Amazon Gears Up for Blade Runner 2099 Production with Jonathan Van Tulleken as Director in New Location

Spoiler Alert: This article contains spoilers. Proceed with caution if you have not watched the show/movie.

Amazon is set to bring the iconic Blade Runner franchise back to life with its upcoming series "Blade Runner 2099," directed by Jonathan Van Tulleken. This news, first reported by Deadline, marks a significant development in the Blade Runner saga, seven years after Denis Villeneuve's "Blade Runner 2049" captivated audiences worldwide.

Jonathan Van Tulleken at the Helm

Jonathan Van Tulleken, renowned for his directorial work on the first two episodes of FX's "Shōgun," is now tasked with leading the first two episodes of "Blade Runner 2099." Van Tulleken steps in for Jeremy Podeswa, who had to withdraw due to scheduling conflicts exacerbated by the WGA strike. This change in directorial leadership signifies a fresh vision for the series as it prepares to embark on production.

A New Production Home

Originally slated for production in Belfast, the series faced delays due to the WGA strike, pushing the timeline to spring 2024. In a strategic move, Alcon, the studio behind the series, has now relocated production to Prague, Czech Republic. Prague's growing reputation as a hub for major sci-fi series, including Apple TV+'s "Foundation," makes it an ideal backdrop for the Blade Runner universe.

The Creative Force

"Blade Runner 2099" is produced by Alcon Entertainment and Scott Free Productions, with Ridley Scott, the visionary director of the original 1982 "Blade Runner" movie, serving as an executive producer. The series aims to extend the narrative and visual legacy of the Blade Runner universe. Silka Luisa will serve as writer, executive producer, and showrunner, ensuring the series aligns with the franchise's esteemed history. The project also sees the return of Michael Green, writer of "Blade Runner 2049," as a non-writing executive producer.

Expanding the Blade Runner Universe

Alcon's acquisition of the Blade Runner franchise rights in 2011 set the stage for the continuation and expansion of this beloved sci-fi universe. With "Blade Runner 2049" and the anime series "Blade Runner: Black Lotus," Alcon has demonstrated a commitment to exploring new narratives within the Blade Runner world. "Blade Runner 2099" promises to be another exciting chapter in this ongoing saga.

With filming set to begin in April, fans of the franchise and newcomers alike are eagerly awaiting what "Blade Runner 2099" will bring to the storied Blade Runner universe. Under Jonathan Van Tulleken's direction and with a talented team behind the scenes, the series is poised to be a significant addition to the sci-fi genre.

Source: Deadline

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