In an exciting development for fans of science fiction and horror, “Primitive War” is set to bring an unprecedented cinematic experience, blending the ferocity of dinosaurs with the grim backdrop of the Vietnam War. Helmed by director Luke Sparke, this adaptation of Ethan Pettus’ acclaimed military science fiction book series promises a thrilling journey back to 1968, where the unimaginable becomes reality.
The ensemble cast is led by Primetime Emmy Award and Golden Globe winner Jeremy Piven, known for his roles in “Entourage” and “Old School”, and Tricia Helfer, who won acclaim in “Battlestar Galactica” and “Lucifer”. They are joined by SAG Award nominee Ryan Kwanten from “True Blood” and “Glorious”, and Nick Wechsler, recognizable from “The Boys” and “Revenge”. Principal photography is on the horizon, set to take place on Australia’s picturesque Gold Coast, engaging over 200 local crew members in the production.
“Primitive War” centers around the harrowing mission of Vulture Squad, an elite recon unit deployed to a secluded jungle valley during the peak of the Vietnam War. Tasked with uncovering the fate of a vanished Green Beret platoon, they stumble upon a secret far more terrifying than any enemy combatant—a valley overrun by dinosaurs.
Adding depth to the cast, “Primitive War” features a diverse range of talent, including Anthony Ingruber, Aaron Glenane, Carlos Sanson Jr, Ana Thu Nguyen, Adolphus Waylee, Richard Brancatisano, Marcus Johnson, and Jake Ryan. Each actor brings unique skills to this high-stakes narrative, promising viewers an immersive and visceral cinematic experience.
Directed and scripted by Sparke, who has previously captivated audiences with “Occupation Rainfall” and “Bring Him To Me”, “Primitive War” is a passion project produced under Sparke Films. The production team includes Carmel Imrie, Carly Sparke, executive producers Geoff Imrie, and co-producer Alex Becconsall, with Wade Muller as director of photography. Sparke aims to blend action, survival-horror, and war themes into a gripping story that he describes as decidedly not “a walk in the park”.
Reflecting on the project, Sparke shared, “I was captivated by the imagery and story within Ethan’s book. My goal is to capture that essence, along with the grittiness, horror aspects, and military edge. I envision the characters as if they’ve stepped right out of ‘Platoon’ and into a confrontation with the planet’s most formidable predators.” Ethan Pettus, the original author, expressed his excitement about the adaptation, confident in Sparke’s vision and dedication to the project.
As “Primitive War” moves forward, its blend of historical military conflict with the untamed ferocity of dinosaurs is poised to offer a unique and thrilling addition to the sci-fi horror genre.
With a talented cast and crew at the helm, audiences can eagerly anticipate a cinematic experience that pushes the boundaries of imagination and reality.