‘The Expendables’ female spin-off ‘Expendabelles’ revives stalled women driven version

Cannes buyers see Expendabelles origin story set in late 1990s Y2K era as Lionsgate backed slate expands action plans

The female-led expansion of the action universe linked to The Expendables is back in development with a new origin story now being introduced to buyers at the Cannes Film Festival. The project, titled Expendabelles, is being positioned as a global action event film and was unveiled as part of a wider slate of commercially driven titles presented by Eclectic Pictures and Hollywood Ventures Group.

The new version is being framed as an origin story set in the late 1990s during the height of Y2K-era uncertainty, with producers aiming to reimagine the franchise through a new generation of elite female operatives. According to the production team, the project is designed to stand independently while also expanding the mythology associated with the existing action brand. The approach reflects a broader industry push to build international franchise potential from established intellectual property.

The project is currently in the packaging phase, with producers actively assembling cast and creative talent. Lionsgate has provided support following its acquisition of rights to The Expendables franchise last year, signalling continued studio interest in expanding the universe into new directions. The original franchise, launched in 2010, became known for its ensemble cast of action stars and high intensity set pieces, later spawning multiple sequels and a global box office footprint.

Industry interest in Expendabelles follows years of attempts to bring a female centred version of the franchise to screen. Earlier development efforts in the 2010s did not move forward, but the renewed push reflects changing market expectations for action films led by female ensembles. Producers involved in the current iteration have described the project as a stylised, commercially focused action feature intended to appeal to worldwide audiences.

At Cannes, the slate presentation has attracted distribution discussions and early financing conversations, with partners exploring how the project could fit into upcoming production pipelines. The strategy centres on building a recognisable brand extension while updating the narrative framework for contemporary audiences.

While the project is still in early stages, the renewed momentum suggests a shift in how legacy action franchises are being reimagined for international markets, with Expendabelles positioned as a key test case for the viability of female driven expansion within long running cinematic universes.