Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures and Warner Bros. have announced long awaited news for fans of the ‘Stargate’ franchise! Roland Emmerich and Dean Devlin are officially gearing up to once again to dial the gate and walk through our beloved “chapa’ai!”

The word is that, at least initially, the ‘Stargate’ reboot will be a “re-imagined” trilogy. Greg Silverman, President, Creative Development and Worldwide Production said:

“’Stargate’ created an expansive cinematic universe that has engaged fans for two decades. Under the guidance of Roland and Dean, these new films will build upon the creativity and popularity of the first film, while delivering an original film-going experience for fans and those new to the franchise.”

This is great news to aficionados of the franchise and gives us hope that we will see a story we all know and love. A “re-imagining” makes me a bit uneasy, but it sounds like they are trying to stay fairly close to canon — which falls under the “if it isn’t broke, don’t fix it” axiom. Emmerich will be directing the first of the trilogy. It is unknown if he will also direct the other two. As for Devlin, he’s onboard to produce. The two are also working on ‘Independence Day 2,’ the sequel to the 1996 Will Smith summer blockbuster.

In a statement released to the press, Emmerich and Devlin stated:

“The Stargate universe is one that we missed terribly, and we cannot wait to get going on imagining new adventures and situations for the trilogy. This story is very close to our hearts, and getting the chance to revisit this world is in many ways like a long lost child that has found its way back home.”

Gary Barber, MGM’s Chairman and CEO added:

“We couldn’t be more excited to once again partner with Roland and Dean, the world-class creators of the original ‘Stargate,’ to bring their reinvigorated vision of this wildly popular property to audiences of multiple generations. ’Stargate’ is one of the biggest titles in MGM’s vast library, and we look forward to adding this great franchise to our slate.”

Jonathan Glickman shared Barber’s excitement about the project:

“For us at MGM, there was no version of us further developing the ‘Stargate’ franchise without Roland and Dean at the creative helm. This is their baby, and we cannot wait to bring their re-energized universe to the legions of fans around the world.”

The statement bodes well for fans as I’m certain they do not wish to completely destroy what is obviously a coveted entertainment “cash cow.”

The original 1994 ‘Stargate’ film which starred Kurt Russell, James Spader, Jaye Davidson, and Alexis Cruz cleared over $200 million at the box office. The film gave birth to the phenomenon that became ‘Stargate: SG-1,’ a television series so popular it boasts an incredible 10 seasons, and two spin-offs (‘Stargate: Atlantis and ‘Stargate: Universe’). I’m certain fans will be crossing their collective fingers for this to happen once again.

There was also ‘Stargate: The Ark of Truth’ and ‘Continuum’ that were released direct-to-DVD. In 2002 the franchise’s first animated series, ‘Stargate Infinity’ aired.

And now, finally a reboot, starting with three “re-imagined” films! There is no word on what direction they plan to take, if they plan on diverting greatly from what we are familiar with or stay faithful to the sprawling story we fell in love with.

There is also no word of returning cast members, or at the very least cameo appearances throughout the films. But I can tell you one character I’d be on board to see once again:

Amanda Tapping from ‘Stargate: SG-1’ would be a welcome returning character!
Photo credit: s_bukley / Shutterstock.com

The entire concept of the ‘Stargate’ story is really quite brilliant and lends itself to an untold wealth of possible directions without the fear of becoming stale. Talented writers will ensure the long life of the gate and the rabid fans will ensure that it remains profitable.

Will this reboot venture back into television? That, my Faithful Followers, remains to be seen. But we can only hope and see the films at least several dozen times each.

Check back with us daily for updates, news, and possible giddy rants and sudden squeals of joy. As soon as we hear more, you will too, right here at ScienceFiction.com!