Paramount Confirms Two New 'Star Trek' Films Are Being Developed

Recently, there’s been a ton of talk about an upcoming “Star Trek” sequel that might or might not be in development with Quentin Tarantino. As we’ve written in the past, the idea of a sequel seemed premature either way, considering that the last film in the franchise, “Star Trek Beyond” didn’t do so hot at the box office. Well, according to Paramount Pictures chairman and CEO Jim Gianopulos, not only is a sequel in the works, but there are actually two!

That’s right, speaking at CinemaCon (via two tweets by Erik Davis of Fandango), Gianopulos confirmed that the studio is working on two separate “Star Trek” sequels. At first, you might be thinking this is completely bonkers, with how ‘Beyond’ performed. However, if you think about it, the plan actually makes sense.

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Just because the studio confirms that two films are being developed doesn’t mean that two films will be produced. In fact, as we’ve reported before, the idea that multiple films were being written for “Star Trek” isn’t actually news. Obviously, one of those two films is Tarantino’s. The other is probably the originally planned sequel that has been reported as being in development for a while now.

It’s probably accurate that the second film is more of a bet against Tarantino’s film actually coming together. Because if Paramount decided to waste all that time and effort on Tarantino’s script, without a backup plan, they would set the franchise back years. Considering that the ensemble is full of working, big-name actors, they can’t just let the franchise sit on the shelf for an extended period of time. Plus, if Tarantino’s film comes together, and is a massive hit, they will already have another film developed and ready to go if they decide to use it.

Ultimately, while its news that Paramount has confirmed what has already been heavily rumored, it doesn’t mean we’re any closer to the fabled “Tarantino Star Trek” that people have been clamoring for. It just means that Paramount is still serious about a “Star Trek” film franchise.