Robert Zemeckis Discusses the Unlikelihood of a Jessica Rabbit Sequel

Robert Zemeckis stated on the “Happy Sad Confused” podcast that a sequel to “Who Framed Roger Rabbit?” is unlikely due to the current Disney regime’s stance on character Jessica Rabbit. Changes at Disneyland highlighted a shift in character representation, focusing on a more conservative portrayal of Jessica. Zemeckis reflected on the film’s original appeal to both adults and children, as well as its award recognition.

Robert Zemeckis recently appeared on the “Happy Sad Confused” podcast to discuss his new film, “Here.” During the conversation, he revealed that a sequel script for “Who Framed Roger Rabbit?” exists but is unlikely to be produced due to current Disney standards regarding Jessica Rabbit’s character. Zemeckis commented on the changes made to Jessica’s depiction, noting that she was dressed in a trench coat at Disneyland and stating that the current Disney regime would never greenlight a film featuring her as she was originally designed. In the original 1988 film, Zemeckis combined live-action and animation, setting the story in a fantastical 1947 Hollywood. The movie followed private investigator Eddie Valiant, played by Bob Hoskins, who attempted to clear Roger Rabbit of murder charges, all while interacting with Jessica Rabbit, a character known for her alluring figure. Zemeckis reminisced about their serendipitous timing in creating a classic when Disney was revitalizing its brand. He noted that the film thrived because it catered to both adults and children—an approach he believed would resonate with Walt Disney’s own vision. Zemeckis emphasized that Disney’s timeless vision treated children with respect, ensuring they could understand the nuances within the narrative without feeling condescended. Zemeckis also shared how the Disneyland ride based on “Who Framed Roger Rabbit” underwent revisions in 2021, which included removing Jessica Rabbit’s original outfit in favor of a more subdued detective version clad in a trench coat. The film was celebrated with six Academy Award nominations, winning three, including Best Film Editing and Visual Effects. “Here” is currently being screened in theaters across the nation, and audiences can catch Zemeckis’s complete remarks on the “Happy Sad Confused” podcast for deeper insights.

Robert Zemeckis’s remarks shed light on the evolving landscape of animation and studio decisions surrounding character representation. Jessica Rabbit, a symbol of both allure and complexity in animation history, exemplifies changing societal views regarding character design. The original “Who Framed Roger Rabbit?” was a groundbreaking film, merging live-action with animation and creating a rich narrative set in a world filled with intrigue and humor, ultimately reflecting a time when Disney’s approach allowed for more creative liberties.

Zemeckis’s insights reveal a significant shift within Disney concerning character portrayals, particularly with Jessica Rabbit, a beloved yet controversial figure. His nostalgia for the film’s groundbreaking nature and its resonance with both children and adults captures the essence of what made it a classic. While the future of a sequel seems dim, the legacy of “Who Framed Roger Rabbit?” endures as a testament to bold storytelling and innovative animation.

Original Source: variety.com