Back-To-Back ‘Independence Day’ Sequels Will Happen With Or Without Will Smith
Everything else we loved growing up is getting a belated sequel, so why notIndependence Day? Fifteen years afterRoland Emmerich’s alien-invasion movie became a smash hit, grossing $800 million worldwide, Fox is gearing up to produce two back-to-back sequels. Emmerich and his writing and producing partnerDean Devlinare said to be close to completing the scripts, which will tell one story in two parts.
Whether starWill Smithwill be back is another question, but the studio is reportedly prepared to move on without him if necessary. More details after the jump.
Although the plot of the two films have not been revealed, we do know that they’ll function independently of one another, but also tell one combined tale — to stealVulture’s example, thinkBack to the Future Parts 2 and 3instead ofHarry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Parts 1 and 2. The idea is to shoot them back to back, which may appeal to Smith as that arrangement would make it easier for him to spend more time with his family.
However, Smith’s involvement is a big if at this point. Fox and Smith began negotiating a deal back in 2009, but the studio balked when the star demanded a salary of $50 million to shoot both films and the two sides have yet to reach an agreement. Though Fox wants Smith back for obvious reasons, they are willing to make the film without him.
Smith’s acting career has been slowing down as of late, as he’s increasingly redirected his focus toward his family and his children’s careers. His last movie roles were in 2008’sHancockandSeven Pounds, and he won’t appear in another film until next year’sMen in Black III. He’s attached to star in M. Night Shyamalan’sOne Thousand A.E., but that project is said to be moving “extra-slow”; Smith shouldn’t have too much trouble squeezing inID2andID3if he decides he wants to do them.
If Smith passes on the project, Hollywood certainly isn’t lacking for establishedorrising talents who could do a fantastic job leading a sci-fi action movie. But wouldIndependence Dayreally be the same without him? Moreover, Smith is still considered a huge box-office draw in a way that few stars are these days, despite his hiatus from acting. Would you watch anIndependence Daymovie without Will Smith?
