Paramount Pictures is moving ahead with a live action Call of Duty film, but the project could have looked very different had Steven Spielberg been at the helm. According to Puck News, the acclaimed filmmaker pitched his own vision for the movie to Activision, only for the studio to decline due to his request for full creative control.
Spielberg, who is reported to be a devoted gamer and a fan of Call of Duty in particular, worked with his Amblin team and Universal dealmaker Jimmy Horowitz to outline his approach to adapting the blockbuster franchise. The proposal included what is often referred to as the “Spielberg Deal,” which guarantees top tier financial backing, final cut approval, and oversight across production and marketing. While this might sound appealing for most projects, Activision executives—now under Microsoft ownership—were uneasy with relinquishing that level of authority.
Instead, the publisher sold the rights to Paramount, which aligned with producer David Ellison’s pitch. This arrangement allows Activision greater influence over the process, from creative decisions to long term franchise planning. As a result, Paramount will now lead the charge in bringing one of gaming’s most commercially successful series to theaters, though no director or cast members have yet been confirmed.
The idea of a Call of Duty movie has lingered for years, with previous attempts never making it past development. The series itself has been a juggernaut since its debut in 2003, spanning multiple eras of warfare across titles like Modern Warfare and Black Ops. With over 500 million copies sold and more than $30 billion in lifetime revenue, Call of Duty ranks among the most lucrative entertainment properties of all time.
Spielberg’s involvement would have carried considerable prestige, given his history with war themed films such as Saving Private Ryan. However, without his participation, it remains to be seen how Paramount and Activision will shape their version of the project. For now, what is certain is that Call of Duty will soon march beyond consoles and PCs into the world of cinema.
