It’s been out less than a week, but Universal and Illumination Entertainment already are negotiating a deal for a sequel to its hit animated feature film Despicable Me.
As reported on Deadline New York, the success of the movie is giving the studio a big boost by being a much-needed breakout hit. The studio is reportedly in talks with Illumination CEO Chris Meledandri, and writers Cinco Paul and Ken Daurio.
The success of its first film is also a big deal for Illumination and Meledandri, who set up the company three years ago after leaving his post as president of Fox Animation. Despicable Me is its first feature release.
Illumination has several other projects in the works that could help transform Universal into an animation powerhouse. Among the projects in the works are Hop, which is due out April 1; Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax; and Flanimals. The studio also has the animated version of The Addams Family that Tim Burton is directing.
Despicable Me grossed $56.4 million in its opening weekend ‘ a figure revised down from initial estimates of $60 million but still double many industry forecasts.
