Renowned filmmaker Steven Spielberg once expressed strong interest in directing a film based on the hit video game franchise Call of Duty, but his pitch was turned down by publisher Activision.
According to reports, Spielberg, known for blockbusters such as Jurassic Park, Jaws, and Indiana Jones, is also a keen gamer and a fan of the Call of Duty series. He presented a vision for a film adaptation that would have given him full creative control, including the final cut.
However, Activision reportedly became uneasy with the idea of handing over complete control, despite Spielberg’s status as one of Hollywood’s most successful directors. Instead, the company sold the film rights to Paramount, where they could maintain greater oversight of the project.
While the franchise remains one of the most commercially successful in gaming history, no major Call of Duty film has yet made it to the big screen. Spielberg’s involvement could have marked a significant step in bringing the series from consoles to cinemas.