Warner Bros. and Russo Brothers' AGBO Team for New 'Free Willy' Movie

Warner Bros. is developing a reimagining of the 1993 family adventure film "Free Willy," with Anthony and Joe Russo's production company AGBO producing. Screenwriters Mary-Margaret Kunze and Jade Halley Bartlett have been tapped to write the screenplay, according to both Variety and The Hollywood Reporter.

2 sources

VarietyWarner Bros. Developing 'Free Willy' Reimagining with Russo Brothers' AGBOThe Hollywood Reporter‘Free Willy’ Reimagining Set at Warner Bros., Russo Bros’ AGBO (Exclusive)

The original film, which told the story of an orphaned boy who befriends a captive orca, was a major hit. Variety reported that it grossed $153.7 million worldwide on a $20 million budget, and its Michael Jackson theme song became a top 10 hit. The project aims to update that beloved tale for a new generation.

"Warner Bros. Pictures has hired screenwriters Mary-Margaret Kunze and Jade Halley Bartlett to write a reimagining of the 1993 film 'Free Willy.'"

DeadlineWarner Bros. Taps Kunze and Bartlett to Write 'Free Willy' Reimagining with AGBO

Deadline further reported that the project is being produced by Angela Russo-Otstot, Michael Disco, and Kassee Whiting, with Anthony and Joe Russo serving as executive producers. The original film launched a franchise that included sequels and an animated TV series, giving the new take a built-in audience of nostalgic fans.