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Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz Set to Return in New Mummy Sequel

11/5/2025, 12:14:59 AM

Universal Pictures Revives a Beloved Franchise

Universal Pictures is reviving its iconic action-adventure franchise, "The Mummy," with Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz reportedly in talks to reprise their roles as Rick O'Connell and Evelyn Carnahan, respectively. This new installment will be directed by the filmmaking duo Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, collectively known as Radio Silence, who gained recognition for their work on the horror film "Ready or Not" and the recent "Scream" reboots.

Background of the Franchise

The original "The Mummy," released in 1999, was a significant box office success, grossing over $422.5 million worldwide. Directed by Stephen Sommers, it combined elements of action, adventure, and horror, introducing audiences to Fraser's treasure hunter and Weisz's Egyptologist. The film's success led to two sequels: "The Mummy Returns" in 2001, which earned $435 million, and "The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor" in 2008, which grossed $405 million but featured a recast of Weisz's character. The franchise also inspired a spin-off series, "The Scorpion King," starring Dwayne Johnson.

Details of the New Sequel

The upcoming film is not a reboot but a direct sequel that will disregard the events of the third movie. David Coggeshall has been tasked with writing the screenplay, while franchise veteran Sean Daniel will produce alongside William Sherak, James Vanderbilt, and Paul Neinstein of Project X Entertainment. Universal has not disclosed plot details or a release date, and representatives for the studio declined to comment on the project.

Criticism of Previous Installments

The franchise's last attempt to reboot, 2017's "The Mummy," starring Tom Cruise, was intended to launch a new series of interconnected monster films under the "Dark Universe" banner. Despite grossing $409 million, it was critically panned, leading Universal to abandon its broader plans. Fraser has previously commented on the failed reboot, noting that the charm and fun of the original films were missing, stating, “It was too much of a straight-ahead horror movie. ‘The Mummy’ should be a thrill ride, but not terrifying and scary.”

Official Statements & Responses

While Universal has not officially commented on the new film, both Fraser and Weisz have expressed enthusiasm about revisiting their roles. Weisz remarked on the enduring popularity of the original films, stating, “Everybody in The Mummy was just brilliant... it had charm, and charm is such a strange thing. It's either there or it isn't.”

What's Next for the Filmmakers

Radio Silence is currently working on "Ready or Not 2: Here I Come," set for release in April 2026. Their involvement in the new "Mummy" film reflects a strategic move by Universal to capitalize on the nostalgia surrounding the franchise, particularly as Fraser's career has seen a resurgence following his Academy Award win for "The Whale."

Conclusion

As Universal Pictures prepares to bring back "The Mummy," the reunion of Fraser and Weisz is generating excitement among fans of the original films. With a talented team behind the project, the new sequel aims to capture the charm and adventure that made the franchise a beloved staple of early 2000s cinema.