Neil Blomkamp, the guy they pretty much should’ve just let direct Halo, is set to direct an untitled science fiction pic for Media Rights Capital. Producer Bill Block, who was first to back Blomkamp financially on District 9, will produce the film which is set to begin production by mid-2010. Blomkamp won over MRC on the basis of his pitch, and will immediately start writing and preparing visual effects. In a great turn by the studio, MRC is giving Blomkamp creative freedom and a production commitment that isn’t contingent on domestic distribution. Also, Peter Jackson will be working independent of Peter Jackson.

“They’re letting me make the film I want to make and that is by far the most important thing here,” Blomkamp said. “The film will hopefully be commercial, but it is very much a singular film, that comes directly from me. `District 9’ was a bit different. I was learning the process then, under Peter Jackson’s wing. He had control, but was awesome enough to let me make the film I wanted to. Bill’s producing this with MRC, so the difference is Pete’s involvement. I’m not particularly interested in massive budget films, or creating huge spectacles that some young directors might be attracted to,” he said. “Hopefully, this will be a bit unique, very much a reflection of me. It is absolutely another science fiction film, quite different from `District 9,’ but some of the blending of genres and the tone might be within the same realm.”

Also, in the article it says that Blomkamp will “certainly” make a District 9 sequel. Is that the first direct confirmation? I mean, though the numbers pretty much speak for themselves — $30 mil against $184 mil — Blomkamp has never outright said “yes.” Directors like Blomkamp and Duncan Jones are creating incredible science-fiction again, films that I feel will come to be highly regarded as classics. Taking a break from D9 will only make it’s return more palpable and fitting, especially for the characters if they choose to continue Wikus’ storyline. I personally can’t wait to see his latest sci-fi venture.

-Brian

Source: http://weblogs.variety.com/bfdealmemo/2009/10/mrc-coins-next-for-district-9-helmer.html