Paramount declines Max Landis’ pitch for new G.I. Joe film

Paramount Pictures and Hasbro have decided not to proceed with a proposed new take on the G.I. Joe franchise from screenwriter Max Landis.

Landis had been hired earlier this year to develop a script treatment based on the iconic action figure property. However, sources say the studio recently chose not to move forward with his concept for creative reasons. Paramount is still developing the project and is reviewing other pitches as part of a broader effort to revive key intellectual properties under its new film leadership.

The studio is reportedly continuing discussions with other writers, including actor and creator Danny McBride, known for his work on the TV series The Righteous Gemstones.

Speaking about the development, Landis told Variety he was thankful for the opportunity to present his idea. “I’m tremendously grateful to have been given the opportunity,” he said, explaining that the concept had come together “very serendipitously based on the coolness of the weird and subversive idea.”

The writer described his pitch as an unconventional spin on the franchise’s mythology. According to Landis, the story imagined the villainous organisation Cobra successfully conquering the world, leaving the G.I. Joe team dismissed it as nothing more than a conspiracy theory. “But this is just how big IP development always is,” he added. “Honestly, I was surprised it was reported at all.”

Landis’ involvement with the project had drawn attention due to controversies surrounding his career. In 2016, eight women accused the writer of sexual assault and other misconduct, allegations that led to him being dropped by his agency, Creative Artists Agency, and to the cancellation of several projects in development at the time.

Paramount has been attempting to reinvigorate several of its major franchises, including Star Trek, as part of a broader strategy under new leadership.