Third Independence Day: Will Smith's Return and Future of Franchise
Fans have speculated much about the likelihood of an Independence Day 3 with Will Smith returning as Steven Hiller. Roland Emmerich, the franchise director, has given some insight on the likelihood of such a sequel developing.
Third Independence Day: Uncertain Return of Will Smith
Emmerich admitted in a recent interview with The Playlist that a major challenge is the death of Will Smith's character in Independence Day: Resurgence. He also mentioned Disney's present ownership of the franchise rights, so adding still another level of complication to the matter.
Indeed, well. I could have said, "[Will's character] died in number two." Disney now has the choice to make as well, which is even more detrimental since they never ever did my deal, Emmerich said.
Independence Day: Impact of Resurgence on the Franchise
The lukewarm reception to Independence Day: Resurgence surely will affect the franchise's future. Released in 2016, the sequel failed to capture the magic of the first movie and drew harsh criticism for its poor execution and thin plot.
Released in 1996, the first Independence Day was a box office smash, grossing over $817 million worldwide. Its follow-up fell short, just earning $389.7 million worldwide. Resurgence's commercial and critical letdown has made the possibility of an Independence Day 3 even more precarious.
Absence of Will Smith and Future of the Franchise
The film's poor reception was mostly due to Will Smith's conspicuous absence from Independence Day: Resurgence. Smith's star power and his rapport with other actors like Jeff Goldblum and Bill Pullman helped the original movie to be rather successful. His absence created a big hole in the sequel that viewers couldn connect with.
A third installment is far off given the critical and financial collapse of the sequel as well as the unknown future of the franchise's rights under Disney. Still, the nostalgia connected with the original movie and the ongoing appeal of the franchise's concept could draw both viewers and producers.
Should Independence Day 3 fall?
The first Independence Day left behind still intact is legacy. Years later, viewers still find great delight in this venerable sci-fi movie. The failure of the sequel, however, points to a third movie might not be a good concept. Without Will Smith, a sequel would seem empty; the present situation of the franchise makes a successful sequel improbable.
Eventually
With Will Smith's return, the likelihood of Independence Day 3 occurring is still quite low. The present situation of the franchise and the unfavorable reception of Resurgence have seriously reduced the possibilities for a third installment. Although nostalgic viewers would find a new installment appealing, the risks involved in such a project are rather great. Maintaining the legacy of the franchise will help it to be better served than compromising its reputation with another underwhelming successor.
