Nicolas Winding Refn is set to direct a new version of Maniac Cop, with production scheduled to begin in January 2027. This project marks a revival of a franchise that had previously been attempted for television, with Refn also serving as an executive producer on that iteration.
Originally released in 1988, the first Maniac Cop film featured Robert Z’Dar as a vengeful ex-cop. Despite a notable cast including Bruce Campbell and Tom Atkins, the film did not achieve significant box office success, leading to two direct-to-video sequels.
Mubi will finance and distribute the film in North America and other regions. Following the success of Refn's recent work, the studio is committed to a theatrical release. Mubi's CEO, Efe Cakarel, emphasized that the project is not a remake but a “resurrection” under Refn’s direction. Refn has expressed a long-standing interest in the franchise, stating the current cultural landscape invites a “radical new vision” for the story.