Emmy-winning actor Yahya Abdul-Mateen II is set to take on a powerful new role in Netflix’s upcoming series “Man on Fire.”
The streamer ordered the project in March, and it’s already generating significant buzz.
A New Adaptation Of A Classic Series
“Man on Fire” is an eight-episode drama based on A.J. Quinnell’s novels “Man on Fire” and “The Perfect Kill,” the first two books in his five-book series.
This isn’t the first time Quinnell’s work has been adapted; the 2004 film starring Denzel Washington and a 1987 Italian film of the same name previously brought these gripping stories to the screen.
In this latest incarnation, Abdul-Mateen II will portray John Creasy, a former Special Forces mercenary known for his ability to survive the harshest conditions.
Now, Creasy is battling intense PTSD and personal demons.
Determined to overcome his struggles, he embarks on a path to redemption but finds himself drawn back into a dangerous world.
“John Creasy is a deeply flawed yet resilient character,” Abdul-Mateen II said. “I’m honored to bring his story to life in a way that resonates with today’s audience.”
A Stellar Creative Team
Steven Caple Jr., known for his work on Transformers: Rise of the Beasts and Creed II, will direct the first two episodes and serve as an executive producer.
Caple Jr. brings a dynamic vision to the project, ensuring that the series will be both visually stunning and emotionally impactful.
“This project is a thrilling opportunity to explore complex themes of redemption and resilience,” Steven shared. “Working with Yahya and this talented team is truly exciting.”
Kyle Killen, acclaimed for his work on Fear Street, is the writer, executive producer, and showrunner.
Killen’s narrative expertise ensures that the adaptation will remain faithful to Quinnell’s intense and captivating storytelling.
An Impressive Lineup of Executive Producers
The series boasts an impressive list of executive producers:
- Arnon Milchan, Yariv Milchan, and Natalie Lehmann for New Regency Productions, which controls the rights to the IP and financed the 2004 film.
- Peter Chernin, Jenno Topping, and Tracey Cook for Chernin Entertainment.
- Kyle Killen and Scott Pennington for Chapter Eleven.
- Steven Caple Jr., Ed McDonnell, Michael Polaire, and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II.
- Stacy Perskie for RedRum.
With such a powerhouse team, “Man on Fire” is set to be a compelling and must-watch series.
Abdul-Mateen II’s Recent & Upcoming Projects
Yahya Abdul-Mateen II recently reprised his role as Black Manta in the 2023 DC film Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom alongside Jason Momoa.
Next, he will be seen as the titular superhero in Marvel’s “Wonder Man,” a 10-episode series for Disney+.
His impressive film credits also include Ambulance (2022), The Matrix Resurrections (2021), Candyman (2021), and Aquaman (2018).
On the television front, Abdul-Mateen II earned critical acclaim for his portrayal of Cal Abar/Dr. Manhattan in HBO’s “Watchmen,” a role that garnered him his first Emmy win.
He was also a series regular in Netflix’s “The Get Down,” created by Baz Luhrmann and Stephen Adly Guirgis.
With Yahya Abdul-Mateen II’s compelling performance and the strong creative vision of Steven Caple Jr. and Kyle Killen, “Man on Fire” is poised to be a standout series on Netflix.
Fans of the original novels and new viewers alike can look forward to a thrilling and deeply moving adaptation.
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Source: Deadline
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