A sequel to Ridley Scott’s Prometheus. Now there is an announcement which will draw mixed emotions from many of us sc-fi aficionados.

This year’s most talked about non-superhero film, the epically conceived semi-prequel to his own majestic Alien some decades earlier did not quite live up to the expectations of over a 30 year wait, but none of us can criticise at least the audacity of Ridley Scott’s visionary attempt at re-imagining the universe.

20th Century Fox chief Tom Rothman has told the trades that a “Prometheus” sequel will likely hit theaters in either 2014 or 2015. This wasn’t actually as guaranteed to happen as you might think. Despite the huge marketing for the movie, Prometheus only earned $302 million worldwide on a $150 million budget. Domestically, the film actually lost money… only taking $125 million in its entire run. This is the kind of profit numbers that were so desperately low that it must have put some doubt in the minds of Fox execs that a sequel was a financially dangerous move but the buzz and debate that has carried on about the film and its meanings still months after its release perhaps has convinced them that it’s worthwhile endeavour. (though don’t be surprised if all sequel plans are abandoned if the Blu-ray doesn’t sell well later this year).

Rothman said of the sequel announcement;

“Ridley is incredibly excited about the movie, but we have to get it right, we can’t rush it.”

So what do we know? Well Rothman confirmed that the only actors currently signed on are Noomi Rapace and Michael Fassbender reprising their roles as the Ripley wannabe and the untrustworthy android head respectively. Charlize Theron will not return, as, just in case you forgot, she got squashed by a giant alien ship. But then again, it is Hollywood, so don’t rule her out completely just yet.

Intriguingly, writer Damon Lindelof may not return to write the screenplay. The Star Trek and Lost writer may have too much on his place which some critics of Promehteus and its ambiguity will probably find refreshing.  Good news or not, you decide. Early rumours suggest Fox are already in talks with alternative writers.

Although a sequel to Prometheus may be a year or two away, you will not have to wait long for Ridley Scott to return. His next project, The Counselor, is already in production. A stellar cast includes Brad Pitt, Javier Bardem, Penelope Cruz, Cameron Diaz, John Leguizamo, and of course, Michael Fassbender.

You Might Also Like...

Want to write about the stuff you're passionate about and have your work read by an audience of over 10 million a month? Click here to become a contributor.