Netflix has paused pre-production on Denzel Washington’s Hannibal epic over escalating budget concerns, forcing the streaming giant and filmmakers to reassess the ambitious historical project. The untitled film, directed by Antoine Fuqua, was scheduled to begin shooting this summer in Italy at Rome’s Cinecittà Studios but has been put on hold while producers and the studio work through budgetary issues.
The project’s estimated budget has ballooned to approximately $200 million, according to multiple sources, making it one of the most expensive productions Netflix has undertaken. Deadline first reported the production delay on June 4, with both sides confirming that the pause was necessary to resolve financial concerns before moving forward.
Washington will star as the Carthaginian general Hannibal, widely regarded as one of the greatest military commanders in history. The film, written by Oscar winner John Logan, will focus on the pivotal battles Hannibal led against the Romans during the Second Punic War. Washington is producing the film alongside Erik Olsen, Adam Goldworm, Todd Black, Clayton Townsend, and Fuqua via his Hill District Media’s first-look deal with Netflix, according to Variety.
The Hannibal project marks the sixth collaboration between Washington and Fuqua, whose professional relationship began with the 2001 crime thriller Training Day, for which Washington won the Academy Award for Best Actor. The pair have since reunited on The Magnificent Seven and three Equalizer films, making them one of Hollywood’s most consistent creative partnerships.
Fuqua recently completed the Michael Jackson biopic Michael, which has become one of the biggest hits of 2026, grossing over $850 million worldwide with a production budget exceeding $155 million, according to Variety. His current momentum in the industry underscores the high stakes surrounding the Hannibal project. Netflix had been actively preparing the film in recent weeks, with the studio meeting potential cast members and Fuqua’s team scouting locations in Italy when budget issues emerged. Both sides have expressed hope that the project will move forward once financial concerns are resolved.
Sources
- Variety — confirmed Netflix pause, budget concerns, script writer John Logan, producers, sixth collaboration detail, and Italy shooting location
- Deadline — first reported the production delay, confirmed budget issues and Italy location, noted pre-production activities
- MSN — reported budget estimates soaring past $200 million and Italy filming plans
- TheGrio — confirmed sixth collaboration detail and timeline of Washington-Fuqua relationship
