Looks like DUMB AND DUMBER TO may have proven that sequels can still work decades after the original as ZOOLANDER 2 is finally moving forward. Will Ferrell just recently mentioned a read through for the script was happening but now we have our first bit of casting news.
Deadline reports that Penelope Cruz will join ZOOLANDER 2 as the female lead opposite Ben Stiller. Stiller will relinquish directing duties to his TROPIC THUNDER co-writer Justin Theroux. Will Ferrell will return as villain Mugatu as will Owen Wilson as Hansel. There is no word on the plot of ZOOLANDER 2, but being made thirteen years after the first film I am sure there will be age-related jokes.
ZOOLANDER was a surprise hit based on Ben Stiller‘s character developed for a series of VH1 shorts. The film went on to gross $60 million on a $28 million budget but has become a cult classic on DVD. With tons of cameos, ZOOLANDER 2 will likely follow the same footsteps as the first film, but the question is whether it can succeed with such a long gap between the films. Yes, DUMB AND DUMBER TO was successful at the box office, but many criticized the lack of original jokes. With Stiller behind the script and Theroux directing, I have high expectations for this sequel.
ZOOLANDER 2 has no release date, but expect it in 2015 at the earliest.