Detective PikachustarJustice Smithfinds himself in a peculiar position: he is as much in the dark about the sequel’s progress as the movie’s fanbase. Smith played Tim Goodman in the 2019 box office success.
2023 brought some flickers of hope when it was announced that Jonathan Krisel, known for the eccentricTim and Eric Awesome Show, Great Job!, would take the directorial reins, while Chris Galletta, the writer behindThe Kings of Summer, was set to craft the screenplay. These developments suggested a fresh creative direction, diverging from the original team led by Rob Letterman and a group of writers including Dan Hernandez, Benji Samit, and Derek Connolly.
In an interview withScreen Rant, Smith acknowledged the stagnant state of affairs regarding the sequel. Despite the buzz and speculative articles, his phone remains silent, leaving him clinging to the same strands of information as the public. Smith revealed:
“I have not heard of any movement. I mean, I know what was released online, but no one has called me. So I’m just waiting for that call.”
Despite the impressive haul of over $450 million globally by its predecessor,Detective Pikachu 2seems to be navigating through an uncertain path of development, often referred to as ‘development hell.’ The project, incubated by Legendary Entertainment, has been on the audience’s radar even before the first movie’s release, sparking a blend of excitement and impatience among fans.
RELATED:Best Stories to Adapt for a Live-Action Pokémon Movie
The original Detective Pikachu distinguished itself as more than a typicalPokémon video game adaptation. It wove a narrative that appealed to a broad audience, drawing in fans with its blend of nostalgia, novelty, and a dash of Ryan Reynolds' signature voice performance as Pikachu. The ensemble cast, featuring not only Smith but also talents like Kathryn Newton, Suki Waterhouse, and Ken Watanabe, contributed to a rich tapestry that resonated well beyond the gaming community.
Justice Smith and Fans Cling to Hope Amid Detective Pikachu 2 Delays
Smith’s emotional investment in the franchise is palpable. His remarks from 2021 reveal a blend of resignation and lingering hope. The actor, while tempering expectations, couldn’t conceal his genuine enthusiasm for a sequel, embodying the collective sentiment of countless fans who remain tethered to the prospect of revisiting Ryme City and its eclectic inhabitants.
AsDetective Pikachu 2continues to hover in the limbo of pre-production, the scenario encapsulates a broader narrative about the uncertainties of creative industries. Projects, regardless of their initial success or the fervor they inspire, are subject to an intricate web of decisions, timelines, and, sometimes, sheer chance.
For Smith and the dedicated fans ofDetective Pikachu, the wait continues. The sequel, much like the best mysteries, keeps its secrets closely guarded, leaving a trail of breadcrumbs and anticipation in its wake. In this waiting game, the only certainty is the collective hope for a return to the vibrant world that once captured the imaginations of millions worldwide. Whether this hope materializes into reality is a question only time can unravel.
Detective Pikachu
