Story perspectives

Netflix Halts Denzel Washington Hannibal Film Over Budget

6/5/2026

Summary

Denzel Washington Production Pause

Netflix has paused production on Denzel Washington’s untitled Hannibal war film because of budget concerns.
The film, written by John Logan and directed by Antoine Fuqua—marking their sixth collaboration—was scheduled to shoot in Italy this summer.
Denzel Washington, who also serves as producer, will portray Carthaginian general Hannibal in the Second Punic War story.
Netflix has not responded to The Independent’s request for comment on the production halt.

Summary

Denzel Washington Faces Backlash

Tunisian politicians have objected to actor Denzel Washington’s casting as Hannibal, saying it ignores the commander’s Semitic heritage.
Cinematographer Robert Richardson will shoot the film, which producers Erik Olsen, Adam Goldworm, Todd Black and Clayton Townsend are making with Washington’s Hill District Media under a Netflix deal.
Scouting at Rome’s Cinecittà Studios identified locations for Second Punic War scenes, prompting international debate over accurate portrayal of ancient North African figures.

Summary

Hannibal Production Delay

Deadline first reported the pre-production delay, showing industry awareness of the budget dispute.
The Hannibal project lists Scott Greenberg, Kat Samick, Katia Washington, Frank Moll and Jeremy Lott as executive producers.
The official logline calls Hannibal “widely regarded as one of the greatest military commanders in history,” indicating epic ambition.

1 of 3

Denzel Washington Production Pause

Netflix has paused production on Denzel Washington’s untitled Hannibal war film because of budget concerns.
The film, written by John Logan and directed by Antoine Fuqua—marking their sixth collaboration—was scheduled to shoot in Italy this summer.
Denzel Washington, who also serves as producer, will portray Carthaginian general Hannibal in the Second Punic War story.
Netflix has not responded to The Independent’s request for comment on the production halt.

1 / 3