Operation Epic Fury airmen rescue movie to be directed by Michael Bay
The Jerusalem Post
Last updated: May 21, 2026
Hollywood director Michael Bay is developing a feature film based on a dramatic US airmen rescue mission during a recent conflict involving Iran. The movie will be based on an upcoming book and Bay plans to collaborate with the US military and potentially the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF).
- Key Elements: Michael Bay is collaborating with Universal Pictures on a film about a rescue mission to save two US airmen shot down during "Operation Epic Fury."
- The film will be based on a book by Mitchell Zuckoff, scheduled for publication in 2027.
- The rescue mission, which took place in the Zagros Mountains, occurred about a month after the conflict's commencement.
- Bay, known for action films like "Transformers" and war movies like "Pearl Harbor," has a history of working with the US military for accuracy.
- He expressed his desire to honor service members who responded to a complex, high-stakes operation.
- While not confirmed, Israeli film industry sources suggest Bay may consult with the IDF, which provided intelligence during the rescue.
- Bay has previously visited Israel and worked with Israeli talent.
- He is a commercially successful director, with his films grossing billions worldwide.
