'Pacific Rim 2' Update, News: Del Toro Hands in Script, Budget; Will It Be Enough to Save Movie?
Guillermo del Toro has announced that he has submitted the script and budget for the upcoming "Pacific Rim 2."
Del Toro, of course, faces a steep battle to get the film made after there were reports earlier this year that the movie had been postponed or cancelled altogether.
There is a growing weariness in Hollywood over taking risks with big budget films unless there is some certainty that a box office hit will follow. The result has been the reboot of successful franchises of the past such as "Jurassic Park" and "Star Wars." "Jurassic World" in particular did not help matters for original filmmakers as the film performed admirably using nostalgia to its advantage.
It is an advantage that Del Toro unfortunately has no ability to use.
The first "Pacific Rim" was a success in niche groups but was far from the runaway success many anticipated. The film, which reportedly cost $190 million, only brought in $101 million in the U.S. and $411 million worldwide. It is certainly possible that those writing the check are unsure whether the film will be profitable enough to warrant the investment.
Del Toro has another sequel in the postponement bin -- "Hellboy 3," which is set to conclude the trilogy based on the comic book hero. However, the film is stuck in limbo precisely because studio executives do not seem particularly keen on risking money. The sequel "Hellboy 2: The Golden Army" was not a box office success by any standard.
Del Toro's recent "Crimson Peak" has also struggled mightily, making just $50 million worldwide on a $55 million budget; the film is currently heading toward its third weekend after release.