Hollywood director John Woo has optioned Japanese video game giant Nintendo's best-selling game "Metroid" for the big screen, underscoring the HK filmmaker's commitment to interactive entertainment.

Woo is already developing three original titles at his Tiger Hill video game studio using Hollywood talent.

The movie will center on the origins of the game's leading actress, sexy bounty hunter Samus Aran, and relate her adventures with the insidious Metroids.

Nintendo's "Metroid" has appeared in various incarnations since its introduction in 1986.

This is the second attempt to bring the game to the big screen. Producers Warren Zide and Craig Perry also optioned the film rights for "Metroid" early last year.

(Text: CRI, Photo Source: Reuters April 8, 2004)