While it’s likely that the decision to make a sequel Gnomeo & Juliet can be attributed to the film’s box office success, I like to think that the decision came when it was determined that, even with the 2011 movie in existence, there are still not enough animated movies focused on characters that are actually lawn ornaments come to life. Regardless of the reason behind the decision, Gnomeo & Juliet is getting a sequel, according to Deadline’s report.
Distributed by Touchtone and directed by Kelly Asbury, the original film was a humorous take on Shakespeare’s tragedy Romeo & Juliet, which had animated garden gnomes and other lawn ornaments playing the lead roles. From what Deadline is reporting, the sequel moves the story into mystery territory as gnomes begin to disappear from the English garden where they reside. Gnomeo, Juliet and their friends turn to Sherlock Gnomes, “The greatest ornamental detective.” Though, from the sound of it, this Sherlock may not be the sharpest tool in the shed. The addition of this familiar sounding character explains the title of the sequel: Gnomeo & Juliet: Sherlock Gnomes. It should be interesting to see what kind of amusing twist the film puts on Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic character.
Like the original, the sequel comes from Elton John’s Rocket Pictures, and will be written by Andy Riley and Kevin Cecil. Elton John, who earned himself a Golden Globe nomination for the original film’s song “Hello, Hello,” is set to write new songs for the sequel. Kelly Asbury will not be returning to direct, but per Deadline's report she'll be on board to serve as a creative consultant.
