It's been a long-awaited 20 years, but the cult classic slasher film, Behind the Mask: The Rise of Leslie Vernon, is finally getting its sequel. Director Scott Glosserman, along with the original cast, is returning to the world of Leslie Vernon, and they're bringing some exciting twists and turns with them.
This meta-slasher film, which deconstructs the slasher sub-genre, has left a lasting impression on horror fans, and the announcement of its sequel has sparked a wave of excitement.
The Return of Leslie Vernon
Behind the Mask II: The Return of Leslie Vernon was officially unveiled during a special 20th anniversary screening, with the cast and crew revealing their plans for this highly anticipated follow-up. Glosserman, who wrote the script with David J. Stieve, shared his vision for the sequel, stating, "It's about time. There's no other time to anchor this."
The film will explore the evolution of Leslie Vernon's story, delving into his growth and the impact of time on his character. Stieve added, "The metaphor of the script has always been Leslie's struggle as an artist, reflecting the creative struggles of those involved."
A Tribute and a New Direction
One notable aspect of the sequel is the absence of Scott Wilson, who played a prominent role in the original. Stieve acknowledged the personal loss and revealed their plans to honor Wilson's memory, saying, "Scott Wilson will be there in spirit." This tribute adds an emotional layer to the film, showcasing the impact of time and change on the story and its creators.
Production and Fan Involvement
Paper Street Pictures, led by Aaron B. Koontz and Cameron Burns, is producing the sequel, with Adam F. Goldberg on board as an executive producer. Glosserman emphasized the film's fan-driven nature, stating, "This has always been a fan-driven film, and it still is."
To involve fans further, a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign will be launched to raise part of the budget. Koontz explained, "We're trying to figure out if the fans can help us bring in some high-profile actors." This campaign not only allows fans to contribute financially but also gives them a say in the creative process, potentially influencing the film's direction and adding their favorite actors to the cast.
A Bold Horror Vision
Glosserman's assurance that the film will be made regardless of the crowdfunding campaign's success showcases his dedication to the project. He believes in the story and the potential for growth with fan involvement, stating, "The bigger the audience involvement, the bigger we can make it."
This sequel promises to be a bold and ambitious venture, continuing the unique and meta approach to the slasher genre. With the original cast returning and a dedicated team behind the scenes, Behind the Mask II: The Return of Leslie Vernon is set to deliver a thrilling and thought-provoking horror experience.
As a fan of the original, I'm thrilled to see this story continue and excited to witness the creative choices made by Glosserman and his team. It's a testament to the power of fan engagement and the enduring appeal of well-crafted horror films.
Get ready for a terrifying and reflective journey back into the world of Leslie Vernon!
