14 DAY TRIAL // “Universal Soldier” will live to fight another day, even though interest in it seems incredibly low these days. As plans for another film in the franchise seem to have stalled, reports have emerged that a new television series will be made.
Back in May 2010, word got out online that, despite the poor critical and fan reception of “Universal Soldier: Regeneration,” another one would still be made, this time to capitalize on the 3D boom.
Called “Universal Soldier: A New Dimension” (not too clever a pun, some say), the project seems to have stalled, but fans shouldn’t despair.
Even if the film never gets made, at least they will have something to remind them of the glory days of the franchise, hopefully: a brand new television show, Deadline informs.
“Those of you who cheered when Jean-Claude Van Damme and Dolph Lundgren went mano-a-mano in Roland Emmerich’s 1992 sci-flick Universal Soldier will be pleased to know that it is being rebooted as a TV series,” the e-zine says.
This is not a rumor either: the deal is done.
“Damian Kindler (Stargate, Sanctuary) is writing the show, which will be produced by FremantleMedia North America, the US arm of the London-based TV producer,” Deadline informs.
“Allen Shapiro and Craig Baumgarten, who produced the original movie, will be executive producers. Shapiro is currently chairman of TV Guide Network and was a founder of Mosaic Media Group, while Baumgarten’s movie credits include Hook and Shattered Glass,” the e-zine further informs.
For the time being, that’s about all the info fans have to go on. Not even an estimated release date has been announced.
However, word in the blogosphere has it that, given the age of Van Damme and Lundgren, the story would have nothing in common with the films except for the basic premise.
Of course, fans can still hope for a special appearance from the two at least in one episode, since producers must know how much cameos would be appreciated, it is further being said.