‘Crazy Rich Asians’ Director Jon M. Chu To Helm Lucasfilm’s ‘Willow’ Series For Disney+
Christian Hubbard
Posted On October 20, 2020
After more than 30 years, it appears fans of the classic film Willow will finally be able to return to the fantasy world. On Tuesday, Lucasfilm and Disney officially announced that a Willow sequel series is in the works at Disney+ with some exciting names coming aboard to bring it to life.
Crazy Rich Asians director Jon M. Chu will board the project to helm its pilot. Additionally, Chu will serve as one of the show’s executive producers along with confirmed showrunners Jonathan Kasdan (Solo) and Wendy Mericle (Arrow). Moreover, Kasdan wrote the screenplay for the pilot episode. The film’s original director, Ron Howard, will serve as an executive producer for the series as well. Additionally, the film’s original star Warwick Davis will reprise his role in the series. The story will take place 30 years following the events of the original film.
“Growing up in the’80s, Willow has had a profound effect on me,” said Chu. “The story of the bravest heroes in the least likely places allowed me, an Asian-American kid growing up in a Chinese restaurant looking to go to Hollywood, to believe in the power of our own will, determination and of course, inner magic. So the fact that I get to work with my heroes from Kathleen Kennedy to Ron Howard is bigger than a dream come true. It’s a bucket list moment for me. Jon Kasdan and Wendy Mericle have added such groundbreaking new characters and delightful surprises to this timeless story that I can’t wait for the world to come along on this epic journey with us.”
READ: Pixar’s ‘Soul’ To Premiere On Disney+ On Christmas Day
Willow is a 1988 American dark fantasy drama. The movie, directed by the aforementioned Ron Howard, was written by Star Wars creator George Lucas and Bob Dolman (How to Eat Fried Worms). The film follows Willow, a reluctant farmer (Warwick Davis) who plays a critical role in protecting a baby from a tyrannical queen who vows to take over the world. In addition to Davis, the cast also includes Val Kilmer, Joanne Whalley, Jean Marsh, and Billy Barty. The feature grossed $137.6 million worldwide and earned two Academy Award nominations.
Up next for Jon M. Chu is the movie adaptation of Lin-Manuel Miranda‘s In The Heights. The filmmaker also directs and produces episodes of Freeform’s Good Trouble and Apple TV‘s Home Before Dark.
What do you think of the news? Are you excited about the continuation of the Willow franchise? Let us know your thought below!
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