Across the Universe director Julie Taymor spills her plans for a potential sequel. The 2007 musical debuted to mixed reviews upon its release, but quickly garnered a loyal fan following. Across the Universe also managed to hold its own at award ceremonies, and received both a Golden Globe and Oscar nomination.
At its core, Across the Universe is a story that pays homage to the Beatles and the legacy the band left behind. The film focuses on six main characters, including Lucy, Jude, and Max, all of whom have names that are inspired by Beatles songs. Across the Universe also incorporates over 30 Beatles songs throughout the course of the movie, featuring everything from the upbeat "I Want to Hold Your Hand" to classic "Hey Jude."
While Across the Universe never received a follow-up film, Taymor shares her vision of a sequel with ReelBlend podcast. During her appearance, Taymor says she would love to dive into the "edgy, weird times in the '70s," especially considering the similarity between events in the 1970s and current day. Moreover, Taymor wants to spotlight new Beatles songs that weren't highlighted in the first film. You can check out Taymor's full statement on a sequel below:
"That’s so great to hear because I’m trying to convince people to make –I don’t want to call it Across The Universe 2 – but the next one. I just got off the phone about that actually. My God, there were 200 Beatles songs. So I only used 33. Plus I’d love to take, Jim Sturgess called me up and he wants to do it and Evan [Rachel Wood]’s game. I’m sure I can get the other people...I’d like to push it into the ‘70s. Really edgy, weird times in the ‘70s that are going to be very similar to what’s going to be happening in our country now, right? I dunno, you gotta find me some very daring people that are ready to do a new musical. That are very, you know, next generation… Everyone I talk to loves Across the Universe. We gotta do the next one."
Aside from revealing plot details for a potential sequel, Taymor also confirms that several cast members have expressed their excitement at creating an Across the Universe follow-up. For instance, Taymor mentions that both Jim Sturgess and Evan Rachel Wood, who played main characters Lucy and Jude, respectively, are on board for a sequel. Perhaps their enthusiasm is no surprise, though, especially considering the recent popularity of musicals within the film industry, with movies such as Into the Woods garnering critical and commercial acclaim. As such, while Hollywood likely won't be overtaken by musicals quite yet, it seems more and more stars are eager to prove their singing abilities are up to par with their acting.
Across the Universe is far from the first Beatles film made. However, it does an incredible job acting as a love letter to the gifted Liverpool band. That being said, Across the Universe only used a handful of the Beatles' total songs and there's an undeniable wealth of source material for Taymor to draw from if needed. As a result, perhaps Taymor's dream of a sequel really will come true, especially since it's exceedingly clear that the cast is ready to set out on a second journey across the universe.
Source: ReelBlend podcast