Warner Bros. Developing "Free Willy" Reboot with AGBO Producing
Warner Bros.
is reportedly developing a reimagining of the classic 1993 family adventure film, “Free Willy.” The project is set to be produced by Anthony and Joe Russo’s AGBO, bringing a new creative vision to the beloved story of an orphaned boy and a captive orca.
This development signals a potential revival for a franchise that resonated deeply with audiences and inspired real-world activism.
Mary-Margaret Kunze and Jade Halley Bartlett have been selected to write the screenplay for the upcoming movie.
The duo previously collaborated on “Miller’s Girl,” with Bartlett writing and directing, and Kunze producing.
Bartlett also made the Black List in 2016 for her adaptation of her original play, and again in 2017 for “Mad.” Her recent work includes creating the Netflix series “Icebreaker.” Kunze's resume includes executive producer roles on projects like “The Boroughs” and “The Thing About Pam,” as well as a term as a creative executive at Marvel Television.
The original “Free Willy” was a global success, grossing $153.7 million worldwide against a $20 million budget.
Its impact extended beyond the box office, with Michael Jackson’s theme song “Will You Be There” becoming a top 10 hit and going platinum.
The film, which starred an orca named Keiko, also played a significant role in dispelling myths about killer whales and fostering activism against their captivity.
The franchise previously expanded with multiple theatrical sequels, an animated television series, and a direct-to-video continuation.
AGBO’s Angela Russo-Otstot, Michael Disco, and Kassee Whiting are producing the film, with executive producers including the Russo brothers and Lauren Shuler Donner, who has been involved with the franchise since its inception.
Courtney Baker is co-producing, while Jesse Ehrman and Cate Adams are overseeing the project for Warner Bros.
The news of this developing project was first reported by THR.
Key points
- Warner Bros. is reportedly developing a reimagining of the 1993 family adventure film, “Free Willy.”
- Anthony and Joe Russo’s AGBO is slated to produce the new movie.
- Mary-Margaret Kunze and Jade Halley Bartlett have been tapped to write the screenplay for the project.