So far, Fast Five has already grossed about $50 million more (domestically) than Fast and Furious did in its entire run. But how much of that spike in ticket sales can be attributed to the addition of Dwayne Johnson? Personally speaking, I know myself and the group of friends I went to see Fast Five with would likely not have contributed to the film’s $86 million opening had it not featured the artist formerly known as “The Rock.” His presence promised something fresh for those of us who would have otherwise looked at Fast Five as just another “been there, seen that” franchise film.
Now, it appears Paramount is hoping Johnson can bring a similar level of interest to its G.I. Joe franchise. Deadline‘s Mike Fleming reports Johnson has entered negotiations to play a character named Roadblock (how fitting) in the sequel, G.I. Joe: Cobra Strikes, from director Jon M. Chu (Justin Bieber: Never Say Never).
With Ray Park already confirmed, it looks like Channing Tatum is also likely return for the sequel. The studio will lean heavily on the film to take the Star Trek sequel’s place in their summer 2012 schedule. I still haven’t seen the first G.I. Joe movie, but I would probably be interested in catching up if Johnson hops aboard the franchise. Am I alone here?
In other sequel news, Shadow and Act (via The Playlist) has the scoop on one possible “Bond girl” for the still-untitled James Bond 23. British actress Naomie Harris (Pirates of the Caribbean 2 and 3, 28 Days Later…) revealed to a source that she has indeed been offered a role in the film, perhaps shedding some truth on a rumor started by British tabloid News of the World. The paper initially reported that Harris would play “Daniel Craig’s sexy sidekick.”
While offers for roles going to Javier Bardem and Ralph Fiennes have been reported, neither is confirmed. Judi Dench (again playing M) is the only confirmed cast member outside Daniel Craig returning as Bond, but I’m sure the cast will soon begin taking shape with filming expected to start this fall. The Sam Mendes-directed film has set its U.S. release date for November 9, 2012.
