Explaining Ridley Scott’s 4 Upcoming Movies

Renowned filmmaker Ridley Scott is gearing up for a series of thrilling new projects, including a Bee Gees biopic, a fresh Alien installment, and a potential Gladiator III. Scott’s relentless work ethic has become legendary; he seldom takes a breather. Even as he wraps up one ambitious film, planning for the next is already in motion. Currently, his focus is on Gladiator II, a grand historical epic that showcases his signature blockbuster prowess. Just last year, he dazzled audiences with another historical spectacle, Napoleon, and in 2021, he released both The Last Duel and House of Gucci in rapid succession.

Unlike many directors who prefer to dedicate themselves to one project at a time, Scott thrives on a multi-project setup. His most iconic works have often been crafted swiftly, emphasizing his creative momentum. Currently, Scott is poised to commence filming on two new films next year, in addition to having four projects simmering in development, promising an exciting landscape for cinema enthusiasts.

4 The Dog Stars

Scott’s latest effort is The Dog Stars, an adaptation of Peter Heller’s 2012 post-apocalyptic novel. The story follows two men navigating survival in a decimated American society following a devastating pandemic. The screenplay, crafted by Mark L. Smith, known for his work on The Revenant, is being developed under the auspices of 20th Century Studios. Production on this anticipated project is scheduled to kick off in spring 2025.

Initially, Scott hinted at reuniting with Gladiator II star Paul Mescal for the lead role; however, Mescal’s commitments to a Beatles biopic directed by Sam Mendes cast doubt on this reunion. Mescal’s role in this ambitious project, which features notable actors portraying each member of the iconic band, may lead Scott to explore new casting options for The Dog Stars.

Despite the implications of a pandemic-themed film after recent global events, Scott is known for embracing challenges and producing visually stunning works, boasting a remarkable history of successful science fiction films. His capability to tackle a narrative centered on survival and societal collapse makes this project a compelling venture for both him and audiences.

3 Bee Gees Biopic

Following The Dog Stars, Scott will venture into new territory with a biopic of the legendary Bee Gees. This film, under the auspices of Paramount Pictures, aims to depict the brothers Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb’s extraordinary rise to fame during the disco era of the 1970s. The resounding success of films like Bohemian Rhapsody has revitalized Hollywood’s interest in musical biopics, and Scott’s participation is a testament to the genre’s growing appeal.

Scott is collaborating with screenwriters who have notable experiences in crafting biopics, including John Logan, known for his previous work with Scott, and Joe Penhall, recognized for his acclaimed series Mindhunter. As the film does not yet have a title, production is anticipated to begin shortly after The Dog Stars in September 2025, with shooting locations set in London and Miami. It appears that Scott is preparing for a seamless transition from one project to the next, indicating a tightly woven production schedule.

2 Gladiator III

Lucius Verus (Paul Mescal) rubs sand in between his hands and looks into the distance in Gladiator II — Image via Paramount Pictures

As Gladiator II finds its footing at the box office, Scott is already contemplating the potential for a third installment. While opinions vary on the necessity of a sequel, the film’s successful reception has opened the door for further adventures in this epic saga. Following the events of Gladiator II, Lucius’s ascension to the Roman throne presents a ripe opportunity for exploring the complexities of rule and governance.

During promotional activities for Gladiator II, Scott revealed he has drafted the initial eight pages of a screenplay for Gladiator III, describing it as a strong foundation for the sequel. Intriguingly, he hinted that this sequel might diverge from the arena’s bloody battles to delve into political machinations as Lucius navigates his new responsibilities.

Scott’s comparisons of Lucius’s character evolution to Michael Corleone from The Godfather saga suggest a profound narrative depth, with tensions arising from power and moral dilemmas. Although in its early development stages, Gladiator III may not be Scott’s immediate project but will likely follow closely behind.

Despite the financial success of Gladiator II, its hefty budget raises questions about the studio’s willingness to greenlight another film in the franchise. The industry’s response will ultimately dictate the future of Gladiator III.

1 New Alien Movie

A Xenomorph on top of a spaceship in Alien: Covenant

In addition to his slate of projects, Scott is also reportedly developing a new installment in the Alien franchise, driven by the recent commercial triumph of Alien: Romulus. This upcoming film is expected to operate independently from the aforementioned sequel, which is already in production. Instead, Scott’s new chapter could serve as a conclusion to the prequel trilogy he began with Prometheus and Alien: Covenant.

The prior film left viewers at a pivotal juncture, with the enigmatic android David orchestrating a chilling fate for the surviving crew. As Scott takes on this revitalization of the Alien universe, there is speculation about whether this next installment will tie directly to the established prequel narrative, especially as Prometheus garners newfound appreciation within the film community.

As Scott approaches 87, he remains a prolific force in filmmaking, unlike many directors contemplating retirement. His determination to bring forth compelling narratives continues to captivate audiences, with four exciting blockbuster projects lined up in the coming years.

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