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The legendary cult film “Robocop” is returning to screens – but this time as a series on Prime Video. Who’s involved and what’s this new version about?
Amazon Prime Video has officially confirmed that the iconic RoboCop franchise will continue as a series. The streaming service has ordered a full eight-episode season, aiming to revive one of its most beloved titles from the MGM library. The classic story of the cyborg cop is getting a fresh look for the television era – and those involved are setting high standards for the production.
A strong team for the series launch
The production unites experienced names both behind and in front of the camera. Peter Ocko, who previously proved his talent with the critically acclaimed HBO series “The Leftovers,” is on board as showrunner, writer, and executive producer. James Wan, 49, known to many for “The Conjuring,” “Saw,” and “Aquaman,” will direct and produce. He is enthusiastic: “It’s a dream come true for me to be involved in bringing this world to television.” Ed Neumeier, 68, is also returning as co-writer of the original 1987 screenplay and executive producer. It’s a strong team that combines experience with the franchise while also venturing into new territory.
The vision behind the series: Between cult and zeitgeist
The new RoboCop series follows a cult film that set standards at the time with its portrayal of technology, identity, and large corporations. James Wan sums it up perfectly:
“What Paul Verhoeven created in 1987 was decades ahead of its time, and the questions it raised about technology, identity, and the true interests of corporations have since become even more urgent.”
According to the team, the series aims to “live up to the cult status of the original and underline its relevance in our modern, technology-driven world, while at the same time creating something unmistakably new for a global audience.” Thus, the reboot promises many fresh approaches, rather than mere repetition.
From 1987 to today: RoboCop remains a cult classic.
Since its theatrical release in 1987, directed by Paul Verhoeven (88 years old), “RoboCop” has been a staple of the science fiction genre. Peter Weller, who played the lead role back then, is now 79 years old. Besides the original film, there have been two animated series, two live-action TV versions, numerous video games, and comics. In 2014, a reboot starring Joel Kinnaman (46) brought the story back to the big screen. Despite the many adaptations, “RoboCop” remains one of the flagship titles in the MGM library – a symbol that continues to appeal to new generations. Who will play the legendary cyborg this time around is not yet known.
The series is part of Amazon’s strategy to repurpose the library’s valuable brands following its 2022 acquisition of MGM. The cult status of the RoboCop franchise provides an ideal foundation for this.
It remains exciting to see how the series sheds new light on the topics of technology, identity, and economic interests, thereby captivating modern audiences worldwide.