Lee Cronin to Revive The Mummy Franchise

Published Dec. 21, 2024, 8:00 a.m. ET

In an exciting new development for fans of horror and adventure films alike, The Mummy franchise is set to rise once more, with acclaimed director Lee Cronin at the helm. Known for his work on Evil Dead Rise, Cronin will write and direct the upcoming installment, which is scheduled for release on April 17, 2026, by New Line Cinema.

The original Mummy debuted in 1932, featuring the legendary Boris Karloff. The franchise experienced a resurgence in popularity with the 1999 adaptation starring Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz. This version, along with its sequel The Mummy Returns in 2001, introduced a new generation to the captivating tale of adventure and horror. The legacy continued with a 2008 reboot and a 2017 attempt starring Tom Cruise, but the 1999 film remains a fan favorite.

A Unique Take on A Classic

Director Cronin expressed his vision for the next chapter, stating, ‘This will be unlike any Mummy movie you ever laid eyeballs on before.’ He elaborated by saying, ‘I’m digging deep into the earth to raise something very ancient and very frightening.’

Fans are hopeful that Brendan Fraser will make an appearance in the upcoming remake, with several social media posts urging for his involvement. One user humorously noted, ‘@brendan__fraser or we riot,’ while another stated, ‘Brendan Fraser’s Mummy is probably my favorite movie of all time.’ The affection for Fraser’s role underscores the character’s lasting impact on audiences.

Production Insights

The film is being produced by well-known horror veterans Blumhouse and Atomic Monster, alongside Cronin’s own label, Doppelgängers. In a move that showcases their expertise in revitalizing horror classics, Blumhouse had previously produced movies like The Invisible Man and will also be involved with the upcoming Wolfman, starring Christopher Abbott.

Cronin’s prior successful project, Evil Dead Rise, garnered impressive box office sales nearing $150 million and has already prompted two announced spinoffs, highlighting Cronin’s capability to draw in audiences.

Conclusion

As the anticipation builds for the new Mummy film, fans enthusiastically await more news, particularly regarding the potential return of Brendan Fraser. Will he bring nostalgia and a sense of adventure back to the franchise? Only time will tell!