.
“God, that was a fantastic script. I wonder what’s happening with it,”
Farrell said.
“I know nothing about it, brother. I was going to do it with Luca [Guadagnino]. We spoke about it a couple of times and had some really nice chats. I have no idea where it is now, but it should be made. It’s really, really good. There’s some wonderful stuff in it.”
— Colin Farrell, Actor
James Gunn’s Contrasting Viewpoint on Sgt. Rock’s Progress
In contrast to Farrell’s enthusiasm, James Gunn has conveyed a more cautious stance toward the Sgt. Rock project. While confirming that the film is still in active development this past summer, Gunn admitted that the script has not yet met his creative standards. He emphasized that for any DC Studios project to proceed, he must be satisfied with a finished screenplay, an approach that has delayed production plans for Sgt. Rock.
“wasn’t exactly where I wanted it to be creatively,”
Gunn remarked about the current state of Sgt. Rock’s script.
Gunn’s insistence on script readiness and quality control means Sgt. Rock remains in the editorial phase without a clear timeline for moving into production. Previously, there were reports suggesting filming might begin next summer, but those plans appear unlikely now. The recent departure of Luca Guadagnino as director means DC Studios must search for a new filmmaker whose vision aligns with the project’s eventual script. This director search may not begin until the screenplay satisfies Gunn’s expectations.
Implications of Director and Casting Changes for the Film
With Luca Guadagnino no longer attached to direct Sgt. Rock and Colin Farrell seemingly removed from discussions, the project faces multiple hurdles. The need for both a new director and lead actor could further delay the film’s development. These shifts highlight DC Studios’ broader strategy to ensure its projects demonstrate creative alignment and script excellence before advancing to production.
Why Sgt. Rock is a Unique DC Property with Strong Potential
Despite current uncertainties, Sgt. Rock remains an intriguing and distinct property within the DC universe. Unlike many heroes who possess extraordinary abilities, Sgt. Rock is a combat soldier rooted in the realities of World War II. His stories, originally popular in the comics, focus more on war drama than traditional superhero action, offering a refreshing change of tone for DC’s slate.
This unique blend of war narrative and heroism explains why Colin Farrell found the script compelling and why the concept has not lost its appeal even amid creative challenges. A successful adaptation could showcase Gunn’s ambition to diversify DC’s storytelling, embracing different genres and stylistic approaches beyond the expected superhero framework.
Future of Sgt. Rock Amid DC Studios’ Evolving Release Strategy
As DC Studios moves toward prioritizing quality over quantity by aiming for only one or two theatrical releases annually, Sgt. Rock faces an uphill path to release. With Man of Tomorrow and The Batman Part II scheduled for 2027, the earliest practical window for Sgt. Rock to premiere would be 2028 — assuming the script is finalized, a director found, and production begins soon.
However, James Gunn has recently stated he is hesitant to produce films centered on lesser-known characters, citing audience familiarity as a factor in project viability. Sgt. Rock, lacking widespread name recognition compared to icons like Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman, may struggle to secure priority in DC’s evolving lineup.
“certain movies with characters who [audiences] don’t know.”
— James Gunn, DC Studios Co-Head
Given these considerations and shifting box office patterns, DC Studios may opt to focus its resources on established characters to maintain financial stability and audience engagement. Sgt. Rock’s fate remains uncertain but will likely depend on the successful delivery of a script that meets Gunn’s criteria and the selection of a creative team aligned with that vision.
