14 DAY TRIAL // Sequels and prequels are a long-established tradition in Hollywood, with movie studios putting out follow-ups sometimes within months from each other or even shooting them back-to-back. One sequel that few saw coming is, however, that to the 2007 blockbuster “300,” based on a Frank Miller graphic novel and starring Gerard Butler. Yet, it is in the making as we speak, the Risky Business Blog informs.
The RBB claims to have it from very reliable sources that a sequel to “300” will be released, given that the movie, back then a mere underdog in the race of comic-book adaptations, made an impressive $460 million at the international box-office and is considered, to this day, a milestone in modern cinematography. Frank Miller has already finished work on a first draft for the graphic novel, which will be taken, once completed, and turned into a movie script.
“The question remains which screenwriter will be charged with tackling Miller’s version: while the word in the development community is that ‘300’ co-writer Kurt Johnstad will be back for a return engagement, Warners says he has not been hired at this time. The scribe is penning the war drama ‘The Last Photograph,’ also for Warners, Hollywood Gang and Cruel & Unusual. Helmer Zack Snyder is not officially attached to the follow-up, though he has expressed interest in directing the pic. There’s undeniably movement on the project.” the RBB says.
Snyder, for one, is believed to be already involved in the development of the project, even if not yet officially attached. His task, as the aforementioned movie-oriented publication also points out, is more difficult than that of other movie directors, because he has to come up with a sequel to a material in which all his heroes died at the end. The same goes for Frank Miller, the creator. Because of this, the idea of “300” part 2 being actually a prequel is also widely circulated right now.
“But in an industry that likes to churn out sequels quickly (see under: the ‘Twilight’ franchise), Miller is taking a more deliberate pace to his new installment. Creating a straight sequel will be difficult given the number of main characters who died in the original. Miller’s primary options are either to pen a prequel that features many of the main characters or a sequel with a new group of characters. The latter would preclude much of the original cast – including Gerard Butler, now a much bigger star – from returning in lead roles.” RBB further explains.
As of now, nothing is certain regarding the “300” sequel but, in true “there is never smoke without a fire” fashion, if a rumor exists, then perhaps something is actually in the works. Keep an eye on this space for more.