Sony Pictures has revealed its massive plans in creating what was described as a Marvel-scale cinematic universe for "Ghostbusters," the dearly loved franchise that revolves around four scientists that band together to eliminate evil otherworldly creatures with weird-looking gizmos.
The studio, which is also involved in the development of a new all-female reboot of the franchise, has revealed that a new string of "Ghostbusters" installments is in the pipeline. However, this time it will have all-male ghoul exterminators. It is hotly rumored that "Magic Mike" actor Channing Tatum will be leading the cast.
Apparently, the production of the second "Ghostbusters" reboot is moving along at an incredible pace. Dan Akroyd, the franchise's co-creator who played Ray Stantz in the original films, along with original "Ghostbusters" director Ivan Reitman will be supervising a group that Sony calls Ghosts unit. The said squad will be taking care of the next "Ghostbusters" flicks in the future.
The male-driven standalone movie will be directed by Joe and Anthony Russo, the helmers who made "Captain America: The Winter Soldier" possible and a global favorite. It really seems that Sony is staying true to its word when it said that the all-male "Ghostbusters" alternative will be Marvel-like. That is why Drew Pearce from "Iron Man 3" will be in charge of the screenplay.
As it turns out, Akroyd has always dreamed to "reinvigorate" the 1989 franchise although he was unsuccessful in having Bill Murray back onboard. During an interview with SiriusXM, it was revealed that he had "three drafts of the old concept" ready.
"And we're going to be able to salvage some of it and use it. Yeah, we're gonna be able to use it someday," Akroyd said. "Let's get this one made and that will reinvigorate the franchise. Then we'll go on to maybe doing a more conventional third sequel as we were planning, and another idea I have for it."
The upcoming all-male "Ghostbusters" movie has yet to get a title but was called by Reitman as a companion to Paul Feig's all-female reboot.
"We want to expand the Ghostbusters universe in ways that will include different films, TV shows, merchandise— all things that are part of modern filmed entertainment. This is a branded entertainment, a scary supernatural premise mixed with comedy," Reitman told Deadline. "Paul Feig's film will be the first version of that ... He's got four of the funniest women in the world, and there will be other surprises to come. The second film has a wonderful idea that builds on that ... It's just the beginning of what I hope will be a lot of wonderful movies."
