Not too long ago, we posted an article discussing the possibility of a sequel to 2002’s werewolf classic Dog Soldiers.
The practical effects laden extravaganza sees a group of soldiers sheltering from a pack of werewolves in the Scottish Highlands. Gruesome, yet with a touch of humour, the film soon became a cult classic, and fans craved more.
Despite writer-director Neil Marshall repeatedly floating the idea of a sequel over the years, nothing ever materialised. Marshall was clear that he was willing and had a script ready, but rights issues with Warner Bros have resulted in the project stalling. Although not willing to make the sequel, it appears Warner Bros don’t want to let the rights go either, despite the best efforts of producer Chris Figg.
So, recently, Marshall updated us on the status of a sequel. In an Instagram post, showcasing a gorgeous fan-made teaser poster for a sequel, Marshall spoke at length.
In a heartfelt post, the filmmaker informed fans that Dog Soldiers 2 will not be happening:
“It is with a heavy heart that I must announce that this teaser poster is probably as close as we’ll ever get to a Dog Soldiers sequel. Since so many fans keep asking, I figured I couldn’t keep the disappointing news to myself any longer. Your unwavering loyalty deserves better.”
Marshall continued, elaborating on the elongated process of obtaining the rights to make a sequel:
“For the past 6 years myself and original UK producer of Dog Soldiers, Christopher Figg, have been working tirelessly to negotiate for the rights to make a sequel with the US Producer/rights holder David E. Allen and his company Dash. 6 years!! That’s as long as it took to write and make the first movie. Unfortunately, these negotiations came to a sudden and unexpected halt when, earlier this year, we were due to finalise and sign the agreements and…. they disappeared. Vanished. Cut off all communication. Refuse to answer emails or calls.
Why, you ask. I don’t know why. That’s the point. We simply don’t know what happened or why, but the end result is that we don’t have the rights to make a sequel without this deal in place, thus rendering it effectively dead. I’m sorry. We tried. We really did. And in Chris Figg’s case spent a lot of money on legal fees doing so. We wanted this for you. For all the countless fans who’ve asked for it. But in the end, perhaps it’s just not meant to be. The original film was lightning in a bottle, and perhaps lightning doesn’t, and in some cases shouldn’t, strike twice.”
(sniff) We’re not crying, you’re crying!
So, regrettably, it seems Dog Soldiers 2 came very close to happening, but stumbled at the very last hurdle. This is through no fault of Marshall or Figg… And we only hope the US rights holders are aware of just what a juggernaut they missed out on. We certainly are…
