The filmmaker responsible for the modern adaptations of “The Invisible Man” and “Wolf Man”,
, has shared some news about the proposed TV series spin-off from his critically-acclaimed sci-fi action film,
. Unfortunately, the information may not be what enthusiasts were hoping to learn. In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Whannell disclosed that, contrary to the movie’s open-ended conclusion and the possibility of further installments, as well as the vast potential for additional exploration in this sci-fi universe, the previous ambitions of expanding “Upgrade” into a franchise are no longer being pursued.
Originally unveiled in 2018, the film “Upgrade” was penned and helmed by Leigh Whannell, with Logan Marshall-Green portraying the character Grey Trace, a technophobe who, despite residing in the technologically advanced year of 2046, experiences an attack that claims his wife’s life and leaves him paralyzed. A wealthy inventor subsequently proposes a remedy for Trace in the shape of an artificial intelligence implant named STEM, which promises to augment his body and enable him to exact retribution. However, one must ponder whether the billionaire and STEM are as they appear to be.
The upgrade received widespread praise due to its immersive setting and distinctive action scenes. This appreciation was reflected in a 88% approval rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes, matched by an identical score from audiences on Popcornmeter. In 2018, producer Jason Blum announced plans for a sequel, which eventually evolved into a TV series focusing on STEM technology and a new host. However, it seems that writer-director Leigh Whannell may have grown disinterested in further development of this project…
Leigh Whannell Is No Longer Interested in an ‘Upgrade’ Sequel: “We’re Good”
As a dedicated film enthusiast, I can relate to Leigh Whannell’s sentiments when he expresses his reluctance towards making sequels. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, he candidly admitted, “When it comes to making a sequel, I find myself thinking, ‘I believe we’ve reached our peak there. We’re good as is.'” Instead, this visionary filmmaker yearns for his movie to evolve into a cherished cult classic, rather than following the path of critical acclaim that often leads to additional installments.
It’s amusing because Upgrade shares similarities with The Invisible Man. Both films conclude on a puzzling note, leaving viewers wondering “What happens next?” I find it astounding how the science fiction portrayed in that movie has now become commonplace. Recently, while walking with my brother who was visiting from Australia, we encountered an autonomous car, a Waymo vehicle. This encounter reminded me of how, as a child, self-driving cars were seen as a far-fetched sci-fi idea on the silver screen.
Currently, something so ordinary that it goes unnoticed when passing by on the road is a testament to our ability to acclimate swiftly to what was once futuristic. No one responded with much fanfare. It’s fascinating how quickly we, as humans, have adjusted to these concepts that were once considered science fiction. Watching the world catch up to Upgrade has been amusing. However, when it comes to a sequel, I feel like ‘we’re good there.’ Letting the film continue its journey as a cult classic, and if people perceive it as prophetic, that would be fantastic.
Moving on from the realm of “Upgrade”, this year, Leigh Whannell offers a fresh take on the “Wolf Man” legend, currently showing in cinemas.
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2025-01-21 17:31