EDIT: Since this morning, the rumors of the supposed sequel have been brought into question by multiple people, including ESPN writer Brian Windhorst. Sources are saying that Space Jam 2 may be happening but LeBron James is not attached. What a headache. I just want cartoons playing sports with tall men, is that so much to ask?
Space Jam is a 1996 family film starring Michael Jordan (as Michael Jordan) who gets talked into helping the Looney Tunes play a game of basketball against baddie aliens, all in time to a pretty killer soundtrack. Oh, and Bill Murray shows up for some reason. Nothing about this movie says sequel and yet somehow, eighteen years later, basketball player LeBron James is in talks with Warner Bros. to star in a sequel, tentatively referred to as Space Jam 2.
The news has been spotty thus far, with Charlie and Willie Ebersol supposedly attached to write and produce. The question I’ve got is: Why now? The 90’s film relied on the huge star power of Michael Jordan and its Looney Tunes, both of which were still relevant at the time. Nowadays, I question their ability to appeal to a wide audience of kids who prefer video games and contemporary animation.
The 90’s kid in me wants to be excited but I will remain cautiously curious for the time being.