Though Pacific Rim was a bit underwhelming in the U.S, where it grossed $101 million, but found huge overseas numbers, particularly in China, where it grossed $111 million. Those numbers were just enough to garner a sequel, Pacific Rim 2, that will be directed by Steven DeKnight. Currently, the film stars John Boyega and Scott Eastwood, and it’s still not clear if anyone from the first film will be returning. While Charlie Hunnam has said he will not be reprising his role in the sequel, Guillermo del Toro that most of the original cast would return.

With most the major pieces already in place, it was only a matter of time before Legendary would be announcing a start date for the production. Now the production company can say that Pacific Rim 2 will begin lensing this November, and Chinese actress Jing Tian will be joining the cast. More on the story below.