Taika Waititi Takes On Judge Dredd: Thor Director’s Bold New Vision

Blimey! Just when you thought British comic book adaptations couldn’t get more exciting, Thor: Ragnarok director Taika Waititi has only gone and signed on to direct a new Judge Dredd film. As someone who spent their teenage years devouring 2000 AD comics under the covers with a torch, this news has proper got me buzzing!

From Asgard to Mega-City One: Why Waititi’s Perfect for Dredd

Let’s be honest – Judge Dredd’s previous big-screen outings have been a bit hit-and-miss, haven’t they? Sure, Karl Urban’s 2012 take was solid gold, but we’re still trying to forget Stallone’s “I am the law!” moment from 1995. But Waititi’s appointment feels different, and here’s why.

The Oscar-winning director has proven he can balance comedy and action with Thor: Ragnarok, while Jojo Rabbit showed he’s not afraid to tackle darker themes. And isn’t that exactly what Judge Dredd needs? The comic’s signature blend of satirical humor and gritty violence is right up Waititi’s street.

Drew Pearce Joins the Justice Department

Adding to the excitement, Iron Man 3 writer Drew Pearce is penning the script. Having previously worked on action-comedy gems like Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation, Pearce knows how to craft a proper blockbuster that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

What This Means for British Comics on Screen

This isn’t just another Hollywood adaptation – it’s a chance to properly showcase one of Britain’s most iconic comic characters. With streaming giants throwing money at comic book properties left and right in 2025, could this kickstart a new wave of British comic adaptations? We’re looking at you, ABC Warriors!

FAQ: Your Judge Dredd Questions Answered

When will Taika Waititi’s Judge Dredd release?

While no official release date has been announced, production is expected to begin in early 2026, suggesting a late 2027 release.

Will this be connected to the 2012 Dredd film?

No, this will be a fresh take on the character, though many fans are campaigning for Karl Urban to return to the role.

What’s different about this version?

Sources suggest Waititi plans to embrace more of the comic’s satirical elements while maintaining its dystopian edge – think Thor: Ragnarok meets Black Mirror.

The Verdict

As we wait for more details to drop, one thing’s crystal clear: Waititi’s Judge Dredd won’t be your average comic book film. With his track record of breathing new life into established properties and Pearce’s sharp writing, we might finally get the definitive Judge Dredd we’ve been waiting for.

Share your thoughts below on who should don the iconic helmet, and stay tuned for more updates as this mega project develops. The law is coming – and this time, it’s bringing Waititi’s signature style with it!

[Internal links to: “Top Comic Book Movies 2025”, “British Comics Going Hollywood”, “Taika Waititi Filmography”]
[External links to: Hollywood Reporter article, 2000 AD official website, IMDb]