Lionsgate Play leverages star power and nostalgia with the premiere of “Twisted Metal”

Photo from Sony Pictures Television

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Lionsgate Play is set to rev up its content slate with the highly anticipated Philippine premiere of Twisted Metal from Sony Pictures Television on Friday, August 23. This move marks a strategic alignment with the platform’s vision to offer top-tier entertainment that captivates diverse audiences, ranging from gamers to action fans.

Action, comedy, and nostalgia all in one title

Based on the iconic PlayStation franchise from the ’90s, Twisted Metal features a unique blend of gritty storytelling, battle vehicles, and colorful characters that have captivated gamers for over 25 years. The original Twisted Metal games were a phenomenon, with each of the first four titles selling over a million copies. Named Best Game of the Year in 1995 by Electronic Gaming Monthly, the franchise has built a devoted fan base that Lionsgate Play aims to tap into.

“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.”

Twisted Metal was developed by Sony Pictures Television and PlayStation Productions. It premiered on Peacock in July 2023 and immediately became the most-binged original in its first week. It was also one of Peacock’s top three originals of all time. The series has been greenlit for a second season.

“With Twisted Metal, we’ve aimed to create a series that not only entertains but also brings to life the thrilling chaos and rich storytelling of the beloved game franchise,” says Eugene Lin, VP, Distribution, Southeast Asia, Sony Pictures Television. “We are excited to partner with Lionsgate Play to deliver this unique experience to audiences in the Philippines.”

A star-studded extravaganza

The series revolves around the story of John Doe, a delivery driver who risks his life to deliver mysterious packages, hoping for a better life in a chaotic, post-apocalyptic world. Michael Jonathan Smith (Cobra Kai) serves as showrunner, writer, and executive producer for the live-action comedy from Sony Pictures Television, PlayStation Productions and Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group.

“Twisted Metal” stars Anthony Mackie (The Falcon and The Winter Soldier) as John Doe, a smart-ass milkman who talks as fast as he drives;Stephanie Beatriz (Brooklyn Nine Nine and Encanto) stars as Quiet; Joe Seanoa (AEW) as Sweet Tooth, voiced by Will Arnett (Arrested Development, Murderville,and The Lego Movie) and Thomas Haden Church (Sideways, Divorce, and Spider-Man: No Way Home). Series guest stars includeNeve Campbell (Scream), Richard Cabral (Mayans M.C.), Mike Mitchell (Love and The Tomorrow War), Tahj Vaughans (The Purge), and Lou Beatty Jr. (Finding Normal).

Anthony Mackie (Make It With Gravy Productions) is Executive Producer and series lead. The series is based on an original take by Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick (Deadpool and Zombieland), who serve as executive producers. Will Arnett, and Marc Forman (Electric Avenue), Jason Spire (Inspire Entertainment), Peter Principato (Artists First), Asad Qizilbash and Carter Swan from PlayStation Productions and Hermen Hulst, Head of PlayStation Studios, also serve as executive producers on the series. Kitao Sakurai served as the director for season one (multiple episodes). “Twisted Metal” is produced by SPT, PlayStation Productions, and Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group, and is distributed globally by SPT.