From 'Nobody' to 'Gears of War': David Leitch & Kelly McCormick on Action Evolution & Their Next Big Moves
David Leitch and Kelly McCormick, the powerhouse duo behind 87North and the action-packed success of 'Nobody,' are expanding their empire with ambitious projects like the upcoming 'Gears of War' film and the stunt-filled 'The Fall Guy.' In an exclusive interview, the married couple details their journey from 'Jurassic World' to shaping the future of action cinema, including a surprising director change just eight weeks before production on the Bob Odenkirk sequel.
Navigating a Late-Stage Shift: The 'Nobody 2' Challenge
The road to 'Nobody 2' wasn't without its bumps. Leitch and McCormick candidly discuss the unexpected challenge of needing to find a new director a mere eight weeks before filming commenced. This scenario, while stressful, ultimately led to a fresh perspective and a renewed creative energy for the sequel. "It was a moment of panic, absolutely," McCormick admits, "but it forced us to be incredibly resourceful and open to new ideas." They emphasize the importance of having a strong foundation in place – a compelling script and a dedicated team – to weather such a storm.
'The Fall Guy': Honoring Stunt Work and Elevating Action
Their recent film, 'The Fall Guy,' starring Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt, serves as a testament to their commitment to celebrating the unsung heroes of Hollywood: stunt performers. The film is a love letter to the stunt community, showcasing breathtaking practical stunts and a thrilling narrative. Leitch explains, “'The Fall Guy' allowed us to really lean into the practical side of action, which is something we’re passionate about. It's a chance to honor the incredible work of stunt professionals and bring that authenticity to the screen.” The success of 'The Fall Guy' further solidified their reputation for delivering high-octane entertainment with a genuine heart.
'Gears of War': A New Chapter for a Beloved Franchise
Looking ahead, Leitch and McCormick are tackling the monumental task of bringing the iconic 'Gears of War' franchise to the big screen. The project, steeped in a rich lore and dedicated fanbase, represents a significant step in their career trajectory. “'Gears of War' is a franchise with a massive, passionate following, and we're incredibly excited to bring that world to life in a cinematic way,” says Leitch. They're committed to honoring the source material while crafting a compelling and accessible story for a wider audience. The film promises to deliver the signature grit and intensity of the games, alongside a fresh perspective and captivating visuals.
Moving Beyond 'Jurassic World': Defining 87North's Brand
Having contributed to the 'Jurassic World' franchise, Leitch and McCormick have carved out a distinct niche for themselves, focusing on action films with a unique blend of spectacle and heart. They’ve established 87North as a go-to production company for delivering high-quality, adrenaline-fueled experiences. “We want to be known for pushing the boundaries of action filmmaking,” McCormick states. “For creating films that are both thrilling and emotionally resonant.”
As they embark on these new adventures, David Leitch and Kelly McCormick continue to redefine the landscape of action cinema, proving that with creativity, dedication, and a healthy dose of risk-taking, anything is possible.