What's Happening?
Netflix is set to release an animated series titled 'Splinter Cell: Deathwatch,' based on the popular video game franchise. Showrunner Derek Kolstad, known for his work on 'John Wick,' has shared insights into the creative process behind the series. Kolstad emphasized the need to 'rip the spine out of the source material' to create a show that honors the original games while also standing on its own. The series is set decades after the original games, and while it is not confirmed as canon, it aims to capture the essence of the franchise. Notably, the series will feature Liev Schreiber as the voice of Sam Fisher, a departure from the original voice actor, Michael Ironside. Kolstad praised Schreiber's previous performances and believed he would bring a fresh sound to the character.
Why It's Important?
The adaptation of 'Splinter Cell' into an animated series represents a significant move by Netflix to tap into the gaming community and expand its content offerings. By choosing a well-known franchise, Netflix aims to attract both fans of the original games and new viewers. The decision to cast Liev Schreiber and the creative liberties taken by Kolstad could influence the reception of the series, potentially setting a precedent for future adaptations of video games into other media. This move also highlights the growing trend of cross-media storytelling, where popular video game franchises are being reimagined for television and film, offering new opportunities for storytelling and audience engagement.
What's Next?
The series is scheduled to premiere on Netflix on October 14. As the release date approaches, fans and critics alike will be watching to see how the series is received, particularly in terms of its faithfulness to the source material and the performance of the new cast. The success of 'Deathwatch' could lead to further expansions of the 'Splinter Cell' universe, including potential sequels or spin-offs. Additionally, Ubisoft, the game's developer, is working on a remake of the original 'Splinter Cell' game, which could benefit from the increased interest generated by the series.
