Netflix Orders 'Bright' Sequel; Will Smith Confirmed to Return
Netflix's "Bright" is getting another installment, and it is going to feature some of the stars from the original series. Earlier this week, the streaming giant ordered the sequel and announced the return of Will Smith as Ward.
Although Netflix has yet to gauge the audience reaction to the first movie, it looks like the network has faith enough in the franchise to order a sequel. A new report from Bloomberg reveals that Netflix has spent at least $90 million for the first movie, making it one of its major projects in the pipeline.
According to Bloomberg, the first "Bright" movie is the network's first attempt at a big-budget Hollywood production. It brought together some of the biggest movie stars, including Smith and Joel Edgerton, to make up its powerhouse cast. The fantasy, buddy-cop tale was directed by "Suicide Squad" director David Ayer and is set for release this month.
Get Our Latest News for FREE
Bloomberg also noted that considering the budget Netflix has allocated for the franchise, it should serve as a warning shot to studios and theater owners that the streaming giant is targeting a lion's share of the $38.6 billion global box office. Underscoring this commitment is the company's recent announcement of a sequel and the return of Smith as the lead actor.
Based on its synopsis, "Bright" takes place in an alternate reality and follows two cops, Ward (Smith) and Jakoby (Edgerton), as they set out on a routine patrol that might ultimately change the future. Despite their individual differences and the enemies coming their way, the duo is obliged to work and stick with each other to protect a relic that has been missing for long. If they fail, this relic could destroy everything.
Aside from Smith and Edgerton, "Bright" also stars Noomi Rapace, Lucy Fry, Edgar Ramirez, Ike Barinholtz, Enrique Murciano, Jay Hernandez, Andrea Navedo, Veronica Ngo, Alex Meraz, Margaret Cho, Brad William Henke, Dawn Oliveri and Kenneth Choi. The film is set for release on Netflix on Dec. 22.
