In a surprising twist that has both fans and critics buzzing, Jeffrey Dean Morgan is set to reprise his role as NYPD detective Jacob Kanon in the much-anticipated sequel to The Postcard Killings. Despite the original film’s rocky reception, its success on Netflix has paved the way for another installment, promising even more twists and turns across the scenic landscapes of Europe.
A Fresh Yet Daunting Start
The original film, The Postcard Killings, showcased Morgan’s character as he delved into the brutal murder of his daughter during her honeymoon in Europe. The sequel, dubbed The Postcard Killer, heightens the stakes with Kanon’s ex-wife being abducted by a new, even more sinister antagonist. This fresh plotline will undoubtedly draw audiences back into the dark and thrilling world Morgan navigates.
With shooting locations spanning London, Madrid, Florence, and Latvia, the sequel aims to capture the essence of Europe’s stunning vistas while keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. Director Renny Harlin, known for his work on high-octane films like Die Hard 2, takes the helm, promising a film that intertwines Hitchcockian suspense with the visual flair of Brian De Palma.
“Every page of this screenplay is channeling Hitchcock and Brian de Palma. This is the genre I’ve loved since childhood. Our sexy European locations will provide a backdrop for a visual feast.”
Overcoming the Past
The decision to proceed with a sequel has been met with mixed feelings. The original film did not fare well with critics, earning a meager 24% on Rotten Tomatoes, and was similarly received with lukewarm enthusiasm by audiences. Viewers criticized the film for its lackluster excitement and cumbersome script. However, the filmmakers are betting on the sequel to win over skeptics by doubling down on what worked and reinventing what didn’t.
The choice of Renny Harlin as the new director could be the turning point the franchise needs. Harlin’s experience in crafting engaging and visually captivating narratives could breathe new life into the storyline and reinvigorate the series.
Behind the Scenes
The production team remains optimistic about the sequel’s potential. Miriam Segal of Good Films Collective leads the production, supported by a robust team of executive producers including industry veterans from the first film and newcomers eager to leave their mark.
#TheWalkingDead stars Lauren Cohan and Jeffrey Dean Morgan say #TWDDeadCity could crossover with other Walking Dead spinoffs: "The door is open." https://t.co/XyQcl68Kfq pic.twitter.com/bxXQytFAzn
— TWD on ComicBook.com (@NewsOfTheDead) January 19, 2023
Danis Tanović, director of the first film, shared his reflections on the challenges of adapting such a complex story for an international audience. His insights reveal the delicate balance filmmakers must strike between artistic vision and audience expectations.
“It’s funny, when you know what you’re shooting, when you know your screenplay and then you have actors, you can somehow see better the performance than when you speak the language because you’re not focused on the language, you’re focused on them.”
Looking Ahead
While the official release date and complete cast list remain under wraps, anticipation is building. The filmmakers’ commitment to refining their approach, coupled with the charismatic leads and breathtaking European settings, might just redefine the narrative’s trajectory.
As The Postcard Killer gears up for production this fall, both newcomers to the series and returning fans have a lot to look forward to. Will this sequel surpass its predecessor’s achievements and overcome its pitfalls? Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: the adventure that awaits is sure to captivate and thrill.