by Justin Cook
When computer networks at Sony Pictures were compromised a few weeks ago, not only did it result in many of the studio’s upcoming films to be leaked online, and sensitive emails to be released, but it also revealed plans that the studio has of making a crossover film which would merge two popular franchises: 21 Jump Street and Men in Black.
The possibility of this film was brought up in multiple emails too and from Sony co-chairman Amy Pascal. One email sent to Pascal even revealed that Jonah Hill, star of the 21 Jump Street films, would definitely be on board for the project.
The two successful franchises may seem like a strange pairing. However, a crossover movie between the two makes a surprising amount of sense. For one, although Men in Black 3, the most recent Men in Black film, was very successful — grossing over $600 million worldwide — another standalone film in the franchise would most likely make much less. This is mainly due to the fact that interest in the Men in Black franchise has seemed to lower since the film’s release in 2012.
On top of that, the Jump Street franchise will probably be looking to shake things up with their next film, especially considering how similar in terms of story 22 Jump Street was to 21 Jump Street. Pairing an older franchise like Men in Black with a younger franchise like 21 Jump Street could end up benefiting both.
Colombia Pictures president Hannah Minghella pointed out, “we don’t have a script yet so we’ll be greenlighting the movie off the concept and the talent involved.”
It has not been confirmed yet if Tommy Lee Jones and Will Smith will be appearing in the movie, or frankly if the movie will be happening at all, but if it does it is expected for a 2016 or 2017 release.
Chris Miller and Phil Lord, the directors of 21 and 22 Jump Street, will produce the project and may even return to direct it.
Source: The Wall Street Journal
