‘Weapons’ Prequel Focusing on Amy Madigan’s Character in Early Development
A potential origin story exploring the backstory of Gladys Lilly, the central antagonist in the critically acclaimed film Weapons, is reportedly under discussion with director Zach Cregger. The news arrives as Weapons continues to resonate with audiences and critics following its release earlier this month.
The Hollywood Reporter first reported that Cregger is in early talks with Warner Bros. Pictures and New Line Cinema regarding the prequel project. Weapons, starring Julia Garner, Josh Brolin, Alden Ehrenreich, Austin Abrams, Benedict Wong, Amy Madigan, and Cary Christopher, has garnered both critical praise and commercial success with its unique, non-linear narrative centered around the mysterious disappearance of a classroom of children.
The proposed prequel would delve into the perspective of Gladys Lilly, portrayed by Amy Madigan, who serves as the film’s primary antagonist. While Weapons intentionally avoids directly revealing her motivations, the prequel aims to explore the events that led to her involvement in the children’s disappearance. According to sources familiar with the project, Lilly’s backstory was initially included in earlier drafts of the screenplay but was ultimately removed by Cregger due to concerns about the film’s length.
Currently, no formal agreements are in place for the prequel, and a release timeline remains undetermined. Cregger’s schedule is already packed with other projects, including a forthcoming adaptation of Resident Evil and an original film titled Flood.
Speaking about the Resident Evil project, Cregger recently confirmed that Austin Abrams will take the lead role in an original story. “It’s gonna be not at all like Barbarian and Weapons. It’s going to be a rock ’em, sock ’em [movie],” Cregger explained. “It’s for me to play and turn my brain off and just get crazy with the camera. Austin Abrams is gonna be my guy. Austin is the movie. We have an amazing thing together. It’s a weird, fun, wild story.” He further clarified his approach to the franchise, stating, “I’m not going to tell Leon’s story, because Leon’s story is told in the games. Fans already have that.” Cregger previously cautioned fans of the video game series that his adaptation may diverge significantly from established lore.
The potential Weapons prequel represents a significant expansion of the film’s universe, offering audiences a deeper understanding of the forces at play in the original story. While still in the early stages of development, the project underscores the growing demand for Cregger’s distinctive brand of psychological horror.
