In a significant development for fans of supernatural thrillers, actor Keanu Reeves has announced that he is working on a sequel to the 2005 film "Constantine." After more than a decade of efforts, Reeves and his team have finally secured approval from DC Studios to proceed with the project. This news comes as a welcome surprise, especially considering the character's rich history in comics and previous screen adaptations.
It was during a recent interview with Inverse that Reeves revealed the exciting news. He mentioned that they had been striving to bring this story to life for many years, and now, after successfully pitching their concept to DC Studios, they are ready to embark on the scriptwriting process. The original film, which starred Reeves as the exorcist John Constantine, garnered over $200 million at the global box office against a modest budget of $70 million. The cast also featured notable actors such as Rachel Weisz, Tilda Swinton, Gavin Rossdale, and Djimon Hounsou.
The character of John Constantine first appeared in the comic book series "Swamp Thing" issue number 37 before gaining his own standalone series called "Hellblazer." Over the years, various live-action portrayals of the character have emerged, including Matt Ryan's portrayal in a short-lived TV series and his subsequent appearances in the Arrowverse. More recently, Johanna Constantine, played by Jenna Coleman, reimagined the character in Netflix's canceled fantasy series "The Sandman."
The sequel was initially announced in 2022, with Francis Lawrence returning as director. Despite concerns following James Gunn and Peter Safran's takeover of DC, the film will continue under DC Studios but in a separate universe, much like Matt Reeves' "Batman." Reeves emphasized that the new movie would maintain the same melancholic atmosphere as its predecessor, with an even more tormented John Constantine.
For those eager to relive the magic, "Constantine" is currently available on Prime Video and Apple TV Plus. Fans can look forward to a deeper dive into the dark and complex world of John Constantine, promising more intense and emotional storytelling.
From a journalistic perspective, this sequel represents not only a continuation of a beloved character's journey but also a testament to the enduring appeal of well-crafted narratives. It underscores the importance of persistence in creative endeavors and the power of fan support in bringing projects to fruition. As we anticipate the new film, it's clear that the legacy of John Constantine continues to captivate audiences across generations.