After raking in almost $630 million worldwide, it was highly expected that Kung Fu Panda would offer up at least one sequel. DreamWorks SKG has announced that they will do just that, beginning production in 2009 and aiming at a June 3, 2011 release date.
Returning are Jack Black and Angelina Jolie among other voice cast members. The only big difference is the director; taking over the helm will be Jennifer Yuh Nelson, who worked the head of story/story artist on the first film. Her only directing experience so far was on the 1997 Spawn TV series. No word on if the original writers will be working on the project, but I’m assuming they will be.
The sequel’s story description is pretty vague. Apparently Po will be continuing his journey as the chosen one and mastering his kung-fu skills. This is either because they have no story yet, or they’re just going to re-make their first movie!
This announcement comes right after DreamWorks unveiled their DVD release for Kung Fu Panda, which included a large amount of special features and a short companion movie. They’re certainly putting forth the effort to try and get their panda right up there with Shrek in terms of popularity.
“After raking in almost $630 million worldwide, it was highly expected that Kung Fu Panda would offer up at least one sequel. DreamWorks SKG has announced that they will do just that, beginning production in 2009 and aiming at a ‘June 3, 2001′ release date”
^^^^ Unless DreamWorks gets a Time Machine, it’s going to be VERY hard for them to meet that ‘2001′ release date deadline.
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