“Real Steel’, the sci-fi boxing film starring Hugh Jackman, is getting a sequel. That’s right. A sequel to film which hasn’t opened yet- not until next October.Deadline gives us the lowdown:
Disney doesn’t release Real Steel until Oct. 7, but already DreamWorks is getting the machinery moving on a sequel to the Shawn Levy-directed drama that stars Hugh Jackman. I’m told the studio has commissioned John Gatins, who scripted the first film, to start on the second installment
While planning sequels before a film opens isn’t that unusal, in most cases, it is regarding a pre-sold franchise or potential franchise, such as Captain America. This one is a bit different, as there isn’t a pre-sold concept. But apparently, internal studio screenings of the film as well as positive response to the footage shown at CinemaCon have convinced Dreamworks to be ready for a hit. The teaser trailer does look good. The film is based on a Richard Matheson short story, so that’s a plus. Will audiences really go to the film? That’s another puzzle.
The big question becomes whether or not you think the first film has chops. It hasn’t been released yet. Do you think this is a good idea, int’l friends? Me, I don’t think it hurts to be prepared…and Jackman could have another franchise outside of Wolverine/X-Men.
The picture above is a screengrab off the teaser trailer.
