Three More ‘Transporter’ Films on the Way
Luc Besson’s EuropaCorp is partnering with China’s Mark Gao’s Fundamental Films to produce three more installments of the “Transporter” franchise.
The two companies, which signed a three-year output deal with Fundamental Films last July, will together produce “Transporter” 4, 5 and 6, which will be budgeted in the $30 million to $40 million range.
On top of co-producing and distributing in China, Fundamental Films will also act as an equity investor on the pics.
“Our deal with Fundamental Films allows us to have four revenue-sharing films distributed theatrically every year in China,” said EuropaCorp CEO Christophe Lambert. One of the three installments will likely lense in China, qualifying it as a French-Chinese co-production.
“We’re excited to team with Fundamental on the next three ‘Transporter’ movies, after the first three were worldwide hits,” Lambert said. He added “Transporter 3,” which Fundamental released in China, was a major commercial success.
The first and second pics, helmed by Louis Leterrier, grossed $43.9 million and $85.1 million worldwide, respectively, and were distributed in multiple territories by Fox. The third opus, directed by Olivier Megaton and handled by Lionsgate, grossed $108.9 million.
“Fox has a first-look on the three pics, while Lionsgate has a second-look,” said Lambert, who would not comment on whether Jason Statham will reprise his role as Frank Martin, a kick-ass Special Forces officer-turned-courier for hire.
Gaul’s EuropaCorp and Fundamental have kicked off development of “Transporter 4.” A helmer has yet to be attached.
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