It’s quite remarkable that the long-awaited Coke vs. Pepsi cinematic showdown is finally materializing. News has surfaced that Sony Pictures has dished out a substantial $1.5 million to secure the rights for a promising pitch titled “Cola Wars,” poised to recount the gripping narrative of Pepsi’s bold endeavor to snatch market share from the reigning titan of the beverage industry, Coca-Cola.
Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous 1980s, famously dubbed the era of the “cola wars,” this upcoming film promises to delve deep into the relentless battle between Coca-Cola and Pepsi for soda supremacy. Expect to relive iconic moments, such as the hair-raising incident where Michael Jackson’s locks caught ablaze during the filming of a Pepsi commercial, and the notorious episode when Coca-Cola’s ill-fated attempt at introducing New Coke was swiftly retracted amidst a storm of consumer backlash.
Penned by the dynamic duo of Jason Shuman and Ben Queen, the creative minds behind notable projects like the Apple TV+ series “Acapulco” and the beloved “Cars” franchise, respectively, “Cola Wars” marks their inaugural collaboration. Interestingly, despite their longstanding friendship since adolescence, it’s revealed that Shuman leans towards the Pepsi camp while Queen proudly champions Team Coke.
In the real world, Coca-Cola stands tall as the undisputed leader in global soda revenue, boasting not only the iconic Coke beverage but also a diverse portfolio including Dasani water, Sprite, Fanta, and Powerade. Meanwhile, Pepsi holds its ground as the formidable runner-up, commanding a strong presence with brands such as Mountain Dew and Gatorade, among others.
Despite the buzz surrounding Sony Pictures’ acquisition of the movie concept, it’s essential to temper expectations, recognizing that the journey from idea to silver screen is laden with uncertainties. At this nascent stage, details regarding casting, direction, or release dates remain shrouded in mystery, a common occurrence in the ever-evolving landscape of Hollywood where projects often languish in development limbo.