Producer David Ellison recently shared exciting news about the future of World War Z, specifically discussing the potential revival of a long-awaited sequel. During a recent media event, he detailed the strategic film priorities of Paramount Skydance while emphasizing the importance of other significant franchises that will influence the studio’s upcoming lineup.
The Likelihood of World War Z 2 Featuring Brad Pitt Increases Significantly
This promising update emerged as David Ellison outlined the studio’s priorities in the wake of the substantial $8 billion merger between Paramount and Skydance (as reported by ComicBook). Ellison identified Top Gun 3, Star Trek, and World War Z as pivotal projects within the studio’s portfolio. Paramount Skydance aims to release 15 films annually, with plans to escalate this number to 20, emphasizing a commitment to theatrical exclusivity.
The original World War Z, adapted from Max Brooks’ 2006 novel, achieved remarkable success, grossing $540 million globally. However, its total cost, estimated at $430 million, accounted for production and advertising expenses, along with Brad Pitt‘s involvement. This film holds the title of the highest-grossing zombie movie of all time, yet the anticipated sequel, initially set for June 2017, faced significant delays.
Prior attempts to develop a sequel included a version from 2015, which was spearheaded by director J.A. Bayona and writer Steven Knight, but it ultimately did not materialize. Additionally, a sequel planned in 2019 under the direction of David Fincher was also canceled before production began. Fincher later drew comparisons between his envisioned approach and the acclaimed series The Last of Us.
Ellison, who served as an executive producer on the original film, now plays a pivotal role in overseeing the franchise under the newly merged company. Skydance co-produced the 2013 film alongside Paramount and Pitt’s production company, Plan B.
The studio’s renewed enthusiasm for World War Z comes on the heels of the impressive box office performance of Pitt‘s recent film, F1. This movie outperformed the zombie film at the box office, becoming Pitt‘s highest-grossing release with $575 million globally.
Paramount Skydance is also making significant investments in other franchises, such as Transformers and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, which is expected to feature a crossover with G.I. Joe. Upcoming horror projects include A Quiet Place Part III (scheduled for July 9, 2027), Smile 3, and Scream 7 (set for February 27, 2026).
Co-film chief Josh Greenstein stated that the studio will focus on major intellectual properties alongside original films (according to The Hollywood Reporter). The first film to receive the green light under the new management is High Side, directed by James Mangold and starring Timothée Chalamet.
Dana Goldberg, co-chair of Paramount Pictures, underscored the importance of a unified strategy for managing iconic brands like Star Trek across both film and television platforms.
Originally reported by Anubhav Chaudhry on SuperHeroHype.
