Back-To-Back ‘Independence Day’ Sequels Will Happen With Or Without Will Smith
By Angie Han/Oct. 27, 2011 10:53 am EST
Whether star Will Smith will be back is another question, but the studio is reportedly prepared to move on without him if necessary. More details after the jump.
Although the plot of the two films have not been revealed, we do know that they’ll function independently of one another, but also tell one combined tale — to steal Vulture’s example, think Back to the Future Parts 2 and 3 instead of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Parts 1 and 2. The idea is to shoot them back to back, which may appeal to Smith as that arrangement would make it easier for him to spend more time with his family.
Smith’s acting career has been slowing down as of late, as he’s increasingly redirected his focus toward his family and his children’s careers. His last movie roles were in 2008’s Hancock and Seven Pounds, and he won’t appear in another film until next year’s Men in Black III. He’s attached to star in M. Night Shyamalan’s One Thousand A.E., but that project is said to be moving “extra-slow”; Smith shouldn’t have too much trouble squeezing in ID2 and ID3 if he decides he wants to do them.
If Smith passes on the project, Hollywood certainly isn’t lacking for established or rising talents who could do a fantastic job leading a sci-fi action movie. But would Independence Day really be the same without him? Moreover, Smith is still considered a huge box-office draw in a way that few stars are these days, despite his hiatus from acting. Would you watch an Independence Day movie without Will Smith?
