Excitement is brewing for the upcoming Sony Pictures feature Cola Wars, as Judd Apatow has been confirmed to direct and Steven Spielberg will serve as a producer, The Hollywood Reporter has learned.
Cola Wars is set to explore the iconic soda battle that ignited in the mid-1980s, focusing on Pepsi’s ambitious challenge to Coca-Cola’s longstanding dominance in the soft drink industry. The film is still in its early stages of development following Sony’s acquisition of a pitch for the project earlier this year.
Judd Apatow, known for his successful comedies including The 40-Year-Old Virgin, Knocked Up, Funny People, and Trainwreck, will be at the helm of the film. His most recent directorial work was The Bubble, a 2022 Netflix comedy featuring Karen Gillan, Pedro Pascal, and Fred Armisen. Apatow’s involvement promises a blend of humor and insight into the competitive world of corporate America.
Steven Spielberg will produce Cola Wars through his company Amblin Entertainment. Spielberg’s extensive filmography includes classic hits like Jaws, E.T., and Schindler’s List, and his involvement signals a high level of prestige and anticipation for the film. Maia Eyre will oversee the project for Sony Pictures, ensuring its alignment with the studio’s vision.
The script for Cola Wars is being developed by Jason Shuman and Ben Queen. Shuman co-created the Apple TV+ series Acapulco and was an executive producer on HBO’s Winning Time. Queen has credits for his writing on The Addams Family 2 and the Cars sequels. Their collaboration is expected to bring a dynamic and engaging narrative to the soda industry’s legendary rivalry.
Cola Wars joins a growing trend of films that delve into corporate battles. Recent examples include Amazon Studios’ Air (2023), which depicted Nike’s pursuit of Michael Jordan’s endorsement deal, and Jerry Seinfeld’s comedy Unfrosted, released on Netflix earlier this year, exploring the competition between Post and Kellogg’s over the creation of the Pop-Tart.
The announcement of Apatow and Spielberg’s involvement in Cola Wars was first reported by Deadline, further heightening interest in this new addition to the genre of corporate dramas. With a powerhouse team behind the project, Cola Wars is poised to capture the intrigue and drama of one of the most famous rivalries in business history.
