Netflix and Sega announced a new partnership on September 15, 2026, to collaborate on adapting Sega’s game catalog into film and television. The first project is a live-action comedy film based on Crazy Taxi, with additional adaptations including Sonic the Hedgehog and Stranger Than Heaven in development.
The partnership will span a wide variety of genres, including live-action comedy, kids’ animation, and live-action crime action. Netflix’s experience in bringing beloved game worlds to new audiences and Sega’s extensive library will be combined in these projects.
Live-Action ‘Crazy Taxi’ Movie
Leading the partnership is Crazy Taxi, set to be produced as a live-action comedy film. The original arcade game launched in 1999, placing players in the role of an unconventional taxi driver who races through the city to deliver passengers within a time limit. A brand-new entry in the series, Crazy Taxi: World Tour, is scheduled for 2027.
The film will be written by Dan Gregor and Doug Mand, the popular screenwriting duo known for the 2025 Naked Gun reboot. Production duties go to Neal H. Moritz and Toby Ascher, who previously worked on the Sonic the Hedgehog movies, alongside Tetsu Nakahara.
Sonic the Hedgehog Kids Animation Series
Also announced is a kids’ animation series based on Sonic the Hedgehog. Currently in development by Carlos Stevens and Tetsu Nakahara, the new series targets preschool and early elementary-aged children, showing Sonic and his friends in heroic adventures. It promises a thrilling, comedic, and emotionally resonant experience for young viewers who want a bit of excitement and individuality, and dream of saying “these are my friends.”
‘Stranger Than Heaven’ Live-Action Film
From RGG Studio, the team behind the Yakuza series, comes Stranger Than Heaven. This project will be made into a live-action film. Set in the first half of 20th-century Japan, it follows a man from a foreign land who rises from a penniless outsider to a feared yakuza and a major player in the entertainment world. The story explores themes of honor and betrayal as he builds his own kingdom against a turbulent historical backdrop. Details are still under wraps, but the film is expected to bring this expansive world to life from a new perspective.
Official Comments
Shuji Utsumi, Representative Director, President & COO of Sega Corporation: “We have long held deep respect for Netflix’s approach to working on projects in various formats, carefully crafting each one with high creativity and sincerity. We are very pleased that the same passion is being applied to Sonic the Hedgehog, Crazy Taxi, and Stranger Than Heaven, and we are proud to be involved in these projects as Sega. We want to deliver adaptations that honor the charm and individuality of each title for fans who love these games, and we are confident Netflix shares that vision. We look forward to expanding the possibilities of these titles through this project.”
Tetsu Nakahara, Sega’s film/TV series lead producer: “For Sonic the Hedgehog, we want to deliver the adventures of Sonic and friends, full of cute yet cool charm. For Crazy Taxi, we’re looking at a wild, high-octane action comedy filled with witty jokes. And for Stranger Than Heaven, we’ll bring sharp action and heartwarming drama. We’re excited to work with the production team including Netflix. Please look forward to these, just as you would the games.”
Brandon League, Vice President of Nonfiction and Transmedia at Netflix: “Great games already have the elements needed for adaptation: beloved characters, deeply treasured worlds, and passionate fandoms. With Crazy Taxi, Sonic the Hedgehog, and Stranger Than Heaven, we’re tackling three titles from different eras in Sega’s catalog, preserving the qualities fans love while introducing them to new audiences.”
Neal H. Moritz and Toby Ascher, Original Film: “We couldn’t be more thrilled to further our long-standing partnership with Sega and bring Crazy Taxi to the screen with Netflix. This film is for every fan who spent hours driving that yellow taxi on Dreamcast, blasting music, and plowing through anything in the way to pick up the next fare.”
Project Overview
| Title | Format | Key Staff |
|---|---|---|
| Crazy Taxi | Live-action comedy film | Writers: Dan Gregor, Doug Mand; Producers: Neal H. Moritz, Toby Ascher, Tetsu Nakahara |
| Sonic the Hedgehog | Kids animation series | Developed by Carlos Stevens, Tetsu Nakahara |
| Stranger Than Heaven | Live-action film | Producer: Tetsu Nakahara |
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