Despite its slim runtime (93 minutes) and bare bones cast (it essentially starred just two people, including rising star Scoot McNairy), Gareth Edwards’ remarkable 2010 indie, Monsters, didn’t balk at crafting a mythology that’s primed for expansion (and, in Hollywood-speak, primed for sequels). And though Edwards will not be returning for the film’s sequel, Monsters: The Dark Continent, his structure and ideas appear to be quite present in the new film. At least, if the project’s first synopsis is to be believed.
ShockTillYouDrop (via ComingSoon) has reportedly gotten a hold of the official synopsis for Monsters: The Dark Continent, and it tells us in no uncertain terms that the film will see a return to the “Infected Zone.” The first film introduced us to the area – nearly one half of Mexico bordering the United States – as our protagonists journeyed through it, encountering terrifying creatures who apparently came to Earth six years prior, thanks to a NASA probe that went awry. The film ended, however, with (spoiler alert!) both our heroes and the electricity-hungry creatures reaching American soil. So, if our “monsters” have broken free of their zone (and, indeed, they have), why head right back into the place it all began?
As the synopsis explains it – to kill another human:
Seven years on from the events of Monsters, and the “Infected Zones” have spread worldwide. Humans have been knocked off the top of the food chain, with disparate communities struggling for survival. American soldiers are being sent abroad to protect US interests from the Monsters, but the war is far from being won.
Noah, a haunted soldier with several tours under his belt, is sent on a mission: an American soldier has gone rogue deep in the Infected Zone, and Noah must reach him and take him out. But when Noah’s unit and transport are destroyed, he finds himself with only a young and inexperienced cadet for company – the brother of the man Noah has been sent to kill.
The two soldiers must go on a life-altering journey through the dark heart of monster territory, accompanied by a young local woman to guide them. By the time the three of them reach their goal, they will have been forced to confront the fear that the true monsters on the planet may not be alien after all.
Though Edwards will not be returning as director or screenwriter, he is set to executive produce it. This round has been penned by Jay Basu (Song of Songs) and will be directed by Tom Green in his feature debut (he’s best known for his work on UK hit show Misfits, which is an encouraging fit for the project).
If you’ve yet to see Edwards’ original film, Monsters is currently available both home video release and on Netflix Instant Watch. Give it a spin.
Monsters: Dark Continent will open sometime in 2013.
Related Topics: Monsters
