Los Angeles, 2022-02-13 18:01:00
Spielberg’s “Bullitt” Reboot Hits a Roadblock
A planned reimagining of the classic Steve McQueen action film is currently on hold amid reported creative differences.
- Director Steven Spielberg initially envisioned a fresh take on the “Bullitt” story, not a direct remake.
- Reports suggest creative disagreements between Spielberg and Bradley Cooper, who was slated to star, have stalled the project.
- Spielberg is currently focused on post-production for “Disclosure Day,” set for release in June 2026.
- While the project isn’t canceled, its future remains uncertain, hinging on Spielberg’s continued involvement.
Steven Spielberg, the acclaimed director behind “Saving Private Ryan” and “E.T.,” once set his sights on reviving the iconic 1968 action thriller “Bullitt.” The plan wasn’t to simply recreate the Steve McQueen classic, but to forge a new, independent story centered around the stoic law enforcement officer Frank Bullitt, who first appeared in the novel “Police Station 52, New York.” However, that vision is now facing delays.
A New Direction for a Classic Character
In 2022, Spielberg announced his intention to develop a “Bullitt” reboot. The project aimed to present a standalone narrative, distinct from the original film, focusing on the character of Frank Bullitt as a taciturn investigator navigating a complex case. But, as of recently, the project has been put on hold.
Following the announcement that Bradley Cooper was being considered for the lead role in Spielberg’s action thriller, the project fell relatively quiet. Recent reports indicate creative differences have emerged between Spielberg and Cooper – a surprising development, given Spielberg’s role as a mentor to the actor and filmmaker, having supported Cooper’s own directorial ambitions.
According to Hollywood insider Jordan Ruimy, the project is currently stalled, with no immediate signs of progress. Should Spielberg decide to move forward, he has the flexibility to recast the role of Bullitt, as Cooper’s involvement was primarily as the lead actor.
Spielberg is presently immersed in post-production for “Disclosure Day,” starring Emily Blunt and Josh O’Connor, scheduled for release in German cinemas on June 11, 2026. It remains to be seen which project will capture his attention next, but the possibility of spectacular car chases returning to the big screen hasn’t been entirely ruled out.
Worth a look
