Reportedly, a sequel to the beloved 2004 indie comedy Napoleon Dynamite is in the early stages of development at Searchlight Pictures. The original film, directed by Jared Hess, became a cult phenomenon with its deadpan humor and offbeat characters in rural Idaho. Despite a modest budget of $400,000, it grossed $46 million worldwide. Those are some impressive numbers!
Napoleon Dynamite Returning
Director Jared Hess, fresh off directing the upcoming Minecraft movie, reportedly has the leverage to bring the sequel to life. Original cast members, including Jon Heder (Napoleon) and Efren Ramirez (Pedro), have expressed interest in returning, provided Hess is involved.
Heder has mentioned he’d be open to a “more raw and edgy” take on the characters. Ramirez has even jokingly improvised a sequel idea where Pedro is married to Summer, has five kids, and owns a bakery, while Kip becomes a cage fighter, and Rico pursues a new get-rich-quick scheme. I don’t know about you, but I hope that Kip and LaFawnduh are still married. “Always and Forever”, right?
While the original film wasn’t envisioned as a franchise, its enduring popularity through DVD sales and streaming has kept the possibility of a sequel alive. Whether the unique charm of Napoleon Dynamite can be recaptured remains to be seen.
Possible Returning Favorites
Beyond Jon Heder and Efren Ramirez, other original cast members have also hinted at a potential return. Jon Gries, who played Uncle Rico, has humorously speculated on his character’s present-day social media antics. Tina Majorino, the original Deb, and Aaron Ruell (Kip) are also possibilities.
Director Jared Hess has a distinct comedic style, evident in his other films like Nacho Libre (starring Jack Black) and Gentlemen Broncos. A sequel would likely retain his signature deadpan humor and quirky characterizations. While a release date is far from being announced, the fact that discussions are underway signals a genuine interest from the studio and key creative figures. The enduring fanbase of Napoleon Dynamite remains hopeful that the sequel will capture the spirit of the original while offering a fresh and funny take on the beloved character’s life. (I wonder how Grandma’s coccyx has healed from her day at the dunes.)
Jon Heder has also mentioned the possibility of a darker, more “real-time” approach to the sequel, imagining Napoleon dealing with adult responsibilities. This suggests that the potential sequel might explore the characters’ evolution beyond their high school years, offering a new dynamic for the audience.
Napoleon Dynamite: Ligers, Tater Tots, and Deb
In the sleepy town of Preston, Idaho, awkward teen Napoleon Dynamite navigates the treacherous waters of high school with his equally quirky older brother Kip and their perpetually scheming Uncle Rico. Napoleon’s life revolves around drawing ligers, avoiding gym class, and pining after the sweet-yet-socially-oblivious Deb.
When charismatic Pedro Sanchez arrives, Napoleon finds an unlikely ally and throws his support behind Pedro’s improbable campaign for class president against the popular but mean Summer Wheatley. Their campaign involves questionable dance routines, homemade posters, and a serious lack of fundraising.
Meanwhile, Kip finds online love with LaFawnduh, and Rico’s get-rich-quick schemes involving Tupperware and breast enhancement pills hilariously backfire. The film culminates in a school assembly talent show where Napoleon’s surprisingly impressive dance moves help secure Pedro’s victory, solidifying the power of friendship, questionable fashion choices, and believing in yourself, even if you’re a total weirdo. Gosh!
