R‑Rated Zombie Brawler Lollipop Chainsaw Goes Live‑Action

At this year’s Tokyo Game Show, the creators of the cult zombie‑hunting game *Lollipop Chainsaw* announced a live‑action feature film. The announcement comes as the franchise prepares a new video‑game launch and an animated series.

Fans can expect a fresh take that ties into the game’s growing legacy.

The film is pitched as an R‑rated action comedy set before the original game’s events. It follows Juliet Starling, a San Romero High School cheerleader from a family of zombie hunters, as she battles a campus‑wide outbreak to save her friends and keep her boyfriend Nick close.

The storyline promises unconventional twists and high‑energy battles that echo the game’s signature style.

Alongside the movie news, Dragami Games revealed a remastered edition of the game, *Lollipop Chainsaw RePOP*, will launch soon. An animated series will also debut, expanding the universe across multiple media. Both projects aim to broaden the franchise’s appeal beyond its existing fan base.

## Background & Context

*Lollipop Chainsaw* debuted in 2012 and has since sold over 1.5 million copies worldwide, earning a devoted cult following. The game’s quirky mix of slasher action and comedic gags resonated with players seeking a fresh horror experience.

Two years ago, the title was re‑released as *Lollipop Chainsaw RePOP*, which refreshed graphics and added new features.

The franchise’s popularity has spurred interest in expanding its storytelling beyond the console. A long‑running fan base has maintained an active community that celebrates the game’s over‑the‑top humor and undead battles.

The new media ventures—film, animated series, and a remastered game—represent a coordinated effort to elevate *Lollipop Chainsaw* into a globally recognized entertainment brand.

## Production Details

Dragami Games licensed the film rights to an international creative team.

The project is overseen by Nada Holdings president Joe Teng (As One) and former ZDF Studios drama boss Robert Franke, with indie studio Orange Chariot’s Takafumi Yuki, Ambitious Entertainment’s Kirk Shaw, and Non Stop TV’s Patricio Rabuffetti serving as co‑producers.

The collaboration aims to blend diverse production expertise with the game’s unique tone.

President Shohei Sato said: “We are truly excited to see our vision take another important step with the franchise’s first live‑action feature film.

We are especially pleased to be working with such an experienced and passionate international team— one that understands what makes *Lollipop Chainsaw* special while embracing the opportunity to create something new.” Franke added: “We are making a film that feels unmistakably true to the spirit of *Lollipop Chainsaw* while standing completely on its own.

Longtime fans will recognize the attitude, irreverence, and glorious excess they love, while newcomers can simply enjoy an unforgettable action‑horror comedy. Our ambition is to create a film that entertains audiences everywhere, whether they’ve played the game or not.”

## What Happens Next

The live‑action adaptation will premiere alongside a new video‑game release and an animated series. While specific release dates have not been announced, the announcement at Tokyo Game Show signals that production is underway.

The film’s international cast of producers suggests a broad distribution strategy aimed at both core fans and new viewers.

Fans are encouraged to keep an eye on official channels for further details, as the franchise’s developers continue to expand the *Lollipop Chainsaw* universe across multiple formats.

The *Lollipop Chainsaw* live‑action film marks a significant step in turning a beloved indie title into a cross‑media franchise, blending horror, comedy, and action for a global audience.