Michael Bay and Sydney Sweeney Team Up with Universal for Out Run Movie Adaptation — A Bold Revival of SEGA’s 1980s Arcade Classic

Universal Pictures is revving up a high-octane cinematic adaptation of SEGA’s legendary arcade racer Out Run, tapping Michael Bay to direct and Sydney Sweeney to produce the film, according to an exclusive report from Deadline. The project will be written by Jayson Rothwell, with Bay and longtime collaborator Brad Fuller serving as producers under their production banner.

While Sweeney’s involvement is currently limited to a production role, Deadline notes that there's a possibility she may also appear in the film. The partnership marks an unexpected but intriguing alignment of action, nostalgia, and contemporary star power—a combination that Universal hopes will position Out Run as the next big success in the growing trend of video game-to-film adaptations.

First released by SEGA in 1986, Out Run was an instant arcade sensation, celebrated for its iconic Ferrari Testarossa, branching paths, and sun-soaked aesthetic. Though it spawned sequels throughout the late ’80s and early 2000s, the franchise has largely been dormant, with its most recent major release being 3D OutRun for the Nintendo 3DS in 2014. Bringing the franchise back now, through the lens of Hollywood spectacle, reflects a growing appetite for reviving retro properties—particularly those with brand legacy, even if they’re not widely known to modern audiences.

Unlike contemporary hits such as Sonic the Hedgehog, The Super Mario Bros. Movie, or the upcoming Minecraft film—all of which target younger fans familiar with the source material—Out Run presents a unique challenge. The franchise isn’t exactly on the radar for today’s younger demographics. However, that may be part of Universal’s strategy: opting for a lesser-known IP allows for creative freedom while tapping into the nostalgic core of the arcade generation.

With Michael Bay at the helm, audiences can expect explosive action, stylized car chases, and a heavy dose of adrenaline—perfectly aligned with the spirit of Out Run. Sweeney’s involvement, coming off a streak of high-profile successes, adds contemporary appeal and marketability, potentially expanding the film’s demographic beyond nostalgic gamers.

The project's success will ultimately hinge on how Universal reimagines the paper-thin narrative of the original arcade racer into a compelling blockbuster format. But if the studio’s recent track record with video game adaptations is any indication, there is a strong chance Out Run could surprise both critics and the box office.

Would you watch a Michael Bay-directed Out Run movie? And what kind of storyline would you want to see wrapped around a classic arcade racer? Let us know in the comments!