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Photograph: (Image Courtesy: 2000 AD)
Filmmaker Duncan Jones, known for visually bold and emotionally intelligent sci-fi titles like ‘Moon’, ‘Source Code’, and ‘Mute’, is returning to the genre with ‘Rogue Trooper’ — a long-awaited animated adaptation of the classic 2000 AD comic. Powered by Unreal Engine 5, the film marks a visually groundbreaking entry in Jones’ career and is shaping up to be his most ambitious project yet.
Aneurin Barnard, best known for his roles in ‘Doctor Who’ and ‘Dunkirk’, leads the voice cast as the titular Rogue, a genetically engineered super soldier created to survive Nu Earth’s toxic atmosphere. In the film, Rogue finds himself the lone survivor of a botched invasion, betrayed by a traitor in his ranks. What sets this story apart is Rogue’s unique companions: a sentient gun, backpack, and helmet, each infused with the personalities of his fallen comrades.
Set against a backdrop of war between the authoritarian Norts and democratic Southers, Rogue Trooper dives deep into themes of loyalty, vengeance, and survival. The visual style brings to life Nu Earth’s desolate wastelands and futuristic machinery — including a hulking war tank and eerie battlefield landscapes.
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New stills from the film reveal a mix of gritty, war-torn landscapes and darkly comic characters. Viewers were also treated to an early look at the villains, voiced by Jemaine Clement and Matt Berry, who portray a pair of looters named Mr Brass and Mr Bland — characters who add a twisted sense of humour to the bleak setting. The film utilises advanced facial performance capture technology to enhance these animated performances.
Jones expressed excitement about the project, viewing it as a culmination of his creative journey so far. He and the production team, including Rebellion and Liberty Films, aimed to bring the comic’s surreal and cinematic world to life in a way that honours its roots while pushing the boundaries of animation.
Star-Studded Cast and Bold Vision Power ‘Rogue Trooper’
In addition to Barnard, the voice cast includes Hayley Atwell, Jack Lowden, Daryl McCormack, Reece Shearsmith, Diane Morgan, Alice Lowe, Asa Butterfield, and Sean Bean — a stellar ensemble that adds further depth to this dark, futuristic world.
With high-tech animation, a cult-favourite source material, and Jones' vision steering the ship, Rogue Trooper is poised to be one of the most original and visually striking sci-fi films in recent years. The release is expected in cinemas soon.
