SUBMITTED BY Toad
November 16, 2001 — Fianlly! News on 1995's breakout hit "Jumanji" which then starred Robin Williams, Bonnie Hunt and "Spider-Man's" Kirsten Dunst. To refresh memories of those who don't remember the film. "Jumanji" was about a pair of orphans that discovered a game (Jumanji) and start playing it, in the process they unwittingly unleash a man (Robin Williams) who's been trapped inside--as well as an array of stampeding jungle animals brought to vivid life by ILM.
Variety reports news that some 6 writers have tried cracking the code for the sequel but havent been successful. But, Columbia Pictures is taking a new approach by returning to the source.
The studio has optioned "Zathura," an upcoming book by "Jumanji" scribe Chris Van Allsburg, with the intent of it becoming "Jumanji 2." The book will be adapted by Eric Fogel, creator and exec producer of MTV's "Celebrity Deathmatch."
"Zathura" will be set within the confines of an intergalactic board game -- one that might be printed on the back of the "Jumanji" board.
Col has already spent millions of dollars and more than six years developing a sequel to "Jumanji," most recently making a seven-figure deal with "Big Momma's House" scribe Don Rhymer.
Rhymer's project will continue in development, although now it's quite likely to become "Jumanji 3." However, should Col decide to keep Rhymer's project as "Jumanji 2," "Zathura" would become a freestanding title in its own right.
More news on "Jumanji" as it arises! |
