Oh, how we laughed at the Hansel & Gretel trailer. How we scoffed and glanced sideways at Gemma Arterton and Jeremy Renner and loudly guffawed at their decision to take part in the dreadful-looking movie, with its schlocky effects and dubious premise. And oh, how we are swallowing our words and eating our hats right now, as news comes in that not only has Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters raked in over $200 million, but plans are under way to make a sequel.

A press release has revealed that Paramount Pictures, Metro-Goldwyn Mayer and MTV Films have begun working on a sequel to Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters, which will feature Will Ferrell, Adam McKay and Kevin Messick to return as producers, along with Beau Flynn. The joint announcement does not go so far as to reveal what viewers can expect from the sequel or, indeed, who will star in it.

The original movie, which became a surprise financial success, was written by Tommy Wirkola and is a twist on the classic fairy tale of Hansel & Gretel, catching up with the two siblings when they have come of age as fierce bounty hunters, tracking down witches. The movie opened at number one in 39 territories and has so far earned in advance of $205 million. The movie has found some of its biggest successes in Brazil, Russia and Mexico. 

Watch the trailer for the original Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters

Jeremy Renner
Jeremy Renner: will he star in the Hansel & Gretel sequel?