The long rumored sequel to the 1996 animated/live action basketball film Space Jam has finally been confirmed, with LeBron James set to star. Fast & Furious 6 and Star Trek Beyond director Justin Lin will helm the project, as well as co-write with Andrew Dodge & Alfredo Botello (Bad Words). James has mentioned interest in the project for some time now, but his comedic performance in Trainwreck apparently convinced Warner Bros. he was right for the role. James would replace previous star Michael Jordan, though it’s likely Jordan will at least cameo in the film.
Personally, as a Looney Tunes purist, I was never crazy about Space Jam. There are better ways to utilize these characters. There has been a few attempts at revamps in recent years. 2003’s Looney Tunes: Back in Action was a step in the right direction, but still fell flat. Cartoon Network has made a couple stabs at new series, including The Looney Tunes Show, and the currently running Wabbit, neither of which quite get it right. I can’t believe there are no animators who can come even a little close to the brilliance of Chuck Jones, Bob McKimson, Friz Freeling, and the rest of the classic Warner Bros. animators. Maybe Space Jam 2 can redeem Bugs and crew.
FUN FACT: The original Space Jam website still exists.
Source: THR