6/23/2014

New Director Sought for 'G.I. Joe 3'; Teaser Poster Released


Despite Jon Chu frequently talking about his plans for a sequel to G.I. Joe: Retaliation, it was beginning to look more like he was getting some distance from the franchise. He circled the Star Trek 3 gig for some time, and then took on a live-action Jem and the Holograms. But when his name recently surfaced as the frontrunner to helm Now You See Me 2, it became clear he would not be chronicling the Real American Heroes' next adventure.

Collider spoke with producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura who confirmed that new directors are being sought for G.I. Joe 3....

di Bonaventura: “We’re just starting [to talk to directors]. We’re negotiating with a writer right now, and once we close that deal—which should be any moment—then we’ll have a story locked down. I’m really excited about it.” 

Paramount Pictures recently dated the film for some time in 2016, which means a production date of early next year is likely. Dwayne Johnson, who is due to return and take over the franchise as Roadblock, previously said filming would begin in January of 2015, but di Bonaventura says it will be a touch later...

di Bonaventura: "G.I. Joe 3 we are trying to get going, starting early next year…I think it’ll be a little later than [January]. I think February or March is probably more realistic. We were originally shooting for January and I think it’s slid a little bit, but you never know. It’s still a little too early to tell yet."

As for other characters who might be returning other than Roadblock? That's still very much up in the air...

di Bonaventura: “One thing is for sure: there were some characters the fans were really shouting for us to put in, we’re gonna put in a few one of the ones that they know that would be new to the movie audience if they don’t know the mythology.”

One thing is clear, though, and that the ninja action is only due to be ramepd up to another level, at least if this teaser poster, sent to our pals at Bleeding Cool, is to be believed. It shows the insignia of the Arashikage Clan, of which Storm Shadow and Snake Eyes are members.