David Dastmalchian to Play M. Bison in 'Street Fighter' Movie: Can He Top Raul Julia’s Legacy?
David Dastmalchian, known for Dune and The Suicide Squad, is stepping into the boots of M. Bison in the upcoming Street Fighter film. But can he match the legendary performance of Raul Julia?
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David Dastmalchian, a veteran of Dune and The Suicide Squad, is set to play M. Bison in the new Street Fighter film.
Raul Julia’s 1994 portrayal of Bison is a cult classic, known for its over-the-top hamminess and dedication to his children’s love of the franchise.
Fans are buzzing about Dastmalchian’s potential to bring a darker, more nuanced Bison, but Julia’s shadow looms large.
Dastmalchian as M. Bison: A Bold Choice
According to DiscussingFilm’s July 1 X post, David Dastmalchian has been tapped to play M. Bison, the iconic villain and leader of the criminal organization Shadaloo. Known for his roles in The Life of Chuck and Apple TV+'s Murderbot, Dastmalchian brings an offbeat intensity to the role. His take on Bison is expected to differ dramatically from the theatrical, fan-favorite portrayal by Raul Julia in the 1994 adaptation. It’s a high bar to clear, but Dastmalchian is no stranger to bringing depth to complex characters.
Julia’s Unforgettable Bison
Before Dastmalchian, there was Raul Julia. In the 1994 Street Fighter film, Julia delivered a performance that’s become legendary, despite the movie’s mixed reception. Battling stomach cancer during filming, Julia embraced Bison’s over-the-top villainy with a hammy gusto that’s unforgettable. “For me, it was Tuesday,” he declared, turning a line into a meme before memes were a thing. His dedication was personal; he took the role because his children loved the franchise, wanting to star in a film they could enjoy.
Julia’s Bison saved the film, transforming it from a mess into a funny, lighthearted action flick. Eurogamer notes his performance was so iconic that the film’s credits include “For Raúl. Vaya con Dios,” a tribute to his legacy. Fans on Reddit call it “unmatched,” with one user saying, “He made Bison the star, even if the movie wasn’t.” Julia’s Bison is a high bar, a blend of theater and tragedy that’s hard to top.
The Shadow of a Legend
Dastmalchian’s casting has sparked debate. Can he match Julia’s larger-than-life energy, or will he go for a darker, more grounded approach? X posts show excitement for his Dune and Suicide Squad creds, but nostalgia for Julia’s Bison is strong. “Raul Julia’s Bison is untouchable,” one user wrote, while another hopes Dastmalchian “brings something new without losing the fun.”
The Street Fighter film’s success hinges on Bison’s portrayal. Julia’s version was a campy delight, a villain you loved to hate. Dastmalchian’s could be a more sinister threat, but the risk is losing the charm that made Julia’s performance a cult classic. It’s a tightrope walk, and all eyes are on whether he can balance it.
Confirmed Cast: Fighters and Fan Favorites
Legendary has assembled a cast that reflects the diversity and flair of the Street Fighter franchise:
Andrew Koji as Ryu: With martial arts cred and dramatic chops, Koji is a natural fit for the disciplined hero.
Callina Liang as Chun-Li: Liang’s roles in Presence and Bad Genius show she’s ready to bring grace and power to the Interpol officer.
Joe Anoa’i (Roman Reigns) as Akuma: The WWE star has the physicality to make the dark warrior terrifying.
Jason Momoa as Blanka: Momoa’s presence and charisma could bring unexpected depth to the fan-favorite mutant.
Orville Peck as Vega: The masked country musician’s flamboyant persona is a fascinating match for the narcissistic, claw-wielding Spanish fighter.
Rumors in the Ring: 50 Cent as Balrog?
While not officially confirmed, Bounding Into Comics has reported:
Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson may play Balrog, the powerful boxer with a mean streak.
Andrew Schulz is rumored to portray Dan Hibiki, the overconfident, comic relief fighter.
These additions, if true, suggest a film that isn’t afraid to lean into the exaggerated personalities that define the franchise.
Production Notes: A Rocky Start
The Street Fighter reboot has been in development since April 2023. Initially, Danny and Michael Philippou (Talk to Me) were attached to direct but have since stepped away. Plot details remain under wraps, but Legendary appears to be building toward a broad ensemble piece rather than a narrow origin story.
What Comes Next?
With filming yet to begin and no release date on the books, the project remains in its early stages. But the casting choices so far indicate that Legendary is aiming for something bold—a mix of action, stylized storytelling, and perhaps even a bit of self-aware humor. As new announcements roll out, anticipation is bound to build among longtime fans and newcomers alike.
News compiled and edited by Derek Gibbs and Steven Bubbles on July 1, 2025. Follow us on ClownfishTV.com for more gaming, pop culture and tech news, and consider subscribing for only $5 per month to get access to exclusive podcasts and other content.
Sources:
DiscussingFilm, "David Dastmalchian has been cast as M. Bison in the live-action ‘Street Fighter’ movie," July 1, 2025
Bounding Into Comics, casting rumors for Chun-Li, Balrog, and Dan Hibiki
Deadline, "Street Fighter Movie Casts David Dastmalchian As M. Bison," July 1, 2025
Dexerto, Street Fighter movie status update, June 27, 2025
ScreenRant, development history and casting roundup, March 26, 2025
ScreenRant, archival article on Raul Julia’s M. Bison, May 21, 2021