We’re once again delving deep into the world of sequels!
From exciting and even shocking updates about the first family of cartoon superheroes, to never-before-told stories about everyone’s favourite fictional halfling – get it all here!
Peter Sohn To Direct “The Incredibles 3”
Yup, you read the subheading right, folks! The beloved superhero family is back for a third installment, this time with the critically acclaimed director Peter Sohn (known for his work on “Elemental” and “The Good Dinosaur”).
The series follows Bob and Helen Parr, former superheroes who are forced into retirement due to a government mandate. They decide to live their lives out quietly in the suburbs with their three kids. However, when they discover a conspiracy of global domination, the whole family springs into action to save the day.
The film franchise is one of the more famous creations of the legendary filmmaker and animator Brad Bird, who wrote the screenplay for and directed the first two installments. The first, which was released all the way back in 2004, won an Academy Award for best animated film in 2005, while its sequel, which was released 14 years later, grossed US$1.4 billion globally. It was easily one of the most highly anticipated and successful sequels released by Disney, thanks in large part to the film’s adoring fanbase.
Of course, not wanting to make fans wait any longer, Disney officially announced a third film during the D23 Expo back in August of last year. At the time, it was largely known that Bird was “developing” the project. No additional information was provided, and many were quick to assume that he would handle the creation of this film, as he is well known for taking a more hands-on approach in directing. Hence, it was a big surprise that Sohn will be taking over the director’s seat. The likely reason why Bird won’t be handling this installment is because of his schedule, as he is already in the pre-production phase with Skydance for their upcoming animated feature “Ray Gunn”.
However, if this change of hands worries you, it shouldn’t. The two have worked together extensively, including on the first two “Incredibles” movies. Bird has directly mentored Sohn in helping him become the director that he is today and was even handpicked by Bird and Pixar CEO Pete Docter to carry on this upcoming chapter for the superhero family. The famed director may not be taking on the reins this time around, but we can rest assured knowing that the film is in good hands!
Andy Serkis Shares Updates On “The Lord Of The Rings: The Hunt For Gollum”
Ever since “Lord of the Rings” it was releaved that Andy Serkis, the actor for Gollum, is bringing a new chapter of the beloved fantasy novel to the silver screen, fans have been living! And why wouldn’t they? One of the original cast members returning not only to reprise his iconic role, but also to the director’s seat? Yes, please!
For those who are unfamiliar with this hidden chapter in Tolkien’s works, it takes place between “The Hobbit” and “The Fellowship of the Ring”, exploring where the titular character was before he was ultimately apprehended by Sauron’s forces and then, later, bumped into Sam and Frodo. And for those concerned whether or not it is canonical to Tolkien’s actual work, it is; the legendary author has several information-packed appendices that detail the adventures and plights of the fallen hobbit as he searches for his precious.
In an interview with Collider, Serkis revealed that the film has already entered the early stages of production. Furthermore, he also shared that shooting can take place, most likely, “in the early to mid-part of next year”. Additionally, the legendary actor has explained that this is a “sizeable movie”, much like the original Peter Jackson trilogy, but he’s excited to get to work all the same.
“I’m incredibly excited to go back and work with my friends and family in New Zealand and actually do something which is, I think, going to be surprising, and yet very much part of the lore and the feel of the trilogy. The sensibility of it will feel, I think, close to that, and yet we’re investigating in greater depth the character formerly known as Smeagol, but mostly known as Gollum.”
Though the project has been delayed by a year, the team are still eager to get to work to bring “The Hunt for Gollum” to life. Not only that, but Serkis has also promised to give the film a Peter Jackson-level of polish, ensuring that it remains cohesive with the trilogy that we know and love. Of course, with such high promise, we can usually expect a one- to two-year turnover period, especially for a blockbuster film. But much like the LOTR crew, we are all excited for the finished product that is set to hit theatres in December 2027.
Sources: Variety, Collider, The Hollywood Reporter
