It’s been over two years since the last major update regarding the status of Enchanted 2, the potential sequel to 2007’s Amy Adams-led fantasy musical Enchanted, but reportedly the project is far from dead. According to a recent report from THR, after being in development for years, Disney is finally taking big steps forward with the sequel and moving fast.
Adam Shankman, whose work on such films as Hairspray and Rock of Ages makes him no stranger to characters spontaneously breaking out into song and dance, is in negotiations to direct the sequel. Additionally, the film’s official title is now Disenchanted and will likely feature the return of Adams as Princess Giselle.
Whether or not other cast members, including Patrick Dempsey, James Marsden and Timothy Spall, will reprise their roles from the original is still unknown, but it shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise if at least a couple make appearances.
Disenchanted takes place 10 years after the events of Enchanted, “with Giselle finding herself questioning her happily-ever-after life and accidentally triggering events that make everyone’s lives turn upside down in both the real world and in the animated kingdom of Andalasia.”
If all goes well, the movie is expected to commence filming next summer, which would set it up for a 2018 release.
2007’s Enchanted earned rave reviews from critics upon its release, with many praising it for its unique twist on the typical Disney princess story; it also brought in a sizeable amount of cash at the box office, quadrupling its budget in returns.
The real test for Disenchanted and its potential for success will come down to two factors: if those who saw the original in theaters nearly a decade ago have any interest in seeing a sequel and if the film’s promotional materials appeal to a new generation of children, who are most likely unfamiliar with the original.