Lionsgate Play is gearing up to accelerate its content offerings with the highly anticipated Philippine premiere of Twisted Metal, a thrilling adaptation from Sony Pictures Television, set to debut on Friday, August 23. This strategic release underscores Lionsgate Play’s commitment to delivering top-notch entertainment that resonates with diverse audiences, from gaming enthusiasts to action-comedy fans.
Action-Packed Nostalgia: A Tribute to a Gaming Classic
Twisted Metal is more than just a show; it’s a cultural phenomenon reborn. Drawing from the iconic PlayStation franchise that dominated the ’90s, the series merges gritty storytelling, intense vehicular combat, and a cast of vibrant characters that have mesmerized gamers for over two decades. With the original games achieving over a million sales each and the first title earning the coveted “Best Game of the Year” award in 1995 by Electronic Gaming Monthly, Lionsgate Play is poised to capitalize on the franchise’s deep-rooted fanbase.
“We believe that Twisted Metal not only pays homage to its gaming roots but also reinvents the narrative for modern audiences,” says Rohit Jain, President at Lionsgate Play, Asia. “This series resonates on multiple levels, appealing to both nostalgic fans and newcomers alike, making it a series we know our subscribers will enjoy, we’re looking forward to partnership with Sony Pictures Television on this.”
Developed by Sony Pictures Television and PlayStation Productions, Twisted Metal originally premiered on Peacock in July 2023, quickly becoming the platform’s most-binged original in its first week and one of its top three originals of all time. The series has already been renewed for a second season, affirming its strong reception and fan enthusiasm.
Star Power Meets Chaos: An Unforgettable Cast
At the heart of Twisted Metal lies the story of John Doe, a delivery driver navigating a perilous, post-apocalyptic world, risking everything in search of a better life. Helmed by Michael Jonathan Smith (Cobra Kai), who serves as showrunner, writer, and executive producer, the live-action comedy captures the essence of the beloved game while delivering fresh, exhilarating entertainment.
The series boasts a stellar cast led by Anthony Mackie (The Falcon and The Winter Soldier) as John Doe, a wisecracking milkman with a need for speed. He is joined by Stephanie Beatriz (Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Encanto) as Quiet, Joe Seanoa (AEW) as Sweet Tooth—whose menacing persona is voiced by Will Arnett (Arrested Development, The Lego Movie)—and Thomas Haden Church (Sideways, Spider-Man: No Way Home). Guest stars include Neve Campbell (Scream), Richard Cabral (Mayans M.C.), and Lou Beatty Jr. (Finding Normal).
Behind the scenes, the series is fueled by the creative vision of Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick (Deadpool, Zombieland), who serve as executive producers. The lineup of executive producers also includes industry heavyweights like Anthony Mackie, Will Arnett, Marc Forman (Electric Avenue), Jason Spire (Inspire Entertainment), and Hermen Hulst, Head of PlayStation Studios. Season one was directed by Kitao Sakurai, adding a unique touch to this already explosive series.
Distributed globally by Sony Pictures Television, Twisted Metal is a collaborative effort between SPT, PlayStation Productions, and Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group. Lionsgate Play’s acquisition of this adrenaline-fueled series marks a bold step in enhancing its content library, offering subscribers a viewing experience that’s as exhilarating as it is nostalgic.
