A long-gestating adaptation of Joe Haldeman's 1974 novel The Forever War has been given a huge boost, with Channing Tatum now attached to both star in and produce. The project has sparked a bidding war between Warner Bros., Sony Pictures and an unidentified studio, although it is unclear at the moment who will win the rights. Jon Spaihts (Doctor Strange) is attached to write the screenplay, with Roy Lee (The Lego Movie) on board to produce.

The project has been in development since 2008, when Ridley Scott picked up the rights and developed it for several years as a directing vehicle. A number of writers such as David Webb Peoples (Blade Runner), Matthew Michael Carnahan (World War Z) and Dante Harper (Akira) worked on the screenplay, but this new package came together after the rights recently lapsed. Richard Edlund, who previously held the rights for over 20 years before Ridley Scott, is also involved as a producer.

The novel centers on a man who joins a task force during a war against a powerful alien species known as the Taurans. The soldier rises through the military ranks, but as he travels through space, he continues to age normally while centuries pass by on Earth. During this time, the planet goes through many changes, as humanity blends into one homogenous race which eliminates heterosexuality, while a new language evolves. He tries to stay connected to his one true love, as she also travels through space to slow down her aging so she can be with him. Channing Tatum most recently starred in Jupiter Ascending, and he will next be seen later this year in Magic Mike and The Hateful Eight.