Even though the Tommy Wirkola (Dead Snow) helmed action/horror hybrid Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters (review here) was only a modest success here in the U.S., it made its bank in the overseas market to the tune of $205 million so far, not bad for a film that cost approximately $ 50 million to produce. Those numbers open the door for a sequel from Paramount, and it was confirmed today they are moving ahead with a sequel.
Deadline is reporting, The news comes the same day the revisionist fairy tale starring Jeremy Renner and Gemma Arterton crossed $200 million at the global box office. That’s a significant milestone and key to the decision to go ahead with a sequel that is now officially in development. Paramount said the film cost $50M but other estimates put the budget at $83M — but either way it was an underperformer in the U.S.
Paramount, MGM and MTV Films were behind the first pic, from Gary Sanchez Productions, whose principals Will Ferrell, Adam McKay and Kevin Messick are expected to return as producers for the second go-round as is Beau Flynn. Tommy Wirkola wrote and directed the first movie, which after this weekend has grossed $205.8M worldwide.
