Netflix is developing a sequel to the action film War Machine, following the movie’s strong performance on the platform. The original sci-fi military thriller starred Alan Ritchson as a staff sergeant taking part in a simulated mission who comes face-to-face with a terrifying supernatural killing machine. The film was released on Netflix on March 26 and has since drawn 139 million views, placing it among the streamer’s ten most popular original films. It currently ranks at number ten on Netflix’s all-time list, with the possibility of climbing to ninth as viewing totals continue to be counted through the 91-day measurement period.
Patrick Hughes, who directed The Hitman’s Bodyguard and The Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard, is set to return to direct the sequel. He will also co-write the screenplay with James Beaufort and produce the film alongside Todd Lieberman through Hidden Pictures, Rich Cook of Range Media Partners, Greg McLean through the Huge Film banner, and Alex Young for Hidden Pictures. Valerie Bleth Sharp will serve as executive producer.
The story for the follow-up has not yet been revealed. The ending of the first film left room for continuation, but it is not yet clear whether Ritchson will reprise his role. Ritchson has become widely known for playing the lead in Amazon Prime Video’s Reacher and for portraying Hank Hall/Hawk in Titans across DC Universe and HBO Max. The first War Machine ensemble cast also included Dennis Quaid, Stephan James, Jai Courtney, and Esai Morales.
The movie received mixed reviews after its release, with some critics praising its action and escapist appeal while others described it as formulaic. Still, its large audience turnout made it one of Netflix’s standout original film successes and helped push the streamer to move forward with a sequel.
