Brendan Fraser, Rachel Weisz Negotiating Mummy Franchise Return
Universal Pictures is exploring the revival of its iconic Mummy franchise. Both Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz are in negotiations to reprise their roles, raising excitement among fans of the original films. While specific plot details remain undisclosed, discussions are ongoing for a new installment centered around the beloved characters from the 1999 and 2001 films.
Key Details of the Upcoming Mummy Film
- Directors: Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, known for their work with Radio Silence.
- Screenwriter: David Coggeshall, recognized for The Family Plan films.
- Producers: Sean Daniel, William Sherak, James Vanderbilt, and Paul Neinstein of Project X Entertainment.
Franchise Background
Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz originally starred in The Mummy (1999) and The Mummy Returns (2001). These films were directed by Stephen Sommers and collectively grossed over $400 million worldwide. Fraser played Rick O’Connell, a daring adventurer, while Weisz portrayed Evelyn Carnahan, an Egyptologist. The duo’s journey of battling ancient curses, including the notorious high priest Imhotep, captivated audiences.
Your Favorite Characters
- Rick O’Connell: A former French Foreign Legion soldier and brave adventurer.
- Evelyn Carnahan: An English Egyptologist who discovers her connection to ancient curses.
The films showcased their evolution from partners to a married couple, highlighting their struggles against supernatural threats. In The Mummy Returns, Evelyn, who is revealed to be the reincarnation of an Egyptian princess, faces perilous events, including her own death and revival.
Franchise Popularity and Spin-offs
The Mummy franchise significantly impacted pop culture, inspiring attractions in Universal’s theme parks around the world. The 2002 spinoff, The Scorpion King, featuring Dwayne Johnson, earned over $180 million. The series continued with the 2008 release of The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor, showcasing Fraser but without Weisz as part of the cast. This film also performed well at the box office, grossing $403 million globally.
In 2017, Universal attempted to reset the franchise with a new vision starring Tom Cruise, but despite earning $409 million, the film fell short of expectations and failed to kickstart a new cinematic universe.
Looking Ahead
The potential return of Fraser and Weisz suggests a strong nod to nostalgia. Their previous Mummy films have garnered a dedicated fan base that could help revitalize interest in the franchise. Given the studio’s recent struggles with contemporary monster movie adaptations, returning to a beloved classic may be a strategic move.
Brendan Fraser’s career is witnessing a resurgence following his Academy Award win for The Whale. He is set to appear in the film Rental Family, arriving in theaters on November 21. Meanwhile, Rachel Weisz continues to thrive with roles in Prime Video’s Dead Ringers and Marvel’s Black Widow.
As Universal Pictures moves forward with these discussions, fans eagerly await confirmation of Fraser and Weisz’s return to the franchise that solidified their status in Hollywood.
