Netflix is all about action after finding success with The Recruit and the launch of The Night Agent, starring Gabriel Basso. To capitalize on its audience’s thirst for blood, bullets, and revenge, Netflix is giving the green light to an eight-episode series order to an adaptation of Man on Fire. Netflix’s Man on Fire TV series is based on the first two of the five books in A.J. Quinnell’s series and follows features that similarly adapt the author’s works, also known as Philip Nicholson.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, the series “tells the story of John Creasy, a broken ex-mercenary on a mission to avenge the death of his only friend, while protecting his fallen comrade’s daughter from the forces that destroyed her family.”
Tony Scott directed a version of Man on Fire in 2004, starring Denzel Washington as John Creasy, while Glen Scott played the character in a 1987 Italian feature. Fear Street: Part One – 1994 writer Kyle Killen will write, executive produce, and showrun Netflix’s Man on Fire TV series. The project stems from New Regency Productions and Chernin Entertainment. Joining Killen to executive produce are Chernin’s Peter Chernin, Jenno Topping, former USA/Syfy/Peacock head of originals president Bill McGoldrick, and Juan Alfonso.
Since last year, Netflix’s Man on Fire TV series has been in the works, with Netflix searching for talent to spearhead the adaptation. The project is a significant undertaking for Killen. Still, it’s the perfect vehicle to strut his stuff and show the streamer what he’s working with. The 2004 film starring Denzel Washington grossed $130M worldwide against a $60M budget.
Man on Fire is an excellent blend of action, drama, and inner turmoil. John Creasy is a tortured man working through damage when he accepts his mission. He quickly discovers that fate has more harsh lessons to teach him and that the work of a protector never ends.
What do you think about Netflix adapting Man on Fire for the small screen? Who will they cast as John Creasy or Lupita Ramos, initially played by a young Dakota Fanning? Feel free to share your opinions and cast ideas in the comments.