Story perspectives

Director Calls ‘Nice Guys’ Sequel a Sellout, Needs Bigger Budget

5/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

Director Shane Black says a sequel to “The Nice Guys” is a sell after it “bombed,” but could happen with a bigger budget.
He describes the movie as a grounded buddy-movie comedy unlike high-concept studio comedies.
The 2016 film cost $50 million, earned $71 million, and stars Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe as private eyes Holland March and Jackson Healy.
Supporting actors include Kim Basinger, Keith David, Margaret Qualley and Angourie Rice as Holly.

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Story summary

Director Shane Black says a sequel to “The Nice Guys” is a sell after it “bombed,” but could happen with a bigger budget.
He describes the movie as a grounded buddy-movie comedy unlike high-concept studio comedies.
The 2016 film cost $50 million, earned $71 million, and stars Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe as private eyes Holland March and Jackson Healy.
Supporting actors include Kim Basinger, Keith David, Margaret Qualley and Angourie Rice as Holly.