Barbie’s Success Might Have Shelved Free Guy 2
In an unexpected twist, the iconic doll, Barbie, has potentially influenced the fate of a sequel to 2021’s hit comedy, “Free Guy.” Shawn Levy, the director, opened up about the second chapter’s uncertain future in light of Barbie’s success, despite having a nearly complete script in hand by 2022.
Ryan Reynolds, well-known for his lead role as Guy, played an online video game character who discovers his true identity in a fictional world. A parallel narrative emerges in Greta Gerwig’s Barbie, where the popular Mattel doll, portrayed by Margot Robbie, steps out from Barbieland’s comforts into reality, setting out on a journey to find her purpose.
Levy disclosed to Collider the apprehensions he and Reynolds share about the sequel in light of Barbie’s resonance with similar themes. He mentioned:
“I think it is definitely not assured. We love Free Guy and the love for Free Guy that has kind of resonated in aftershocks, if you will, in the last couple of years. That’s been thrilling to Ryan [Reynolds] and I. We are developing a sequel, but the truth is that you now have Barbie that has obviously left a mark about a character in a fictional world who comes to self-awareness. So, we’re only gonna make Free Guy 2 if it’s different than the first movie and if it’s different from other movies.”
Barbie’s Ripple Effect on Cinema
The cinematic world has been abuzz with the repercussions of Barbie’s acclaim. This isn’t merely restricted to Free Guy 2’s evolution. The industry is now in a race to recreate Barbie’s success formula. This led to the rise of the term “Barbenheimer,” which originates from the simultaneous release of Barbie and Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer.”
While Mattel seems eager to capitalize on Barbie’s box office hit by translating other toys to the big screen, not everyone’s on board. Randall Park of WandaVision fame has been one among many commentators who feel the industry might be missing the genuine lessons from Barbie’s success story.
Levy and Reynolds: Respecting the Original
Amidst the whirlwind of opinions and pressures, Levy and Reynolds have showcased a unique approach. They prioritize the integrity of the original story over the temptation to cash in on its success. Reflecting on Free Guy’s finale, which saw Guy find harmony in a new game setting, there’s a deliberate desire to not overextend the narrative merely for financial gains.
Levy reiterated:
“So, we’re only gonna make Free Guy 2 if it’s different than the first movie and if it’s different from other movies.”
The Future Beyond Free Guy
Although the path for Free Guy 2 remains uncertain, both Levy and Reynolds are far from idling. Levy’s directorial touches are expected in projects like an undisclosed Star Wars film and the concluding season of Stranger Things. The silver lining for fans? Levy hasn’t dismissed the possibility of returning to Free Guy’s universe if a compelling idea emerges.
