Full Breakdown
Sony Pictures Moves Forward with “Renegades” Adaptation
7/18/2026, 12:34:39 AM
Sony Pictures Acquires “Renegades” for Film Adaptation
Sony Pictures has secured the rights to “Renegades,” a short story by writer-producer Will Simmons. The project is described as an action-thriller, though plot details remain undisclosed. Hutch Parker, known for his work on the *Venom* and *X-Men* franchises, will produce the film under his existing deal with the studio.
Creative Team and Production Leadership
Long-time collaborators Jonathan Goldstein and John Francis Daley (the directing duo behind *Mayday*) have been attached to direct the adaptation. Their involvement follows a series of high-profile assignments, including development of the next *Star Trek* film for Paramount. Goldstein and Daley are represented by WME, Fourth Wall Management, and Hansen Jacobson.
Will Simmons’ Recent Writing Portfolio
Simmons brings a robust résumé to the project. He previously adapted Robert Kirkman’s graphic novel *Hardcore* for Universal, with Skybound producing and Adam Wingard directing. His original feature spec *Undo* sold to New Line, where Beau Flynn is producing and Joost & Schulman are slated to direct. Sony also purchased his short story “Caliber,” to be produced by Escape Artists, with Simmons set to adapt. Additional credits include a *Sleepy Hollow* remake and a reboot of *Internal Affairs* for Paramount, as well as the upcoming production *They Like the Dark*—set to begin filming this fall with Liam Hemsworth starring and Scott Free producing. Simmons is represented by CAA and Untitled Entertainment.
Goldstein & Daley’s Recent Directorial Work
The duo’s latest release, *Mayday*, a Cold War-era buddy action comedy starring Ryan Reynolds and Kenneth Branagh, began streaming on Apple TV on September 4. Their filmography also includes *Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves*, *Vacation*, and *Game Night*, underscoring a track record of commercially successful genre projects.
Anticipated Timeline and Industry Context
While Sony has not announced a production start date for *Renegades*, the attachment of established talent and a seasoned producer suggests the film is moving toward development. The acquisition adds to Sony’s slate of action-thriller adaptations and reflects the studio’s ongoing strategy to leverage emerging literary properties for cinematic expansion.
