Why Never Made Sky High 2?
The delayed progress of Sky High 2 can be mostly attributed to the finances. Many of the names in the Sky High cast would go on to be big Hollywood stars. For example, Mary Elizabeth Winsted's horror films are now rather well-known in theaters since she later starred in 10 Cloverfield Lane, Final Destination 3, and numerous more films. Additionally well-known performers include Kurt Russell and Nicholas Braun, who would probably want a big budget cut themselves. Apart from the CGI expense and the opportunity losses, Sky High 2 would be a costly endeavour.
Apart from that, the concept of a Sky High Sequel was already 11 years late when it was revealed in 2016, and the years following have only seen more separation from the original. The target audience is rapidly being replaced by nostalgic viewers, thereby creating limited room for the sequel. Another Disney property, the Marvel Cinematic Universe, has likewise taken the stage and displaced Mitchell's universe. Disney can allocate the funds for a school-based superhero film to the MCU-based X-Men, which will have a significantly higher return on investment.
Plot Details & Returning Cast Revealed by Director for Sky High 2: Cancelled
Director Mike Mitchell is revealing every important element from the shelved Sky High Sequel. Originally showing the exploits of a group of students at a high school for superheroes, the film debuted in 2005. Given a $35 million budget, it was rather successful—earning $86.4 million. Disney revealed intentions to create a sequel in 2016, but since then there have not been many fresh ideas published. Sadly, Sky High 2 never came to pass.
Mitchell discussed lightly the possible narrative and the cast members for Sky High 2 in an interview with ComicBook.com to promote Kung Fu Panda 4. The story would have revolved a college for superheroes, with the original students returning as teachers. Other returning cast members would have included Kurt Russell and Mary Elizabeth Winsted. View his full quote below:
Reviewing Sky High from the Past
The 2005 comedy Sky High centers on the son of two well-known superheroes attending a high school designed for student heroes. Along with Danielle Panabaker, Mary Elizabeth Winsted, Kurt Russell, and Kelly Preston—with Bruce Campbell and Lynda Carter appearances—Michael Angarano stars.
For its target market, who delighted to see the stars as they were portrayed, it was quite popular. The funny and interesting storyline of the show is another thing that makes it famous. It is among the several Disney films that aficionados adore.
The Sequel's Story
"All the original children would be returning, including cousin Greg [Nicholas Braun]. One of his earliest Movies was this. Kurt Russell would have to be back as well, Mary Elizabeth Winsted as Royal Pain. We assumed all the children were now grown-ups working as university professors at Save U. You simply carry that enjoyment from the high school into the college years. It would be very fantastic.
The director opted to be upfront about the aborted sequel since he still has great hopes for what may have been even if the sequel never came to pass. One can understand the reasons the director wants to travel the globe and is so delighted of the project. Looking forward the next project would be fascinating.
The Prospect for Sky High
Should there ever be a flood of interest for Sky High on Disney+, Disney might want to explore creating a sequel. Right now, Disney finds most appealing paying more attention to more well-known properties. Those looking for school-based superheroes will have to resort to the current Fox X-Men films or Prime Video's Gen V, which is hardly as suitable for children and families as Sky High is. Sky High 2 might have brought the franchise back to life, but development has only stagnated.
The X-Men movie relaunch for the MCU is much anticipated, but specifics on when it will premiere and what it will be about are still lacking.
Source: ComicsBook.com