Celebrating 25 years since its release in 1999, “The Mummy” remains a beloved classic in the action-adventure genre. Directed by Stephen Sommers, the film captivated audiences with its unique blend of horror, humor, and thrilling escapades. Starring Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz, the movie introduced viewers to the mystical world of ancient Egypt and the terrifying curses of its long-forgotten mummies. Its success spawned a sequel, “The Mummy Returns” (2001), and a spinoff-prequel, “The Scorpion King,” featuring Dwayne Johnson in a breakout role.
However, despite the franchise’s enduring popularity, Sommers recently revealed his feelings of being snubbed when it came to the 2017 reboot of “The Mummy,” starring Tom Cruise. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Sommers expressed his disappointment at not being consulted by the filmmakers of the reboot.
When asked if he had been approached for input on the reboot, Sommers responded with a resounding “No.” He went on to explain that he felt insulted by the lack of communication from the writers and director, Alex Kurtzman. Sommers emphasized the importance of common courtesy in such situations, stating that he would have reached out if he were in their position. While he acknowledged that he was occupied with other projects at the time and wasn’t devastated by the oversight, he still found it disappointing.
Reflecting on the original “The Mummy,” Sommers highlighted its roots in the 1932 American pre-Code supernatural horror film and praised the contributions of Fraser and Weisz to the franchise’s success. He also discussed his directorial journey, from his debut with “Catch Me If You Can” (1989) to his adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book” (1994) and his later work on “Odd Thomas” (2013).
Directed by Alex Kurtzman, the 2017 reboot of “The Mummy” featured a new cast led by Tom Cruise, alongside Annabelle Wallis, Sofia Boutella, Jake Johnson, Courtney B. Vance, and Russell Crowe. Despite its star-studded lineup, the film failed to capture the magic of the original and received mixed reviews from both critics and audiences alike.
As “The Mummy” franchise continues to evolve, Sommers’ contributions to its legacy remain undeniable, leaving an indelible mark on the world of cinema.
