What began as an important horror film (although quirky) a few killer robotic doll has was a full-blown cinematic phenomenon. With the upcoming M3GAN 2.0 set for the 2025 film schedule, a by-product movie SOULM8TE dropping the next yr, star and producer Allison Williams is teasing some bold strikes for the rising M3GAN Cinematic Universe (MCU). However in a latest interview, the previous Ladies star dropped a chilling query in regards to the franchises that has me asking my very own questions.
May we truly see a cross-franchise A.I. showdown in upcoming Blumhouse films? Williams and director Gerard Johnstone not too long ago spoke to Leisure Weekly, and although they’re preserving particulars about M3GAN 2.0 locked tighter than an encrypted server, their feedback have sparked my creativeness. The sequel goals to construct on the sudden magic of the unique whereas taking the story to new heights, however what would an Avengers-level menace appear like for the sentient dolls? The actress-turned-producer weighed in:
I’m terrified to think about what that will imply. What’s the Thanos equal? Let’s simply preserve going so long as they’re attention-grabbing and every one has its personal story to inform.
The thought of a full-scale “Avengers-style” occasion for the M3GAN Cinematic Universe would possibly sound absurd however, contemplating the runaway success of the unique, it’s not out of the query. The interconnected upcoming horror films intend to develop the scope whereas staying true to the quirks that made the unique so beloved, which, like Williams, I imagine is essential to preserving the films attention-grabbing.
For Johnstone, brainstorming for sequels has at all times concerned a playful mixture of creativity and humor. The director added:
Simply jokingly, each time the producers requested me what I take into consideration a sequel, I’ve at all times mentioned M3GAN 3000. M3GAN in a Mad Max universe. I might completely line as much as see that.
A Mad Max-style dystopia or maybe–extra fittingly–a Terminator future appears like a pure conclusion for a franchise about killer A.I. However is that the path we wish to see once more? Personally, I believe a extra compelling route can be for M3GAN to tug a T2: Judgment Day. Think about if she developed past her villainous beginnings, gained a contact of humanity, and have become a protector of types. That shift may open up fascinating storytelling prospects, even setting the stage for this teased “Thanos-level menace” within the increasing fictional universe.
Talking of the MCU—no, not that MCU. That can get too complicated—perhaps we must always name it the M3U (M3GAN Universe) or M3NX (M3GAN Nexus). There you go, Allison Williams and Gerard Johnstone, that suggestion is on the home! Now, again to the purpose: because the universe grows, Johnstone is acutely aware of the legacy being constructed, and he mirrored on its broader implications:
It is clearly vastly flattering and satisfying to be concerned with one thing that might spawn its personal little universe. Common Footage had its personal universe with all of its monster film characters, so it is not unparalleled. It is in all probability additionally the truth that we live in an age the place A.I. is so prevalent. There are such a lot of tales to be informed.
The idea is ripe for exploration of well timed themes whereas carving out a singular identification. The chances for the place this horror franchise–I nonetheless assume M3NX is the best way to go–may really feel limitless—and a protector-turned-hero M3GAN who has to crew up with others or struggle off fellow A.I. beings? Now, that’s a narrative I’d be excited for.
2025 shall be an enormous yr for horror franchises, and the most effective scary dolls returns to the massive display when M3GAN 2.0 hits theaters on June 25 amid the 2025 film schedule.