There were quite a few changes for movie schedules today as coronavirus continues to impact theatrical releases. The result is a delay in release for Mulan, Star Wars, and the Avatar movies that were supposed to be released in the coming years.
Mulan
Mulan was originally supposed to be released in March but has continued to find its theatrical release date pushed back. Most recently it was pushed back to August 21st when it was expected that theaters would once again be open for moviegoers. However, as COVID-19 numbers do not appear to be opening the door for this at this time, Mulan’s release date has been pushed back yet again. This time, a new date has not been announced.
“Over the last few months, it’s become clear that nothing can be set in stone when it comes to how we release films during this global health crisis, and today that means pausing our release plans for Mulan as we assess how we can most effectively bring this film to audiences around the world,” a Disney spokesperson said in a statement.
Avatar Movies
Along with Mulan’s release date being postponed indefinitely, all of the Avatar movies have also been postponed. Avatar 2 moves from Dec. 17, 2021, to Dec. 16, 2022; Avatar 3 moves from Dec. 22, 2023, to Dec. 20, 2024; Avatar 4 from Dec. 19, 2025, to Dec. 18, 2026; and Avatar 5 from Dec. 17, 2027, to Dec. 22, 2028. Director James Cameron shared the following message about the change of dates on social media:
A message from James Cameron.
Irayo, Na'vi Nation. Stay safe. 💙 pic.twitter.com/Uwi2J6xF4k
— Avatar (@officialavatar) July 23, 2020
Star Wars Movies
The Star Wars schedule has also been mixed up. The movie that was supposed to be released on Dec. 16, 2022, has been moved to Dec. 22, 2023, while the following film moves from Dec. 20, 2024. to Dec. 19, 2025. The third untitled film moves from Dec. 18, 2026. to Dec. 17, 2027. While not a lot is known about these films, there were some details released today.
Taika Waititi confirmed where his involvement in the next Star Wars film is in an interview with the BBC. In it, he shared that “we’re writing.” He is co-writing the movie with Academy Award-nominated Krysty Wilson Cairns, best known for her work on the Penny Dreadful TV series. Not much is known about this film beyond their involvement. However, with previous Star Wars cast members stating that they are through with the series, it can be guessed that it won’t include anyone from the most recent trilogy. Mark Hamill has said he has no plans to continue on as Luke Skywalker. Both John Boyega and Oscar Isaac have also indicated that they would like to move on past the franchise.
The next Star Wars film with Taika Waititi has had great success with Thor: Ragnorak and also directing an episode during the first season of The Mandalorian. Lucasfilm has tasked him with helming the next Star Wars project and fans can’t wait to see what he does. Many have hoped and speculated that the film could take place during the age of The High Republic. However, all of that is just speculation and wishful thinking at this time.
Other Movie Release Changes
- The Personal History of David Copperfield (Searchlight)is now being released on August 28, 2020.
- Death on the Nile (20th Century) moves to October 23, 2020.
- The Empty Man (20th Century) moves to December 4, 2020.
- The French Dispatch (Searchlight), previously dated October 16, 2020, now does not have a release date.
- Antlers (Searchlight) is now targeting February 19, 2021.
- Ridley Scott’s The Last Duel (20th Cenury) is now opening with a wide release on October 15, 2021. Originally it was scheduled for limited release on Christmas Day 2020 with a January 2021 expansion.
- An untitled Disney live-action film is now scheduled for December 17, 2021. This slot was formerly held by Avatar 2.
What do you think about the updates to Disney’s theatrical release schedule? Share your thoughts in the comments below or with DAPS MAGIC on Facebook or Twitter!
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