'Dragon’s Lair' Levels Up: Ryan Reynolds and James Bobin Reboot Arcade Legend for Netflix

Netflix is breathing new fire into Dragon’s Lair, the gloriously over-animated 1983 arcade game that once ruled the neon-lit corners of America’s gaming halls. With The Muppets and Dora and the Lost City of Gold director James Bobin now in talks to helm the live-action adaptation, and Ryan Reynolds firmly attached to star and produce, this high-concept reboot is taking aim at both nostalgia and new audiences alike.

Originally released at the height of arcade fever, Dragon’s Lair stood out with its cinematic flair — quite literally. Created by legendary animator Don Bluth (The Secret of NIMH, An American Tail, The Land Before Time, All Dogs Go to Heaven), the game employed LaserDisc technology to deliver fluid, film-quality visuals, making players feel like they were controlling a cartoon. Its bold innovation didn’t quite reshape the gaming industry, but it did earn a cult following that’s lasted decades. Even Stranger Things couldn’t resist a nod.

The plot was pure fantasy comfort food: Dirk the Daring, a well-meaning (if slightly inept) knight, embarks on a perilous quest to rescue Princess Daphne from the clutches of the sinister dragon Singe and his evil wizard cohort, Mordroc. It’s easy to see why the mix of danger, camp, and dragons might appeal to Reynolds — whose signature blend of charm and meta-comedy feels like a natural fit for Dirk’s shiny armour.

Behind the scenes, the project boasts an impressive team. Bluth himself is on board as producer, alongside Gary Goldman and Jon Pomeroy, ensuring the adaptation retains a connection to its animated roots. Roy Lee (via Vertigo Entertainment) and Trevor Engelson of Underground are also producing.

First announced in 2020, the film now appears to be gaining momentum — and with Bobin potentially in the director’s chair, the tone promises to strike a balance between classic adventure and knowing irreverence.