The first teaser trailer for Rogue Trooper, an animated science fiction movie adapted from the legendary British 2000 AD comic book series, has arrived. The film, a collaboration between Rebellion and Liberty Films, is set for release in 2026. Directed and written by Duncan Jones, known for acclaimed titles like Moon, Source Code, and Warcraft, the project brings together a star-studded cast and sharp visuals for a story steeped in comic lore.

A Tale of Betrayal and Vendetta

Rogue Trooper follows the story of 19, a “Genetic Infantryman” or G.I., who survives a doomed invasion force. Betrayed by an unidentified traitor, 19 becomes the lone survivor of his regiment. Equipped with artificial companions—personalities of three fallen comrades stored in his gun, helmet, and backpack—he embarks on a perilous mission to find the individual responsible for his squad’s downfall. Originally conceived by artist Dave Gibbons (Watchmen, Kingsman) and writer Gerry Finley-Day, the 2000 AD story remains one of the publication’s most iconic creations, alongside Judge Dredd.

Star-Powered Cast

The voice cast for Rogue Trooper is an impressive ensemble. Heading the lineup is Aneurin Barnard (The Goldfinch, Dunkirk) as the titular Rogue Trooper. Hayley Atwell (Captain America: The First Avenger, Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One) and Sean Bean (Game of Thrones, The Lord of the Rings) also join the roster, ensuring a strong lineup of talent to breathe life into this animated venture.

Rounding out the cast are Jack Lowden (Slow Horses, Dunkirk), Reece Shearsmith (Inside No. 9, Saltburn), Daryl McCormack (Bad Sisters, Good Luck to You, Leo Grande), Jemaine Clement (Avatar: The Way of Water), Matt Berry (What We Do in the Shadows), Diane Morgan (Cunk on Earth), Alice Lowe (Black Mirror), and Asa Butterfield (Sex Education, Hugo). This varied group of actors brings a wealth of dramatic and comedic expertise to the adaptation.

Production Backing and Creative Team

Under the direction of Duncan Jones, Rogue Trooper benefits from a production team well-versed in genre filmmaking. Co-producers Stuart Fenegan (Moon, Source Code, Mute, Warcraft), Jason Kingsley (Dredd, School’s Out Forever), Chris Kingsley (Dredd, School’s Out Forever), and Jones himself aim to weave an atmospheric take on the comic’s gritty, dystopian world. The animation marks a significant departure from Jones's previous live-action endeavors, though his pedigree in sci-fi storytelling suggests a natural fit.

Rebellion, the entertainment company behind 2000 AD, continues its efforts to bring its comic book worlds to broader audiences. A notable producer behind 2012’s Dredd, the Kingsley brothers add Rogue Trooper to the growing slate of adaptations based on British comic properties.

Duncan Jones Returns to Sci-Fi

After creating celebrated science fiction films like Moon and Source Code, Duncan Jones returns to the genre with a new medium for storytelling: animation. While much of Jones's earlier work explored weighty themes in live-action, Rogue Trooper allows him to explore a medium deeply intertwined with the vivid, larger-than-life world of comic book art. For fans of his earlier works, this project signals both a creative evolution and a return to a genre that has long defined his career.

Anticipation for 2026 Release

While an official release date within 2026 is yet to be announced, the teaser offers a first glimpse at the project’s scale and tone, which are expected to resonate with sci-fi enthusiasts and 2000 AD fans alike. The combination of a respected creative team, a high-profile cast, and a beloved source material positions Rogue Trooper as a highlight in the upcoming slate of animated films.

Rogue Trooper represents an ambitious adaptation and joins the ranks of other recent efforts to bring comic books to the screen. For existing fans of 2000 AD or newcomers drawn to its gritty universe of antiheroes and intense, action-packed narratives, the film promises both visual intrigue and compelling storytelling. Whether you’re a longtime reader of British comics or simply eager for bold science fiction, this is one to watch in 2026.