Key Highlights
- Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz are in talks to star in a new ‘Mummy’ sequel.
- Radio Silence, known for hits like ‘Ready or Not,’ will direct the project.
- The original Mummy franchise launched between 1999 and 2008, grossing over $422.5 million.
- The new movie is not a reboot but a sequel that disregards the events of the third film.
Renewed Interest in Classic Monster Franchise
Universal Pictures has revived its classic monster franchise with plans for a new ‘Mummy’ sequel. The project, which is currently in talks, would see Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz return to the roles that made them household names during the 1990s and early 2000s.
Original Mummy Franchise
The original ‘Mummy’ trilogy, directed by Stephen Sommers and released between 1999 and 2008, brought a fresh spin to the classic Universal Monsters line. With a mix of action-adventure, romance, and horror set in the early 1920s, the films were not only box office hits but also revitalized the careers of both Fraser and Weisz.
Fraser played Indiana-like treasure hunter Rick O’Connell, alongside Weisz as the spunky librarian Evelyn Carnahan. Their journey through ancient Egypt to awaken a powerful high priest became a landmark in 2000s filmmaking, grossing over $422.5 million worldwide and becoming one of Universal’s most reliable franchises.
Reunion with Radio Silence
The project is set to be directed by Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett from the filmmaking team behind ‘Ready or Not’ (2019) and co-directors of the recent Scream revival. Radio Silence has established a reputation for reviving underappreciated genres with their clever, fun approach.
The filmmakers are known for their ability to infuse classic horror tropes with modern sensibilities, as seen in ‘Scream’ (2022) and its follow-up the year after. Their involvement promises to bring a fresh perspective while honoring the legacy of the original films.
Cast and Production Details
Brendan Fraser, whose career was revitalized with his starring role in 2022’s ‘The Whale,’ directed by Darren Aronofsky, is set to reprise his role. He will next be seen in the comedic drama ‘Rental Family,’ which opens on November 21, 2024.
Rachel Weisz, who starred in Amazon Prime Video’s gender-swapped version of ‘Dead Ringers’ and co-starred in Marvel’s ‘Black Widow,’ is also confirmed to return. Both actors are represented by CAA, Linden Entertainment, and Felker Toczek for Fraser, and CAA, Linde, and the U.K.’s Independent Talent Group for Weisz.
Sean Daniel, who produced the original films with his late partner James Jacks, is back as producer. He will be joined by frequent Radio Silence collaborators William Sherak, James Vanderbilt, and Paul Neinstein through their Project X Entertainment banner.
Future of Mummy Franchise
The new ‘Mummy’ movie is described as a sequel that does not disregard the events of the third film but rather builds upon them. David Coggeshall wrote the screenplay for this project, ensuring continuity with the franchise’s legacy while also bringing something fresh to the table.
Universal Pictures appears confident in both Radio Silence and Fraser’s return, having already hired the filmmakers for their 2024 vampire horror film ‘Abigail.’ The success of this reunion is expected to bolster Universal’s roster and further cement its place as a go-to destination for classic monster franchises.
The project marks an exciting chapter in the Mummy franchise’s history, promising to bring back beloved characters while introducing new audiences to the enduring appeal of these timeless monsters. As talks continue, fans eagerly await news on casting details, release dates, and more specifics about this much-anticipated sequel.
