SDCC: Len Wiseman to Direct ‘Shrapnel’ Adaptation

The Hollywood Reporter has revealed that Len Wiseman, whose past credits include Underworld and Live Free or Die Hard and who is currently prepping the live-action Gears of War, has signed on to develop and direct a film adaptation of the graphic novel Shrapnel for Radical Pictures.

Shrapnel, which was teased last year during Comic-Con by Radical Publishing, describes a sci-fi future where humans have colonized the solar system and have formed a Solar Alliance to govern all planets. The story focuses on Venus, the last rebellious holdout, where a self-exiled former Marine teaches the colonists how to fight back.

Wiseman stumbled upon the property while shopping for comics with his 10-year-old daughter, Lily. Soon thereafter, his agent at ICM was scouting the rights.

“I am really drawn to the reluctant-hero story,” said Wiseman, who noted that the last hero he directed — John McClane in “Live Free or Die Hard” — fit that archetypal mold.

Nick Sagan and Zombie Studios chief Mark Long created the property. Radical principal Barry Levine will produce with Wiseman and Mark Gordon. Long and Radical’s Jesse Berger will exec produce. Although Shrapnel is currently being developed as a live-action pic, a 3D approach could be possible. Zombie Studios is planning the video game.