Isabela Merced to Star in Paul W.S. Anderson’s ‘The House of the Dead’ Adaptation

Isabela Merced (“The Last of Us,” Alien: Romulus) is set to star in the film adaptation of the hit Sega video game series The House of the Dead, Deadline reports.

Paul W.S. Anderson (Resident Evil, Event Horizon) is writing and directing the zombie movie, with the hope of launching a franchise.

First released in 1997, the House of the Dead arcade game follows government agents investigating disappearances at an abandoned mansion, only to be confronted with a horde of genetically engineered zombies.

The film is described “a top Sega priority” after the success of Sonic the Hedgehog, with the idea to make it as immersive as possible and with a story that plays out in real-time but with a “fresh take” on the franchise.

Anderson will produce alongside his Resident Evil partner Jeremy Bolt, Sega’s Toru Nakahara (Sonic the Hedgehog), and Story Kitchen’s Dmitri M. Johnson (“Tomb Raider”), Michael Lawrence Goldberg and Timothy I. Stevenson. Merced will executive produce.

“The House of the Dead is a game I have loved for many years, and I’m beyond thrilled to be bringing this to the big screen with such an exciting talent as Isabela at its heart,” said Anderson. “We envisage this as the start of a tentpole franchise which can explore the rich world and lore that Sega has created over a whole series of films.”

“Working with Isabela is a thrilling opportunity as she embodies the heroine character perfectly, bringing dynamic energy to the production,” added Nakahara. “We’re dedicated to crafting a visually striking and immersive experience by introducing compelling actors and terrifying creatures that will bring the House of the Dead universe to life on the big screen. With our deep understanding of video game adaptations, we’re eager to deliver an electrifying cinematic journey for the franchise’s fans.”

Rocket Science will launch international sales at next week’s European Film Market in Berlin. CAA Media Finance is repping domestic.

House of the Dead was previously adapted into the 2003 film by Uwe Boll.