Hold on to your hats, 'Mummy' fans! After years of waiting, Brendan Fraser has finally confirmed what we've all been dreaming of: 'The Mummy 4' is officially happening, and he promises it's going to deliver everything we've been craving! According to a recent interview with the Associated Press, Fraser has been patiently waiting for two decades to make the 'Mummy' movie he always envisioned.
Variety confirmed earlier this month that Universal Pictures is indeed developing a new installment, with Fraser reprising his iconic role and Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett (the filmmaking duo known as Radio Silence, who revitalized the 'Scream' franchise) directing.
Fraser reflected on the previous films, stating, "The one I wanted to make was never made." He acknowledged the challenges of 'The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor,' the third film in the series. "NBC had the rights to broadcast the Olympics that year," Fraser explained, implying that the film's production was somewhat influenced by this tie-in. "So they put two together and we went to China. Working in Shanghai, an incredible experience. I’m proud of the third one because I think it’s a good standalone movie... But the one I wanted to make is forthcoming. And I’ve been waiting 20 years for this call. Sometimes it was loud, sometimes it was a faint telegraph. Now? It’s time to give the fans what they want."
Radio Silence, the directorial team behind modern horror hits like 'Ready or Not' and the recent 'Scream' revival, brings a fresh perspective to the franchise. But here's where it gets even better: Rachel Weisz, who captivated audiences as Evelyn Carnahan in the first two 'Mummy' films, is also set to return! Her absence was definitely felt in 'Tomb of the Dragon Emperor,' so her return is a major win for fans.
Remember the 2017 'Mummy' reboot starring Tom Cruise? Universal attempted to relaunch the franchise without Fraser, but it didn't quite resonate with audiences or critics. And this is the part most people miss... Fraser himself had some pointed thoughts on why that film didn't succeed.
"It is hard to make that movie," Fraser told Variety. "The ingredient that we had going for our Mummy, which I didn’t see in that film, was fun. That was what was lacking in [Tom Cruise’s] incarnation. It was too much of a straight-ahead horror movie. ‘The Mummy’ should be a thrill ride, but not terrifying and scary." He pinpointed the lack of lightheartedness and adventure as a key difference between his films and the reboot.
But here's where it gets controversial... Some might argue that a darker, more horror-focused 'Mummy' could be successful, catering to a different audience. What do you think? Should 'The Mummy' stick to its adventurous roots, or is there room for a scarier take on the classic monster?
Universal has yet to announce a release date for 'The Mummy 4,' leaving us all eagerly awaiting more news. But with Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz back on board, and a promising directorial team at the helm, it seems like we're finally getting the 'Mummy' movie we've been waiting for.
What are your hopes for 'The Mummy 4'? Are you excited about the return of Fraser and Weisz? Do you think the franchise should stick to its lighthearted tone, or should it embrace a darker, more horror-oriented approach? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
