Netflix Cancels Denzel Washington Hannibal Epic Over Budget

A major historical epic starring Denzel Washington and directed by Antoine Fuqua has been shelved by Netflix after budget negotiations failed, according to the film's cinematographer. The project, a biopic about the legendary Carthaginian general Hannibal Barca, was canceled just weeks ago after its estimated production cost reportedly exceeded $200 million.

Cinematographer Robert Richardson confirmed the cancellation in recent interviews, stating the project "fell through just two weeks ago" and is "effectively dead." He had been attached to the film for approximately 10 to 12 weeks of pre-production work. The decision follows a pause in pre-production that began in June, when Netflix halted work so producers and the studio could attempt to resolve budget concerns.

The film was to be the sixth collaboration between Washington and Fuqua, following successes like "Training Day," "The Equalizer" trilogy, and "The Magnificent Seven." It was first announced in 2023 and was slated to begin principal photography this summer, with location scouting already underway in Italy. The screenplay was written by Oscar-winning writer John Logan, known for "Gladiator" and "Skyfall."