'Uncharted' movie release date, news: film to be directed by 'Stranger Things' director Shawn Levy

A screenshot from "Uncharted 4"Naughty Dog, Sony

"Uncharted" is one of the most highly praised video game franchises from Naughty Dogs and Sony Entertainment, and a film adaptation is currently in the works. Sony Pictures has now announced that they have hired Shawn Levy to direct the movie.

According to Deadline, director Joe Carnahan has been working on the film's script and is still attached to the project. However, he is not going to direct the film despite having directed action films like "A-Team" and "The Grey," both of which starred Liam Neeson in the leading roles.

Levy, who helmed all three "Night at the Museum" films, is most widely known now for helming several episodes of the successful Netflix original show, "Stranger Things." Levy is also set to direct more episodes when the show starts production for its second season.

"Arrival," directed by Denis Villeneuve, was also worked on and produced by Shawn Levy. As noted by the report, he is one of the most prolific directors in the business today.

Screen Rant reports that Levy is a natural fit for the movie given that the "Uncharted" games have a strong emphasis on exploration, mystery, and action. They have often been compared to the likes of "Tomb Raider" and the "Indiana Jones" movies, particularly since the main character is a treasure hunter.

It is further noted that no official release date has been announced yet, and no actor has yet been cast as the protagonist, Nathan Drake. Some actors such as Mark Wahlberg and Chris Pratt are rumored to be in consideration for the role. Pratt was also one of the rumored actors for the new "Indiana Jones" film until it was confirmed that Harrison Ford was reprising his role.

No further details have been stated about the film's story, and it is uncertain if it will be a direct adaptation of one of the games or a separate entry that is set in the timeline of the games.