The iconic Grand Theft Auto franchise is set to make a massive leap to the big screen with GTA: San Andreas, and Hollywood heavyweight Will Smith is taking on the lead role of Carl “CJ” Johnson.
Directed by visionary filmmaker Justin Lin, the movie is expected to stay true to the game’s gritty, open-world narrative.
Smith’s casting has generated significant buzz, as fans eagerly anticipate his portrayal of CJ, a man returning to Los Santos, a fictional city inspired by Los Angeles, after five years of exile. The story will follow his efforts to navigate the criminal underworld, facing corrupt police officers, gang violence, and an overarching quest to avenge his mother’s death.
Joining Smith is a star-studded ensemble, including Michael B. Jordan as CJ’s loyal but conflicted brother Sweet, and Oscar-winner Regina King playing Kendl, CJ’s strong-willed sister. Additional casting rumors suggest that Keanu Reeves might take on the role of Officer Tenpenny, the ruthless and corrupt cop at the center of CJ’s troubles.