Starship Troopers is Getting a Reboot, Based on the 1959 Sci-Fi Novel

The beloved cult classic Starship Troopers is gearing up for a return to the big screen, with District 9 director Neill Blomkamp set to write and direct a new adaptation of the sci-fi franchise. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Sony’s Columbia Pictures has tapped Blomkamp for the project, with his wife and frequent collaborator, Terri Tatchell, producing alongside him.

Unlike Paul Verhoeven’s 1997 satirical film, which took a tongue-in-cheek approach to Robert A. Heinlein’s 1959 novel, Blomkamp’s version is expected to stay closer to the book’s original themes. Heinlein’s Starship Troopers was a militaristic space opera that has sparked debates over its political undertones, particularly regarding its depiction of citizenship being tied to military service.

Verhoeven’s 1997 adaptation, which starred Casper Van Dien as Johnny Rico, was initially a box office disappointment, grossing only $121 million worldwide against a reported $101-110 million budget. However, it developed a cult following over the years, leading to several direct-to-video sequels and video game adaptations, including Starship Troopers: Extermination, where Van Dien reprised his role.

Blomkamp is no stranger to sci-fi, having directed District 9, Elysium, and Chappie. While District 9 was praised for its satirical take on social issues, it remains unclear how much satire, if any, will be incorporated into this reboot. Given Blomkamp’s previous failed attempts at reviving legacy franchises like Alien and RoboCop, fans will be eager to see if Starship Troopers finally brings one of his visions to full realization.

Cord Cutters looking to watch the original Starship Troopers in anticipation can currently find the 1997 classic streaming on Prime Video and MGM+.

When Can We Expect It?

Sony has not yet announced a release date for Blomkamp’s Starship Troopers. Given that the 30th anniversary of Verhoeven’s film is coming up in 2027, it’s possible that Sony could be eyeing that milestone for the reboot’s debut.

Stay tuned for more updates as this highly anticipated sci-fi revival takes shape.