Variety has confirmed that Warner Bros. is developing a modern reimagining of the 1993 family classic Free Willy. Joe and Anthony Russo's AGBO banner will produce the project, with the blockbuster directors serving as executive producers. The screenplay is being penned by Mary-Margaret Kunze and Jade Halley Bartlett, while original franchise veteran Lauren Shuler Donner returns to produce.
The 1993 original was a massive commercial success, grossing $153.7 million on a modest $20 million budget, and notably helped shift global public opinion against keeping orcas in captivity.
Early fan reactions to the reboot are mixed. Many are already joking that a CGI whale and the lack of Michael Jackson’s iconic soundtrack won't deliver the same emotional impact. Is this a remake audiences actually want, or should Willy stay free?