Jennifer's Body 2: A Cult Classic's Sequel, Finally on the Horizon?
The long-awaited sequel to the 2009 horror-comedy Jennifer's Body is reportedly set to begin filming in October, according to a listing in Production Weekly. While there's no official confirmation from 20th Century Studios, the publication's track record suggests that this could be a significant step towards bringing the cult classic back to the big screen.
The original film, directed by Karyn Kusama, struggled at the box office upon its release, earning only $31.5 million worldwide against a $16 million budget. However, in the years since, it has undergone a remarkable critical reappraisal, becoming one of the most beloved cult films of its era. This resurgence in popularity has fueled the discussion of a sequel, and now, it seems, that discussion is turning into action.
The screenwriter, Diablo Cody, has confirmed that she has completed the script for the sequel, and her enthusiasm for the project is palpable. In an interview, Cody described the writing process as 'unleashed' and 'careless in the best way', indicating that she had the freedom to explore new ideas and themes. She also emphasized the influence of the original film's rediscovery, stating that the sequel is 'infused with love and appreciation and discovery'.
Cody's words hint at a deeper connection between the sequel and the original, suggesting that the new film will not only build upon the cult classic's legacy but also reflect the evolution of its themes and ideas. This approach is a refreshing change from typical sequels, which often focus on protecting the elements of the original while adding minimal new content.
The original film, a dark comedy-horror, followed the story of Jennifer Check (Megan Fox), a popular high school student who becomes possessed by a demon after a botched occult sacrifice. As Jennifer's demonic nature manifests, she begins to feed on teenage boys, and her best friend, Needy (Amanda Seyfried), becomes the only one who can stop her. The sequel is expected to continue this intriguing narrative, with Seyfried and Fox returning to their roles.
Producer Mason Novick shared similar enthusiasm, praising the script's humor and its ability to honor the original while also making fun of it. He highlighted the script's relevance to contemporary issues, suggesting that the sequel will address topics that were not possible to discuss in the first film. This commitment to staying true to the original while pushing boundaries is a promising sign for fans.
However, it's important to note that the October filming schedule is still a rumor, and there's no official release date announced. Despite this, the prospect of a Jennifer's Body sequel is an exciting development for horror fans, especially those who fell in love with the original's unique blend of humor and horror. As the project progresses, fans can expect further updates and, hopefully, a release date announcement.
In conclusion, the potential sequel to Jennifer's Body is a fascinating development, offering a rare opportunity to revisit a cult classic and explore its themes in new and exciting ways. With the right execution, this sequel could become another beloved addition to the horror-comedy genre, solidifying its place in cinematic history.
