Image credits: Sega
While we’ve already covered the exciting news about A All-new Sonic animated series Heading to the streamer, the partnership will also bring two major live-action feature films to Netflix: a highly anticipated comedy from Crazy Taxi and a gritty crime drama inspired by Stranger Than Heaven.
Here’s everything you need to know about the two live-action feature films coming out of the historic Netflix and SEGA deal.
Crazy Taxi (live action comedy)
Since its debut in 1999, Crazy Taxi has become a staple in gaming history. Now, the brave, clock-racing, cliff-jumping taxi drivers are heading to Netflix in a live-action comedy.
To express the game’s chaotic, comedic spirit, Netflix turned to writers Dan Gregor and Dog mandthe beloved writing duo behind the 2025 reboot of The Naked Gun.
Images via Netflix
Film production is Neil H. Moritz and Toby Asher for the original film, along with SEGA Tooru Nakahara– The same visionary production team responsible for turning the live-action Sonic the Hedgehog cinematic universe into a massive global franchise.
For 90s and 2000s gamers, this adaptation promises to be a nostalgia trip. As producers Neal H. Moritz and Toby Asher quipped:
“We couldn’t be more excited to continue our longstanding relationship with SEGA and bring Crazy Taxi to life with our partners at Netflix. This film is for anyone who has spent hours behind the wheel of a yellow taxi on Dreamcast, with the music playing, smashing everything in sight just to make their next fare.”
Toru Nakahara added that fans should expect something “hilariously crazy” from the upcoming film.
The adaptation aligns perfectly with SEGA’s revitalization of the franchise; brand new game, Crazy Taxi: World Tour, is currently scheduled for release in 2027.
Stranger Than Heaven (Live Crime Movie)
On the exact opposite end of the genre spectrum is Stranger Than Heaven. Details are currently being kept under wraps, but SEGA and Netflix have confirmed that a live-action film adaptation is in the works with Tooru Nakahara Attached to production.
The IP comes directly from RGG Studio, the legendary developers behind the hugely successful Like a Dragon/Yakuza series (which has sold over 30 million copies).
Set in early 20th-century Japan, Stranger Than Heaven follows the poignant journey of a foreigner who works his way up the societal ladder – going from destitute outsider to fearsome yakuza member and, ultimately, entertainment mogul. Set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing nation, the story explores how he builds his empire while balancing honor and betrayal.
Nakahara has already promoted the project, promising fans a “bad action drama.” Given RGG Studio’s history of stunning cinematic narratives, crime, and high-stakes drama, this game should definitely remain on your radar.
Brandon Rigg, Vice President of Nonfiction and Transmedia at Netflix, said: “Great games truly have what every adaptation haunts – the characters people love, the worlds they know by heart, and the fans that emerge. With Crazy Taxi, Sonic and Stranger Than HEAVEN, we can work across three very different eras of SEGA’s catalog, celebrating everything fans love, while introducing them to new audiences.”
Shuji Utsumi, president and chief operating officer of SEGA, echoed this sentiment, praising Netflix’s “true skill” and dedication to storytelling.
“We’ve seen Netflix take on stories of every genre and treat each one with true craftsmanship, and seeing the same dedication applied to Sonic, Crazy Taxi, and Stranger Than HEAVEN is something we at SEGA are extremely proud to be a part of,” Utsumi said, adding: “Fans of these games deserve to tell stories that honor what makes each title special, and we know Netflix shares that commitment. This is just the beginning of what these titles can become.”
Netflix is huge List of video game adaptations Includes animated iterations of Minecraft and Clash of clans In addition to live action titles such as Gears of war and Assassin’s Creed.
What live-action SEGA adaptation are you most excited about? Will you enjoy the wild ride of Crazy Taxi or the gritty drama of Stranger Than HEAVEN? Let us know in the comments below!