Nicolas Winding Refn is making a bold return to the world of cult classics with his upcoming project, Maniac Cop. The Danish director, known for his work on Drive and The Neon Demon, has announced that he will be directing a new version of the 1988 slasher film. This project is being supported by Mubi, which has not only provided financing but also committed to a wide theatrical release. Production is set to begin in Los Angeles in January, though casting details have yet to be revealed.
Refn will produce the film under his NWR Originals banner, alongside Executive Producers Christina Erritzøe and Kimberly Willming. Vincent Maraval, who previously worked on Goodfellas, will also serve as an executive producer. According to Efe Cakarel, Founder and CEO of Mubi, this is not just a remake but a “resurrection” of the iconic film. He praised Refn’s unique vision, calling him one of the most dangerous imaginations in modern cinema.
The journey to bring Maniac Cop back to the big screen has been anything but straightforward. Originally announced at Cannes 2016 as a feature film directed by John Hyams, the project later evolved into an HBO and Canal+ television series by 2019. However, Refn has now taken control of the project, reimagining it as a theatrical feature. Mubi has secured distribution rights across several regions, including North America, Latin America, the UK, Ireland, France, Italy, Spain, Benelux, Turkey, Australia, and New Zealand.
While the focus is on Maniac Cop, Refn’s recent work has also garnered significant attention. His latest film, Her Private H**, marks his return to Cannes after a decade-long hiatus. The sci-fi thriller premiered at the festival to a 12-minute standing ovation. It stars Sophie Thatcher, Charles Melton, Havana Rose Liu, Kristine Froseth, and Diego Calva. Set in a futuristic city, the film follows a predatory character known as the Leather Man who hunts women during a glamorous film shoot. Neon will release the film theatrically in North America on July 24.
At Cannes, Refn spoke openly about a near-death experience three years ago, when he underwent heart surgery and was clinically dead for approximately 20 minutes. This event had a profound impact on his creative process, influencing both Her Private H and the announcement of Maniac Cop. As Refn returns to the spotlight, it seems that the uniform is coming back—and this time, he is the one holding the badge.
