Two 'Independence Day 2' Scripts Written, But Only One Includes Will Smith

The success or failure of Roland Emmerich's Independence Day sequel may depend on whether Will Smith returns as fighter pilot Captain Heller. For the most part, Smith has played close to the vest on his decision, and it seems like every time a new rumor surfaces on the issue, the situation has changed. Emmerich isn't taking any chances, and had screenwriter James Vanderbilt pen two different versions of the script.

While talking to ThePlaylist, Emmerich revealed that Will Smith's character is included in only one of the two scripts that have been completed by Vanderbilt. It's an unusual approach but makes sense just in case production needs to move forward without him. The director does seem confident, though, remarking that "It's looking good" on a Smith return.

What's unclear is if either script includes Captain Heller's grown up son, who some have been saying could be played by Michael B. Jordan. The only confirmed cast at this stage are the returning Jeff Goldblum and Bill Pullman, although Emmerich has suggested there could be more. He also seems to have scrapped plans to split the story into two separate movies.

Independence Day 2 is set to open July 3rd 2015.