Jean-Claude Van Damme’s ‘Timecop’ targeted for possible remake

The sci-fi films of the 1980s and ‘90s have been ripe for remakes lately — and the latest project that could be reinvented is none other than Jean-Claude Van Damme’s time-travel action flick Timecop. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Universal Pictures is putting a reboot into development, with Tom McNulty and Marc Shmuger (We Steal Secrets: The Story of WikiLeaks) producing. The original 1994 film was based upon a story published by Dark Horse Comics, and featured Van Damme as a time-travelling police officer tracking down a corrupt politician played by Ron Silver. The film resulted in a direct-to-video sequel and a brief television series as well. The new film would be a complete reboot of the series, not a sequel or prequel in any way.

Timecop was never the kind of modern genre classic that Robocop became, and development starting on a project is by no means a guarantee that it will actually hit theaters. Still, the fact that Universal is turning to this title is just a further sign that science-fiction films are back in a very big way. Unfortunately, those hoping to see Van Damme return to the franchise may be out of luck: there is no plan for the actor to return at this time.