Every time I write about the long-gestating sequel to 2012’s stunning DREDD, I take a moment to exalt the energy, artistry, and uncompromisingly visceral nature of that film. I suppose I just did so again.
And, whenever I write about DREDD, I also go out of my way to assert that the picture was marketed in an abysmal and unimaginative fashion - resulting in a box office shortfall the film might not have endured if it had been introduced and spun in any number of alternate manners.
Based on box office alone, the idea of another DREDD movie would seem laughable at best. But, evidently, strong word-of-mouth and mighty sales and rentals on home video/digital have handsomely bolstered chances that we might well see Karl Urban’s ultra-hard-boiled judge, jury, and executioner once more. We’ve even heard rumblings that a project was currently being developed. Urban’s recent comments at Chicago Comic-Con not only re-enforce that ‘something is afoot’ - they hint at the direction a new film might head.
"...there is a definite possibility. But, it is more likely that we will do the origins story with Dredd trekking through the cursed earth to find the first Chief Judge Fargo."
…says Urban via ShallowGraves, HERE.
For those unfamiliar with Judge Fargo, he’s essentially a “clone father” to Dredd - i.e. the person from whom Dredd was cloned. In 1995’s Stallone-starring JUDGE DREDD, the character was played by Max von Sydow,
So, if you love DREDD (2012) but don’t own it? Rent it again, or buy it. Keep the fires alive. Audience support for DREDD seems to be mattering - let’s keep helping the cause along. Because, if you’ve read this far, chances are better than not that you’d like to see another Urban-verse DREDD movie just like I do - perhaps even as much as I do.
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Glen Oliver
“Merrick”
