Warner Bros. is developing a sequel to an adaptation of Kevin Kwan's novel that has become talk of the town.
- Aug 23, 2018
AceShowbiz - "Crazy Rich Asians" is getting a sequel following its No. 1 debut on North American box office. While it's not officially greenlit, Warner Bros. is already developing a sequel to an adaptation of Kevin Kwan's novel directed by Jon M. Chu.
According to Deadline, the writing will begin soon with screenwriters Peter Chiarelli and Adele Lim returning. Producers Nina Jacobson, Brad Simpson and John Penotti are eyed to return, with Chu planning to return as director as well.
Actors Constance Wu, Henry Golding and Michelle Yeoh have options for the sequel, though deals have not been set yet. WB will assess a full greenlight once the script is completed.
It's a no-brainer move for the studio after the romantic comedy movie became a box office hit, opening to $26.5 million in its first weekend, beating industry expectations. It posted the biggest debut for a romantic comedy since Amy Schumer's 2015 movie "Trainwreck", which grossed $30.1 million in its opening weekend.
The movie, which has a predominantly Asian cast, has also received praises from critics, who praised the performances (particularly Wu, Awkwafina and Yeoh) and production design. It holds an approval rating of 93% based on 164 reviews, with an average rating of 7.7/10 on Rotten Tomatoes.
Producer Nina Jacobson previously said that a sequel would be up to audience's response. "Let the audience ask for the sequel," she told Deadline over the weekend, "We'd love to make one, but not unless the audience asks for it, and hopefully they will this weekend."
John Penotti also hinted at the intention to make a follow-up to the movie, telling EW after the movie's debut, "It's our complete intention to do it. I think the audience response this weekend is extremely heartening... I think this weekend has given us terrific momentum to see more 'Crazy Rich Asians' in the world."
"Crazy Rich Asians" follows Rachel Chu (Wu), an American-born Chinese economics professor, who travels to her boyfriend's hometown of Singapore for a wedding, and is surprised when she discovers they are among the richest in the country. There, she is thrust into an obstacle course of old money, new money, nosy relatives and her boyfriend's strong-willed mother.
