Duncan Jones film based on Rogue Trooper announced Published duration 17 July 2018

image copyright Rebellion / Staz Johnson image caption Rogue Trooper is a blue-skinned, mohawk-sporting, genetically-engineered soldier

The next film by Moon and Source Code director Duncan Jones is based on a comic character from the 2000 AD strip.

Rogue Trooper is a blue-skinned, mohawk-sporting, genetically-engineered soldier who debuted in print in 1981.

Chris Kingsley, co-founder of Oxford-based publisher Rebellion, said Jones had a "unique level of commitment and passion" for the character.

Jones, who also directed Warcraft and Mute, said he was "so excited" to bring the character to the big screen.

Rebellion has recently been branching out into live action adaptations of its properties and last year announced a Judge Dredd TV series was in development

Rogue Trooper was created by writer Gerry Finley-Day and artist Dave Gibbons.

Jones, who is the son of iconic rock star David Bowie, said: "For years now, I have felt a sting as Marvel and DC have poured out their entire comic roster into film.

"Wonderful for their fans, but every new release I silently scream 'Where's all the 2000 AD?'

image copyright Getty Images image caption Director Duncan Jones has been a long time fan of the 2000 AD comic strip

"I'm so excited to finally be able to right that wrong and bring Finley-Day and Gibbons' Rogue Trooper, a seminal British spun war yarn, to the big screen."

Chris Kingsley said: "The first time I met Duncan he had a mohawk... it shows his unique level of commitment and passion for Rogue Trooper, and that's why we're so excited to be working with him and his legions."