After two decades of anticipation, fans of the 2005 film “Constantine” can rejoice as a sequel is officially in development, with Keanu Reeves set to reprise his role as the enigmatic exorcist and demonologist, John Constantine. The original film, directed by Francis Lawrence, garnered a substantial cult following despite mixed critical reviews, grossing over $230 million worldwide.
In a recent interview, both Reeves and Lawrence expressed their enthusiasm for the upcoming project. Lawrence revealed that the sequel has received approval, with Akiva Goldsman penning the script. The trio—Reeves, Lawrence, and Goldsman—have been collaborating closely, brainstorming ideas to expand upon the dark, supernatural themes of the original. Lawrence noted, “We have some really, really great ideas that we’re super, super excited about.”
The journey to this point has been marked by persistent efforts from the team. Reeves, in particular, has been vocal about his desire to return to the role. He humorously recounted his repeated requests to Warner Bros., stating, “I kept asking almost every year. I’d be like, ‘Can I please?’ [and] they’d be like, ‘No, no!'” This persistence, combined with the original film’s growing cult status, eventually led to the project’s greenlight.
Producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura has also shared insights into the sequel’s development. He confirmed that the script is complete but admitted to being apprehensive about reading it due to high expectations. Di Bonaventura remarked, “I’m too scared to read it… I want it to be good so bad.”
The sequel aims to delve deeper into the dark and violent aspects of the “Constantine” universe. Lawrence has expressed a desire to make the film R-rated, allowing for a more intense and authentic portrayal of the source material. This approach aligns with the team’s commitment to delivering a sequel that resonates with both longtime fans and new audiences.
While specific plot details remain under wraps, the collaborative efforts of Reeves, Lawrence, and Goldsman suggest a promising continuation of John Constantine’s story. The film is expected to exist outside the main DC Universe continuity, potentially falling under the “Elseworlds” label, which accommodates standalone stories like “Joker” and “The Batman.”
As development progresses, fans eagerly await further updates on casting, storyline, and a potential release date. The reunion of the original creative team, combined with their shared passion for the character, bodes well for a sequel that honors the legacy of the original while exploring new narrative horizons.
