Ryan Coogler Rewrites “Space Jam” Sequel
“Creed” and “Black Panther” writer/director Ryan Coogler and “Searching” writer/producer Sev Ohanian have come onboard the “Space Jam” sequel at Warner Bros. Pictures.
According to
THR, the pair have been enlisted by the studio to pen the newest draft of the script. The news comes as reports emerged on the weekend that the film’s star LeBron James was having trouble recruiting fellow NBA stars for the project.
The trade says the truth is more complicated and far less to do with James’ ability than previously reported as the studio is the one responsible for recruiting other talents. The main roadblock though? Sneaker contracts.
Nike is essential to the “Space Jam” franchise, which means fellow All-Stars Stephen Curry, James Harden and Kevin Durant likely won’t join James due to their exclusivity contracts with rivals like Under Armour and Adidas. In Durant’s case, though he’s a key member of Team Nike, he’s pursuing his own projects including the Apple TV+ series “Swagger”.
The new film is said to be less reliant on fellow players, instead his own family arc is key with a yet-to-be-cast teen character named Dom as the second lead. “Star Trek: Discovery” star Sonequa Martin-Green has already been cast as James’ wife.
In addition, Oscar-nominated cinematographer Bradford Young (“Arrival,” “Solo,” “Selma”) will serve as director of photography. The film is reportedly still on track for a July start under the helm of Terence Nance.
James’ recent CBS competition TV series “Million Dollar Mile” was yanked from the schedule last week after just two episodes aired to poor ratings.