Sony Pictures confirmed Gillan’s involvement in the film, which already features Johnson in a lead role, along with Jack Black, Kevin Hart, and Nick Jonas. The film is expected to begin production next month.
In a post on Facebook announcing Gillan’s involvement in the film, Johnson had high praise for the actress, and indicated that the film will be “a continuation of the awesome Jumanji story we love” instead of a remake of the 1995 film of the same name that starred Robin Williams.
“Yes, this is the girl who is so badass, she shaved her freaking head for Guardians of the Galaxy,” wrote Johnson. “We start production next month in Hawaii, and as many of you already know, this isn’t a remake or reboot, but a continuation of the awesome Jumanji story we love.”
Set to be directed by Bad Teacher and Sex Tape filmmaker Jake Kasdan, Jumanji is based on script penned by High Fidelity and Con Air screenwriter Scott Rosenberg. The original, 1995 film was inspired by Chris Van Allsburg’s 1985 children’s book of the same name, which told the story of a group of children who discover that the strange board game they’re playing has actually thrust them into a very real adventure filled with terrifying jungle creatures, man-eating plants, and other threats.
The Rocketeer and Captain America: The First Avenger director Joe Johnston helmed the 1995 film, which earned $262 million worldwide the year it was released.
The new Jumanji is currently scheduled to hit theaters July 28, 2017.
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