He’s said there’s a ‘good script’ ready
The director of Who Framed Roger Rabbit? has said a sequel won’t happen because Disney won’t use Jessica Rabbit in the same way.
Released in cinemas on 22 June 1988, Who Framed Roger Rabbit? has remained something of an anomaly in Hollywood, perfectly mixing animation with live action in a very entertaining way (sorry, Space Jam fans), while keeping its jokes perfectly spread out to be enjoyed by both the kids and the adults in the audience.
The $50 million production was a commercial and critical hit. It made over $351 million at the box office, won three Oscars and an additional Special Achievement Award at that year’s Academy Awards, and is still sitting pretty with 97 per cent on Rotten Tomatoes.
At a time when it seems every other film being released is either a remake, reboot or a sequel, Who Framed Roger Rabbit? feels like the perfect candidate for a follow-up.
However, director Robert Zemeckis reckons we’ll never see a sequel, even though a script is ready. The reason for this? Jessica Rabbit.
One of the most recognisable characters in animation history, Jessica Rabbit was known for her sultry appearance, flirtatious behaviour and allure.
However, in recent years, Disney has seemingly given her a makeover and toned down her look. On theme parks attractions for example, she has been depicted in a long trench coat.
Speaking to the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Zemeckis said Disney “can’t make a movie with Jessica in it.”
He said: “There’s a good script [for a sequel] at Disney, but here’s the thing: The current Disney would never make Roger Rabbit today. They can’t make a movie with Jessica in it.
“The sequel script isn’t ever going to see the light of day as good as it is. I mean look what they did to Jessica at the theme park. They trussed her up in a trench coach.”
Zemeckis reckons this changes were a sign that Disney wouldn’t feel comfortable making a character like Jessica Rabbit nowadays.
He believes this stance stands in the way of any new Roger Rabbit films being made.
