JJ Abrams has reignited hope for a Cloverfield sequel by confirming that a follow-up to the 2008 blockbuster is in the works. Speaking to MTV, Abrams divulged the following: “We’re working on something right now with that and again, you know, it’s early stages.”
Despite not giving away, well, anything, this snippet of information does give cause for thought about the prospect of another Cloverfield movie. The original – directed by Matt Reeves with Abrams acting as producer – took a monster chunk out of the box office, by amassing a $170.7 million worldwide gross. Not bad for a movie shot in a head-spinning handheld style.
A large part of Cloverfield’s success rested in its shock and awe factor. Over many years viewers have become accustomed to watching big screen blockbusters, all full of rampant destruction and shot in a glossy Michael Bay style. Cloverfield, however, was something totally different, and in the wake of the 9/11 attacks in America this was a film that was actually relatable to many. So with a sequel in the works we can only ponder as to what type of plot and style it will abide by. Part of me wants a new Cloverfield movie to be set in another location but shot in the same visceral style. Maybe even broaden the scope to that of a worldwide invasion by the film’s alien beast and her brood. But there is also a worry that this recycled idea could lose its charm second time round. Still, said monster was ten times the creation of a certain beast of old (read: a rebooted Godzilla), so exploring its origins could be an interesting slant. Send a research team – one armed with a handy camera, of course – to some jungle/ice/desert planet and let chaos commence.
Let us know your thoughts on Cloverfield and its mooted sequel below
