Nearly two decades after Keanu Reeves first portrayed John Constantine, fans are cautiously hopeful that the exorcist’s return may be closer than expected. The sequel, announced in 2022, has faced slow development, hindered by script issues despite Francis Lawrence’s return as director. Reeves’ recent remarks suggest renewed progress as the project moves toward possible approval within Warner Bros. Discovery, keeping the spotlight on whether the James Gunn DCU derails Constantine.
Updates on the Development of Constantine 2
In a rare interview, Reeves provided a cautiously optimistic status report on Constantine 2, stating,
“Fingers crossed. Another draft of the script came in. We’re waiting. We’re gonna take it to the studio and hopefully they like it too.” – Keanu Reeves
This comment marks the first sign of forward momentum in months, sparking anticipation among fans who have eagerly awaited the continuation of Constantine’s story. The production has been stalled largely due to dissatisfaction with the script, but Reeves’ willingness to positively acknowledge the latest draft suggests a breakthrough could be near.
Creative Vision Centered on a Grounded Sequel
Co-star Peter Stormare, who portrayed Lucifer in the original film, shed light earlier this year on the reasons behind the delays, emphasizing Reeves’ desire for a sequel that remains true to the original’s tone. Stormare explained,
“I think he wants to do his character again, Constantine, as grounded as it was in the first one. It took a long time for you to become a cult movie, it really worked, and it will work on the audience again. You don’t have to add a lot of action and shootouts. You have other movies. Don’t turn it into big Marvel… [Don’t turn it] into us flying around in harnesses all the time and shooting each other up. Don’t bring in the big guns. Let it be.” – Peter Stormare
Both actors appear to advocate for a sequel that maintains the dark, moody atmosphere of the 2005 film, avoiding the bombastic action style typical of larger comic book franchises. This approach aims to preserve what made the original a cult favorite despite mixed critical reception.
The Original Constantine’s Enduring Legacy
The 2005 Constantine film, while receiving mixed reviews from critics—holding a 46% score on Rotten Tomatoes—garnered a more positive response from audiences, with a 72% rating that eventually elevated it to cult-classic status. Its atmospheric visuals, unsettling demon encounters, and iconic descent into Hell resonated strongly, accompanied by standout performances from Reeves, Shia LaBeouf, Rachel Weisz, Tilda Swinton, Djimon Hounsou, and Stormare.
This sustained fan admiration is a key reason why Warner Bros. moved forward with the sequel amid leadership changes at the studio. Under David Zaslav’s regime, Constantine 2 remains one of the highly anticipated projects as the company reassesses its slate and franchises.
Anticipating the Future of Constantine and the DC Landscape
As Warner Bros. Discovery balances the expansion of James Gunn’s DC Universe, speculation has arisen about whether this new direction could impact existing properties like Constantine. However, Reeves’ comments and the creative team’s focus on a low-key, character-driven sequel suggest a commitment to keep Constantine distinct and faithful to its original spirit.
With Francis Lawrence returning as director and the script reportedly moving closer to studio approval, fans may soon see concrete advancement on the project. The continued involvement of the core cast and preservation of the original film’s tone could provide a compelling counterpoint to the broader, more bombastic DC Universe. As developments unfold, viewers should remain attentive to how this sequel carves its own path within the shifting landscape of superhero cinema.
