Nicolas Winding Refn revives Maniac Cop with a dark 2027 reboot
Nicolas Winding Refn is set to direct a fresh take on Maniac Cop, the 1988 cult horror classic. The project, long in development, will begin filming in Los Angeles in January 2027. Refn acquired the rights to the original film over a decade ago and has been shaping the reboot ever since. The original Maniac Cop was helmed by William Lustig and followed a vengeful ex-officer, Matt Cordell, who returns from the dead to target New Yorkers while disguised in a police uniform. The story tapped into fears of police corruption and brutality, themes that remain relevant today.
Refn’s version, titled *Her Private Hell*, premiered as a short film at the Cannes Film Festival in 2023. Now expanded into a full feature, it will be fully financed by Mubi, which also plans a wide theatrical release. Goodfellas is co-producing, while Veterans will handle international sales. Refn will direct and produce through his byNWR Originals banner. The film’s narrative stays true to the original’s premise: a killer in a police uniform stalking victims across New York. This time, however, the story delves deeper into the character’s origins and the systemic failures that fuel his rampage.
Production kicks off in early 2027, with Mubi backing both financing and distribution. The film’s blend of horror and social commentary will likely draw attention, especially given Refn’s distinctive visual style. After years of development, the reboot is finally moving forward with a clear release strategy in place.
