The idea of aJumanjiremake isn’t exactly the easiest pill to swallow. Film buffs aren’t usually eager for a remake (unless you look at something likeThe Golden CompassorThe Last Air Bender, properties that deserve second chances), but news of this comes not two years afterRobin Williamstragically passed away. Even though he may be one of the biggest hype men on the Internet,Dwayne Johnsonpromises the remake will honor the late actor.
In anInstagrampost, Johnson, who has a starring role in the remake, wrote in part:
An important thing that I want to be honest and bring up is Robin Williams. The love and respect I have for this man is boundless. You have my word, we will honor his name and the character of “Alan Parrish” will stand alone and be forever immortalized in the world of JUMANJI in an earnest and cool way. I have an idea of what to do and I think his family will be proud. I also think Robin is somewhere lookin' down and laughing, remembering the first time we met backstage and I (for the first time ever) was a star struck bumbling idiot that couldn’t even get my words out. Idiot. He literally calmed me down w/ that smile and laugh. But that’s for another fun story down the road.
Jake Kasdan(Sex Tape) is directing the remake with a team that includes producerMatt Tolmachand Johnson’s Seven Bucks Production banner.The goalwas for The Rock to co-star in the film withKevin Hartfollowing their joint stint inCentral Intelligence. There was some worry that Hart wouldn’t be able to make the remake work withhis schedule for another remake—The IntouchableswithBryan Cranston— but Johnson’s post seems to hint that they made it work.
In the original movie there were three big roles. In our new story there’s now FIVE. Been so damn cool to see all my actor buddies push their projects aside so hopefully they can come play in our world. Should have cool casting announcements this week. Will keep you posted.
We have a ways to go beforeJumanjihits theaters on June 28, 2025. See Johnson’s full Instagram post below.
