Justin Lin, the director of several Fast and Furious films, has been announced as the director of the live-action Helldivers film. In addition, the writer of several horror films, like Annabelle and I,t wrote the script for the video game adaptation.
As one of PlayStation’s newer series, Helldivers didn’t seem to hit its stride until 2024, when it became a worldwide phenomenon. The multiplayer sci-fi shooter was a viral sensation and still is in some ways. With constant updates and a recent port to Xbox, Arrowhead Studios’ hit felt primed for Hollywood. In January 2025, it was announced that the game would be brought to film by Sony Pictures. Updates went silent for a bit until now, where it’s been revealed that a high-profile director and writer are attached.
Justin Lin Directing Helldivers Film for Sony Pictures, Written by Gary Dauberman
In an exclusive from The Hollywood Reporter, the outlet revealed that Justin Lin has joined the Helldivers film as director. He will be adapting the project from a script written by Gary Dauberman. While additional crew and casting have yet to be revealed, the report says that Lin plans to bring out the ‘humanity’ of the game with timely themes and a built-out world. It also seems like the story will revolve around a squad of elite Helldivers taking on various creatures and the Super Earth.
If you’ve watched any Fast and Furious movie from the 2010s, it’s likely been directed by Justin Lin. The filmmaker is a hit with action-film fans and a notable name in the genre. Currently, Lin is set to direct Keanu Reeves in BRZRKR and adapt One Punch Man into a film. For Gary Dauberman, the scribe has been behind some of horror’s recent hits like It (and its sequel, It Chapter Two), Annabelle, and Until Dawn. All that said, it’ll be interesting to see how Helldivers shapes up.
What do you think of the Helldivers film news? Think Justin Lin is a good fit as the film’s director? Who do you hope is cast in the film? Leave a comment below and on the official Insider Gaming Discord!
For more film adaptation news, check out the coverage on Prime Video’s God of War and Sonic the Hedgehog. Make sure to subscribe to Insider Gaming’s weekly newsletter!
