"Constantine 2" Script Delivered: A Sequel 19 Years In The Making

After years of speculation, the highly anticipated sequel to the 2005 film Constantine is one step closer to becoming a reality. Warner Bros. Pictures has confirmed that screenwriter Akiva Goldsman has completed the script for Constantine 2. Producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura, who recently received the final script, revealed his excitement and nerves about diving into it. The sequel will see the return of fan favorites Keanu Reeves as John Constantine and director Francis Lawrence, promising a long-awaited continuation of the dark, supernatural tale.

A Sequel Nearly Two Decades in the Making

Talk of a Constantine sequel has been swirling since the original film's release. Based on DC Comics' Hellblazer series, the 2005 movie introduced audiences to John Constantine, a chain-smoking, trench coat-wearing exorcist and demonologist who navigates a gritty world filled with angels, demons, and supernatural battles. Despite mixed reviews at the time, the film found a dedicated fanbase and grossed $280 million worldwide, cementing its place as a cult classic.

The prospect of a sequel gained significant momentum in 2022 when Warner Bros. officially announced that both Keanu Reeves and Francis Lawrence would return. Fans were thrilled to learn that the sequel would bring back the dynamic actor-director duo that helped establish the film's moody and atmospheric tone. Now, with Akiva Goldsman's script finally complete, the sequel is one step closer to coming to life.

Akiva Goldsman’s Return to the Dark Universe

Akiva Goldsman, known for his work on A Beautiful Mind, I Am Legend, and The Da Vinci Code, was tapped to pen the script for Constantine 2. His attachment to the project brought a renewed sense of optimism among fans, as Goldsman has a knack for balancing character-driven storytelling with supernatural themes. Given his prior work, expectations are high that he will deepen the world of Constantine while staying true to the original’s dark, gritty aesthetic.

Goldsman’s involvement also connects the project to J.J. Abrams, who is set to produce the film. Abrams' inclusion signals Warner Bros.' commitment to elevating the sequel with high-caliber talent behind the scenes, suggesting that Constantine 2 could be even more ambitious than its predecessor.

Producer’s Trepidation: “I’m Too Scared to Read It”

Producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura, who has been closely involved with the project, recently shared his apprehension about reading the final script in an interview with ComicBook.com. He admitted, “You know it’s in my inbox right now. Funny enough, I’m too scared to read it, though. I want it to be good so bad. I probably read it in the next few days. When I get on an airplane.”

His comments reflect the high stakes involved in bringing Constantine 2 to life. The original film’s unique blend of religious mythology, supernatural horror, and noir influences made it stand out in the comic book adaptation landscape, and fans have long hoped the sequel would capture that same magic.

Revisiting the Supernatural World of Constantine

The original Constantine saw Keanu Reeves' character, a deeply flawed anti-hero, entangled in a battle between heaven and hell. In his quest to save his soul, he encounters archangel Gabriel (played by Tilda Swinton), Lucifer (Peter Stormare), and a host of other supernatural beings. The film’s intense atmosphere, visually stunning portrayals of otherworldly entities, and morally ambiguous characters set it apart from typical comic book movies.

Constantine 2 aims to expand on this world, delving deeper into the mystical and often terrifying universe that Goldsman, Reeves, and Lawrence will bring back to the screen. Whether it revisits old characters or introduces new supernatural threats, the sequel promises to build on the legacy of the first film while exploring new narrative ground.

Matt Ryan brought the character of John Constantine to life on the small screen with a portrayal that quickly became iconic among fans of the Hellblazer comics. Debuting in the 2014 NBC series Constantine, Ryan’s performance was lauded for its faithfulness to the comic book source material, capturing Constantine’s sardonic wit, British charm, and morally ambiguous nature. Unlike other adaptations, Ryan’s Constantine stayed true to the character’s classic look—complete with the trademark trench coat, messy blond hair, and ever-present cigarette. Despite the series’ short run, Ryan’s portrayal was so beloved that he reprised the role in various other DC properties, including Arrow, Legends of Tomorrow, and animated adaptations.

What’s Next for Constantine 2?

With the script in hand, the next steps for Constantine 2 involve securing a green light for production and finalizing casting decisions. The involvement of industry heavyweights like Abrams, Goldsman, and di Bonaventura signals that Warner Bros. is committed to delivering a sequel that honors the original while potentially setting up a new chapter for the franchise.

As fans eagerly await more details, the return of Keanu Reeves as the iconic demon-fighting exorcist promises to be a major draw. Given the excitement surrounding Goldsman’s completed script, Constantine 2 is poised to reignite the dark, supernatural intrigue that made the original film a cult favorite nearly two decades ago.

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Source: Dark Horizons

Photo Credit: DC/WB