Just reported today, a sequel to Frank Capra’s iconic movie “It’s a Wonderful Life” starring Jimmy Stewart and Donna Reed is in the works. The story, entitled for now “It’s a Wonderful Life: The Rest of the Story” is being produced and collaborated on by Star Partners and Hummingbird Prods.
The original actress, Karolyn Grimes, that played Jimmy Sterwart’s daughter in the movie Zuzu (you all remember Zuzu’s petals) will return as an angel in the story, showing George Bailey (the noted unlikeable grandson of the original George Bailey) how much better life would have been if he had never been born, basically the opposite of what the original George Bailey was shown by the angel. They are hoping to have the sequel in movie theaters by the holidays in 2015.
The screenplay was written by Bob Farnsworth of Hummingbird Productions and Martha Bolton. “The storyline of the new film retains the spirit of the original – every life is important as long as you have friends,” Farnsworth said.
According to Variety, no casting decision for the lead role of Bailey’s grandson will be made until February but producers have also begun discussions with original cast members Jimmy Hawkins, who portrayed Tommy Bailey, and Carol Coombs, who played Janie Bailey, to reprise their roles as well. The producers are also interviewing potential directors and plans are to shoot the majority of the movie in Louisiana.
The writers and producers insist the movie will retain the feeling of the original.
Star Partners are best known for “The Right Stuff,” “The Killing Fields,” “The Color Purple,” “The Mission,” “Moonstruck,” and “Rain Man.”
“It’s a Wonderful Life” was nominated for five Oscars including Best Picture but lost out to “The Best Years of Our Lives.”
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Now for this writers input: No, No, No, No and No. Some things should be left well enough alone. Frank Capra’s collection of films is one of them. What’s next? “Mr. Smith Goes Back to Washington: The Revenge!” What do you think? Will you watch? Do you hate the idea? Leave a comment below!