As previously reported, "Hansel and Gretel: Witch Hunters" is getting a sequel. Steven Ilous, one of the contenders to direct the second film, revealed on his official website some pre-production work that may give insight into the film's plot and final title.
On Ilous' official site are several pre-production artwork that reveal Hansel and Gretel battling undead enemies. The location also appears to be set in Italy or in France. There is also a piece for a character titled the "High Priestess," which suggests the protagonists may be fighting a cult of witches.
According to a report from Screen Rant, Tommy Wirkola, the director of the first film, had already submitted a finished script for the sequel; therefore, these pre-production pieces are most likely based on that screenplay. This indicates that the plot hinted at within these pieces may find their way to the finished film.
The very first piece also reveals the supposed title for the movie which reads: "Hansel and Gretel: Death's Messengers." This fits in thematically with the plot of the two siblings using their skills to fight an undead army. If true, then the "High Priestess" may be a necromancer or a witch that brings back the dead.
Ilous and other directors competed for the open chair when Wirkola announced he was only writing the script and not returning to direct. In the end, newcomer Bruno Aveillan has been given the task to direct the film. He has a strong background in directing brand commercials.
"Hansel and Gretel: Witch Hunters 2" does not have a scheduled release date and neither Jeremy Renner nor Gemma Arteton are confirmed to reprise their roles as the titular heroes. With a director attached and a screenplay already finished, it is likely that production for the sequel will be fast-tracked to work around Renner's busy schedule.
