John Boyega is Back With the $160mil Blockbuster Prequel, What We Know So Far
The beloved actor is working on a potential hit show.
Summary
- The Book of Eli is one of the most successful stand-alone movies of all time.
- The movie is said to be getting a prequel show starring John Boyega.
- The creators of TBoE are also on board with the new production.
Usually, when a movie is successful, it is turned into a franchise, capitalizing on the popularity of the original. However, some movies don't get such treatment, no matter how well received by audiences and critics. This was certainly the case with the Hughes brothers' post-apocalyptic action flick, The Book of Eli.
Released in 2010, The Book of Eli became an instant hit, grossing a whopping $160 million against an $80 million budget. Aside from its intriguing premise – the film is set in a world where a nuclear war has destroyed the ecosystem, leading to the downfall of humanity – the film boasted a star-studded cast, including Denzel Washington, Mila Kunis and Gary Oldman.
No wonder, then, that people have been clamoring for another installment of the beloved story. And it seems that this universal desire is about to come true, as John Boyega has been announced to portray the titular character in an upcoming TV prequel.
John Boyega Will Star in and Executive Produce a 'The Book of Eli' Spin-Off Series
The fan-favorite actor from the Star Wars sequel trilogy was recently named as the star of the upcoming prequel series. While the series is reportedly in the early stages of production, several important details about the project have been revealed.
First and foremost, John Boyega will take over Denzel Washington's role from The Book of Eli, but the SW star's character is said to be much younger. Considering that the prequel in question will take place thirty years prior to the events of the original movie, the age gap between the two versions of the titular character is apparent. Additionally, Boyega will also serve as an EP on the series.
Other Details About the Prequel
As the show will be set thirty years before the main story, it is expected to explore the nuclear catastrophe that decimated the world or its immediate aftermath, thus following Eli's first steps as the keeper of the world's salvation. The story will once again be written by Gary Whitta, who penned the original script. He will also serve as the prequel's primary showrunner.
In addition, the Hughes brothers, who directed The Book of Eli, are expected to reprise their directorial roles for the show. No word yet on which network or streaming service will pick it up. But rumor has it that the spin-off is already in production at Alcon Entertainment.
Hopefully we'll hear more about the show soon.