Home / Arts and Entertainment / Willy's Back: 'Free Willy' Gets a Modern Reboot
Willy's Back: 'Free Willy' Gets a Modern Reboot
10 Jul
Summary
- A new 'Free Willy' movie is being developed by screenwriters.
- The original 1993 film grossed $153.7 million worldwide.
- The franchise has inspired activism for animal welfare.
The iconic 1993 family film 'Free Willy' is being reimagined for contemporary audiences by screenwriters Mary-Margaret Kunze and Jade Halley Bartlett. This new iteration aims to capture the spirit of the original while introducing it to a new generation. The project is being developed by a production company co-founded by filmmakers Anthony and Joe Russo.
The original 'Free Willy' achieved significant success upon its release, earning $153.7 million globally against a $20 million budget. Its impact extended beyond cinema, with its theme song charting on the Billboard Hot 100 and the film itself dispelling myths about orcas and promoting animal welfare activism.
Kunze and Bartlett are established creative partners, with Bartlett having recently made her directorial debut in 2024. Their combined experience in film and television, including work on other notable projects, brings fresh perspectives to the 'Free Willy' franchise. Warner Bros. is overseeing the development of this reboot, with Jesse Ehrman and Cate Adams guiding the project.
