Taylor Sheridan and Peter Berg are set to collaborate once again on a feature film adaptation of the popular video game Call of Duty. The announcement comes as Sheridan, creator of Yellowstone, and Berg, known for Friday Night Lights, sign on to co-write the script with Berg directing the project. The film is being developed in partnership with Paramount Pictures and Activision, the publisher behind the successful game franchise.
Previous Collaborations Highlight Their Partnership
Sheridan and Berg have a proven track record of working together on critically acclaimed projects. Their joint work includes the 2017 film Wind River, which saw renewed interest on streaming platforms, as well as the 2016 movie Hell or Highwater. The latter earned four Academy Award nominations, including for Best Picture and Best Screenplay. Their combined experience in creating intense, action-driven stories sets the stage for the Call of Duty adaptation.
Strong Backgrounds in Action and Thriller Genres
Sheridan’s writing includes notable action films such as Sicario and its sequel, while Berg has directed various thrillers and war-themed movies like Mile 22, Lone Survivor, and the action-comedy Spenser Confidential. This blend of creative strengths positions them well to bring the dynamic and often high-stakes world of Call of Duty to the big screen with authenticity and impact.
Call of Duty’s Legacy as a Leading Video Game Franchise
The Call of Duty series has dominated the U.S. video game market, holding the title of best-selling franchise for 16 years running. Globally, it has sold over 500 million copies, attracting hundreds of millions of players worldwide. Despite this massive success, specific plot details or characters for the upcoming movie remain under wraps. The game series traditionally focuses on military conflicts, spanning historical periods such as World War II and the Cold War, along with futuristic scenarios, providing abundant material for adaptation.
Earlier Movie Plans and Industry Developments
Interest in a Call of Duty film surfaced earlier this year, including reports that Paramount declined a pitch from Steven Spielberg to direct an adaptation. Sheridan’s involvement signals a new phase in the project, aligning with his expanding role in both TV and film at Paramount. However, Sheridan is preparing for a significant career transition, as he is leaving Paramount to begin a multi-year deal with NBCUniversal starting in 2029, where he will develop new intellectual properties for film, television, and streaming.
Taylor Sheridan’s Evolving Career Path in Entertainment
Beginning his Hollywood journey as an actor, Sheridan has become a highly influential television creator during the past decade. His current deal with Paramount, extending through 2028, has led to a number of TV series including Mayor of Kingstown, Landman, Special Ops: Lioness, Tulsa King, and multiple Yellowstone spinoffs like The Madison, 1883, and 1923. While Sheridan’s television portfolio is extensive, his feature film work has been more limited, with credits including the 2021 film Those Who Wish Me Dead and an upcoming thriller titled F.A.S.T., featuring Brandon Sklenar.
Future Implications of the Call of Duty Film Project
The collaboration between Sheridan and Berg on a Call of Duty adaptation presents a major opportunity to bridge the gap between blockbuster gaming and cinematic storytelling. With their combined expertise in crafting compelling and intense narratives, the project could redefine how video game franchises are translated onto screen. Fans and the industry alike will be watching closely as more details emerge and production progresses, signaling a potential milestone in entertainment cross-media ventures.
