Yesterday we reported that the long gestating sequel to Roland Emmerich’s 1996 Independence Day had hired a new writer ahead of its 2016 release, but today brings the news that one of his other 90s sci-fi efforts is getting the reboot treatment. MGM and Warner Bros have anounced a new trilogy of feature movies that will re-imagine Stargate for a new generation. Not only that, but Emmerich will return to the director’s chair and Dean Devlin will once again produce.
“We couldn’t be more excited to once again partner with Roland and Dean, the world-class creators of the original Stargate, to bring their reinvigorated vision of this wildly popular property to audiences of multiple generations,” said MGM Chairman Gary Barber. “Stargate is one of the biggest titles in MGM’s vast library, and we look forward to adding this great franchise to our slate.”
Emmerich added, “The Stargate universe is one that we missed terribly, and we cannot wait to get going on imagining new adventures and situations for the trilogy. This story is very close to our hearts, and getting the chance to revisit this world is in many ways like a long lost child that has found its way back home.”
However, fans of the spin-off Stargate shows might be disappointed to hear that, like Star Wars, they will be ignoring all iterations except for the original movie, “Stargate created an expansive cinematic universe that has engaged fans for two decades, said Greg Silverman (President of Creative Development at MGM). “Under the guidance of Roland and Dean, these new films will build upon the creativity and popularity of the first film, while delivering an original film-going experience for fans and those new to the franchise.”
The original Stargate earned $200 million dollars in 1994 and created several direct-to-DVD sequels and three spin-off TV shows.
What do you think about a new Stargate trilogy of movies? Are you sad to hear they won’t be taking all the spin-offs into cannon?