- Constantine 2 generates excitement with Keanu Reeves reprising his role
- Elseworlds strategy demands exceptional storytelling for projects like Constantine 2
- If Constantine 2 meets Elseworlds standards, it has potential to be a cinematic masterpiece
As Keanu Reeves is set to return in Constantine 2, the film world is abuzz with high expectations for the sequel, especially in light of recent comments from James Gunn about DC’s multiverse.
Back in 2005, Reeves first appeared as the mysterious demonologist John Constantine, before Marvel and DC brought their extended universes to the screen. Amid the silence regarding a sequel, 2022 rekindled fans’ hopes as updates about Constantine 2 began to emerge. This anticipation is not only due to the original film but also because of Matt Ryan’s portrayal of a comic-aligned Constantine in the Arrowverse and DC animated films. Additionally, J.J. Abrams teased the possibility of a new Constantine series for Max.
It is expected that Francis Lawrence, the director of the original Constantine, will helm the sequel, with Titans co-creator Akiva Goldsman writing the script. Reeves has had active discussions with Gunn about the sequel, and Goldsman stated that the main narrative arc is already outlined.
As DC heavily invests in Gunn’s shared DC Universe, projects like Constantine 2 could risk being overshadowed. However, DC Studios is still interested in solo ventures like this film. Collider has emphasized Gunn’s focus on the distinction of the Elseworlds label, stating that the qualitative expectations will surpass those for the primary DC Universe.
For Elseworlds projects, Gunn demands nothing less than excellence. This presents an imposing challenge for Constantine 2, pushing it to be more than just a sequel. However, if the film manages to meet these stringent standards, it could be a cinematic masterpiece.
In the past, DC’s Elseworlds has produced critically acclaimed films like Joker, and upcoming releases include Joker: Folie à Deux. With Matt Reeves’ projects such as The Batman – Part II and Max’s The Penguin, the bar for quality and innovation has been set high.
For Constantine 2 to succeed, it must not only uphold the legacy of its predecessor but surpass it. If it meets the high standards set by DC’s Elseworlds label, it could become one of the studio’s most riveting offerings in the foreseeable future.