Canadian sales and production company Double Dutch International has announced that it has acquired Craig Fairbrass-starring Villain 2 for the European film market, with the British actor returning to play the role of reformed gangster Eddie Franks.
In the sequel, Franks is shot dead and left alone after being released from prison, and is forced to fight back despite being mortally wounded while protecting his estranged daughter. Franks must uncover the truth behind the ambush while navigating London’s resurgent criminal underworld, unraveling a web of betrayal, family secrets, and rival gang revenge.
“Villains is a franchise in the making,” said Ron Mehring, president and CEO of Double Dutch International. “This is an intense action film, anchored by compelling lead performances, and is poised to bring the next chapter of the Eddie Franks story to international markets.”
Neil Limpaw, whose credits include Little Bone Lodge, will take over the director’s chair from Philippe Barantini, who directed the 2020 original. Sharp House and Vertigo Films are producing in association with Impact Entertainment, with George Russo and Greg Hall returning to write the screenplay.
Jason Maza, Alan Niblo and Ian Sharp will serve as producers, with Fairbrass also serving as executive producer. This project is currently in pre-production.
“I’m excited to take the coaching baton from Philippe Barantini,” said Limpau. “I’ve always been drawn to stories that live in the shadows – morally compromised characters, consequences, survival. ‘Villain 2’ is a story that pushes Eddie to his limits and sees what happens when he fights back. It’s raw, visceral, bold and unrelenting.”
Jason Maza and Ian Sharp of Sharp House Entertainment said, “When Craig came to us with the idea of expanding the Villains universe, we jumped on board right away. We are huge fans of the original and its creators, George and Greg. We are excited to bring this sequel to existing fans and introduce Eddie Franks to a new global audience.”
Alan Niblo of Vertigo Films added, “We’re thrilled to bring Villains 2 to life. It’s a great opportunity to work with Craig Fairbrass. This is a story about redemption, loyalty, and the lengths to go for your family, and we’re excited to explore these themes even deeper with the intensity and grit our audiences have come to expect.”
