Cruella 2 is happening — Here's what we know

Cruella 2 is happening — Here's what we know

Since Cruella's huge success following its theatrical release and Disney Plus premiere, many have speculated about a possible sequel to the fashionable villain's origin story.

According to Deadline, "Cruella 2" (title TBD) is in the works, and both Craig Gillespie (director) and Tony McNamara (writer) are reportedly returning to co-produce the sequel. Cruella has already received excellent reviews from various critical reviewers, with a score of 97% on Rotten Tomatoes. In fact, a Disney spokesperson revealed that Cruella is currently "one of the most popular" of Disney's live-action re-imaginings. [If you're curious about the rumored sequel featuring a fur-loving fashionista, keep reading. Of course, there are spoilers.

Let's begin with an analysis of the film itself. Cruella had an interesting plot and undoubtedly great costumes. But how successful was it really?

According to figures gathered over the Memorial Day weekend, the film grossed $26.5 million at the box office, and according to Samba TV, Cruella was viewed by over 686,000 US households through the Disney Plus paid premium access feature.

"We are extremely pleased with the box office success of 'Cruella' and the strong performance of Disney Plus Premier Access to date. We look forward to audiences continuing to enjoy this great film and its long run," Disney said.

It is easy to see why so many fell in love with Emma Stone's performance as a 1970s punk fashion designer. Oppressed by society and by the baroness (played by Emma Thompson), Estella was a young girl with big dreams of making it in the fashion world. Her contagious personality and unfortunate upbringing make it incredibly easy to empathize with her (she then becomes an evil, fur-obsessed monster, but let's ignore that for a moment). Then add in the inner conflict, stunning visuals, and gorgeous costumes, and you have a successful film.

Now, how on earth will Disney manage to make this movie an equally (if not more) successful sequel? First, the cast: according to an interview with Rotten Tomatoes, both Emma Stone and Emma Thompson are open to returning for the sequel.

The interview also suggests that "Cruella 2" could work as both a prequel and a sequel by going back and forth between different eras, as in "The Godfather Part II." With Cruella laying the groundwork for Disney's villainous backstory, the character played by Emma Stone may take on more of a crime boss role in the next film.

In a post-credits scene, Cruella presents Dalmatians Pongo and Perdita to Roger and Anita, tying the film to the original "101 Doggies" story. However, this did not answer the question of whether this film adaptation would follow the same storyline. After all, why would someone gift a puppy and then steal it back? But it remains to be seen whether a sequel will tie the two stories together.

When Disney makes the sequel official and more details emerge, we will keep you updated on casting, plot, trailers, etc.

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