'Hansel and Gretel: Witch Hunters' cast news: Jeremy Renner takes on sequel
News about the upcoming sequel for "Hansel and Gretel" has been released.
It was reported that the upcoming sequel will be titled "Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters." It is expected to be an action-horror film starring Jeremy Renner and Gemma Arterton as witch exterminators. The story is based on the famous German fairy tale.
There is confirmation that the movie will be moving forward, as it was announced that Bruno Aveillan will be directing the project. Steven Ilous is also expected to join the team, sharing his expertise on visual effects backgrounds. He stated, "In 2015, I was sent the latest draft of the sequel to HANSEL AND GRETEL: WITCH HUNTERS for consideration to direct. Here at glance is a small look into my director presentation which consisted of original character designs, key art, storyboards, animatics, and a maquette. I had such a great time working with closely with Vincent Van Dyke from VVDFX, Bryan Wynia, Darek Zabrocki, Jonathan Gesinski, and the academy nominated Mike Elizalde from Spectral Motion. It was a great honor to be considered for this film."
There have been speculations regarding the film's plot. Leaked artworks by Vincent Van Dyke revealed a title card that stated "Hansel & Gretel: Death's Messenger" and an image of a crowded city with a waterway. It also included a photo of the film's possible villain named High Priestess.
The previous movie did not reach the box office, but earned around $200 million from theaters worldwide. The director of the first film, Tommy Wirkola, left the project but recently shared his sentiments in an interview with Fangoria. He said, "I've just decided to not direct 'Hansel and Gretel 2.' I have been lately attached to a few more things, it's just a matter of time and priorities ... I did write the script and I hope to be involved in it. But yeah, I won't be directing it."
Hansel and Gretel: Witch Hunters is expected to release in 2016.