Ever since ‘Kingsman: The Golden Circle’ arrived in theaters last year, we’ve been awaiting word on the future of the series. After all, while the box office reception of ‘The Golden Circle’ was every bit as warm as that of the original film, the critical plaudits were somewhat less glowing. While both Matthew Vaughn and comics creator Mark Millar had expressed their intention to complete a trilogy of ‘Kingsman’ films, we were left waiting on the official word. Until now.
Speaking to Empire, Vaughn, who is in the process of expanding is production company Marv Films into a full-blown studion (or, in his words, “the modern version of what a studio can be”) has confirmed that work is underway on further ‘Kingsman’ films (yes, that’s plural) and more, including a cinematic revival of ‘Kick-Ass’.
Let’s start with the ‘Kingsman’ news. Any doubts you might’ve had about the property’s future can now officially be dismissed, as Vaughn confirmed the existence of several ‘Kingsman’ projects that are being developed in tandem. First and foremost is a third “proper” film, which Vaughn says will mark “the conclusion of the Harry Hart-Eggsy relationship.” In addition to this, there will be a number of spinoff projects. The first of these is ‘Kingsman: The Great Game’, which will focus on the organization’s activities at the dawn of the twentieth century. Vaughn also confirmed an eight episode ‘Kingsman’ TV series and finally, a ‘Statesman’ film, which will delve into the world of the American agents introduced in the second film (played by Jeff Bridges, Halle Berry, and Channing Tatum).
And what of ‘Kick-Ass’? That might actually be the more surprising news, given the lukewarm critical and commercial returns of ‘Kick-Ass 2‘. Regardless, Vaughn confirmed cinematic reboots centering on both Kick-Ass and Hit-Girl, suggesting that fans should “Look what Mark Millar is doing with the comic for clues.” Though the director didn’t specify which version of Kick-Ass the new movie would follow, his remarks about looking to the comics strongly suggest that it will focus on the current version. In contrast to teenage loser Dave Lizewski, new Kick-Ass Patience Lee is an African American single mother and veteran of the war in Afghanistan.
Likewise, the ‘Hit-Girl’ film will likely not follow the lead of the eponymous 2012 comic, as much of that material was incorporated into the second ‘Kick-Ass’ film. The most likely options are a prequel (which would obviously require recasting the role) or something drawing on the recently rebooted comic series.
Be sure to check back with ScienceFiction.com for more information on the future of ‘Kingsman’, ‘Kick-Ass’, and any other comic book adaptations by Matthew Vaughn as it becomes available!
