‘Mummy’, ‘Matrix’ Sequels Planned

Mon., May 24, 1999

The Hollywood Reporter

Discussions are now under way for sequels to Universal Pictures’ “The Mummy” and Warner Bros.’ “The Matrix,” the biggest film openers of the year.

Universal, writer-director Steven Sommers and producers Jim Jacks and Sean Daniels are already planning a sequel to “The Mummy,” last weekend’s $43 million opener, with an idea to resurrect the mummy in London.

Meanwhile, “The Matrix,” which has taken in an estimated $140 million to date, is the next franchise for Warner Bros. and action producer Joel Silver. Both the studio and Silver have been actively looking for a replacement for the “Lethal Weapon” series.

“The Matrix” was written and directed by brothers Larry and Andy Wachowski. “The writers originally designed it as a trilogy,” said Lorenzo Di Bonaventura, president of worldwide theatrical productions at Warner Bros.

The studio hopes to secure Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, Carrie-Anne Moss and possibly even villain Joe Pantoliano to reprise their roles in two more “Matrix” films.

“The Mummy” stars Brendan Fraser, Rachel Weisz and Arnold Vosloo. Interestingly, both studios will have to make new deals with some of their cast. Sources said that Universal did not have a sequel option on Fraser nor did Warner Bros.’ on Reeves or Fishburne. That means those actors are in the catbird seat when it comes to contract negotiations.

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