Max Landis Set to Write New G.I. Joe Movie for Paramount
Paramount Pictures has hired screenwriter Max Landis to develop a new script for the G.I. Joe film franchise. This project marks Landis’s return to a major studio production following a multi-year hiatus from the industry. The studio is currently developing two distinct paths for the property to revitalize the brand.
TL;DR
- Max Landis is writing a new G.I. Joe script for Paramount Pictures.
- The project is a standalone reboot separate from a second G.I. Joe project by Danny McBride.
- This is Landis’s first major studio attachment since 2017 allegations.
- Paramount is exploring multiple creative directions for the Hasbro-owned IP.
What Happened
On February 27, 2026, reports confirmed that Paramount Pictures is officially back in business with screenwriter Max Landis. Landis has been tasked with writing a treatment and script for a fresh installment of the G.I. Joe cinematic universe. This move comes as Paramount seeks to reboot the franchise after previous iterations failed to sustain long-term box office momentum.Key Developments
Paramount is simultaneously developing two different G.I. Joe movies. While Max Landis is handling one script, a separate project is being developed by Danny McBride and his Rough House Pictures team. Landis had been largely absent from Hollywood since 2017 and 2019, when multiple allegations of sexual misconduct and emotional abuse led to the cancellation of several of his projects and his departure from his agency. This new G.I. Joe assignment represents his first high-profile return to a major Hollywood studio.Why This Matters
This development is factually significant as it signals a shift in studio hiring practices regarding talent previously sidelined during the MeToo movement. It also indicates Paramount's aggressive strategy to leverage its partnership with Hasbro by exploring multiple creative avenues for the same intellectual property simultaneously, rather than following a single linear narrative path.What Happens Next
Both the Landis and McBride scripts are currently in the early development phase. Paramount will evaluate both drafts before deciding on production timelines, casting, and whether both projects will eventually move toward theatrical release or streaming. No release dates have been set for either film at this time.FAQ
Who is writing the new G.I. Joe movie?
Paramount has hired Max Landis and Danny McBride to develop two separate G.I. Joe movie scripts. They are working on different creative versions of the franchise.
Is Max Landis returning to Hollywood?
Yes, this G.I. Joe project with Paramount is his first major studio writing credit in several years. He had previously been inactive following significant personal and professional allegations.
Are there two G.I. Joe movies coming out?
There are two scripts in development, but it is not yet confirmed if both will be produced as full feature films. Studios often develop multiple scripts for the same brand to choose the best direction.
What was Max Landis's last major movie?
Before his hiatus, Landis was known for writing "Chronicle," "American Ultra," and the Netflix original film "Bright."
Is this G.I. Joe movie a sequel to Snake Eyes?
No, the current reports indicate these new projects are reboots intended to take the franchise in a new direction, separate from the 2021 film "Snake Eyes."
