If King of parody films Mel Brooks would have his way, the sequel to the classic 1987 film, Spaceballs 2, release will be set not too long after the December showing of Star Wars Episode 7: The Force Awakens. Then again, the lead stars are still being invited and the earliest possible filming date won't be until after the new Star Wars film hits theaters during the Christmas season.
It's a good time as any, because some of the original cast members may opt to reprise their roles. Mel Brooks himself will be playing the supporting role of President Skroob/Yogurt. He said he wants Rick Moranis to be part of Spaceballs 2, if he succeeds in pulling Rick out of retirement to play Dark Helmet again. Spaceballs, the actor underscored, was "cult video hit."
Among the original cast members, three have passed away. One of them, John Candy, portrayed Barf, the sidekick of Lone Star, played by Bill Pullman. Pullman ("Independence Day," "The Equalizer") and Daphne Zuniga ("Melrose Place" and "One Tree Hill") continue to work on projects. Humor in films, handled by a master like Mel Brooks, can offer audiences of all ages a rib-tickling, wonderful time.
As Brooks wends his way into the 'Star Wars' kingdom anew, some questions come to mind. Who will he collaborate with for the new project? Movie insiders note that the new creative team would have to be able to plumb "the deep, complex meta level of humor" that Mel Brooks can deliver.
For now, Brooks faces a number of hurdles, beginning with cast members he'd really want to be part of the Spaceballs 2 project. Do you think another parody film of Star Wars and other sci-fi franchises will materialize? Let us know your ideas about the planned and rather overdue sequel in the comments box below.
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