James Bobin, noted for his work on Disney’s The Muppets films, is being considered to direct the Ryan Reynolds Dragon’s Lair Netflix movie adaptation, an upcoming project based on the classic arcade video game. The adaptation, set to feature and be produced by Reynolds, continues the growing trend of video game franchises being reimagined for streaming audiences.
James Bobin in Talks to Helm Dragon’s Lair Live-Action Film
According to The Hollywood Reporter, James Bobin is in discussions to direct Netflix’s live-action take on Dragon’s Lair. The project has been in process since Netflix acquired adaptation rights in 2020. In addition to starring, Ryan Reynolds will serve as a producer, with Roy Lee from Vertigo Entertainment and Trevor Engelson of Underground also joining the production team. Other notable producers include Don Bluth and Gary Goldman, further strengthening the creative group guiding the film’s development.
The Dragon’s Lair video game, originally released in 1983, made a significant impact in arcades across the U.S. and quickly became a frontrunner among gaming enthusiasts during the 1980s. Over time, the franchise expanded with sequels such as Dragon’s Lair II: Time Warp and Dragon’s Lair 3D: Return to the Lair. The popularity even led to an animated television series on ABC, although the show had a brief run in late 1984.
Innovative Approach Behind the Netflix Adaptation
Ryan Reynolds shed light on the development of the Dragon’s Lair Netflix adaptation during a November 2022 interview with Collider, expressing his appreciation for Netflix’s collaborative spirit regarding the project.
“in a spirit of partnership that I’ve never really seen before.”
—Ryan Reynolds, Actor and Producer
Reynolds also indicated the ambitious scale of the project would likely take audiences by surprise and showed his personal intrigue as the adaptation progressed. He described the unique integration of technology in the creative process, noting its innovation within the entertainment sector.
“It really intersects in a unique way with technology that I’ve never been privy to in the entertainment industry. So they’re taking some kind of pretty innovative stabs at this particular IP in a way that I’m blown away with. And I’m excited that they’re as along for the ride as we are.”
—Ryan Reynolds, Actor and Producer
Anticipated Impact and Next Steps
The involvement of an accomplished director like James Bobin and the enthusiasm of producers such as Roy Lee, Trevor Engelson, Don Bluth, and Gary Goldman signal high expectations for the Ryan Reynolds Dragon’s Lair Netflix movie adaptation. With the participation of Netflix and an all-star creative team, the forthcoming film is poised to bring new life and innovation to the well-established game franchise. Audiences can anticipate further outlines of the project’s development as production plans advance in the coming months.
