News from Deadline today as the trade reveals that Dwayne Johnson is working on a brand new Scorpion King movie. Johnson, who originated the character in The Mummy Returns, is working with original studio, Universal Pictures, on the reboot.
According to the report Johnson is working with Dany Garcia’s Seven Bucks Productions and the team has tapped Jonathan Herman to pen the script. Johnson and Garcia will produce along with Seven Bucks’ Hiram Garcia.
Given that Johnson is currently fully booked through 2022, hello Black Adam, the studio is currently looking at options for a new actor to take on the role.
2002’s The Scorpion King followed a desert warrior that rises up against the evil army that is destroying his homeland. Plot details are vague on what this reboot will do differently then the original, but sources do say that unlike the original, this one will be a contemporary take set in modern times. It would go on to generate a staggering four sequels although Johnson does not appear.
“The Scorpion King was my very first role ever on the silver screen and I’m honored and excited to reimagine and deliver this cool mythology to a whole new generation,” said Johnson. “I wouldn’t have had the career I’m lucky enough to have had it not been for The Scorpion King and I’m thrilled that we at Seven Bucks Productions can help create those same opportunities for other hardworking actors today. I believe Jonathan Herman will put in the hard work to deliver a fantastic script for our global audience.”
Universal’s Senior VP Production Jay Polidoro and creative executive Tony Ducret will oversee the project on behalf of the studio.
“The original Scorpion King was a crucial catalyst helping to catapult us into the world of film,” said Dany Garcia. “To be able to now produce the next iteration as part of our Seven Bucks Productions slate is a special, full-circle moment, a testament to what we have been fortunate enough to build for our audience and ultimately a humble reminder of the timeless value of authentic storytelling.”
Watch this space for more news on The Scorpion King‘s return!
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