The long-awaited Constantine 2 remains somewhere between Heaven and Hell—a project spoken of in reverence, yet perpetually just out of reach. Nearly twenty years after Keanu Reeves first lit his cigarette as the chain-smoking exorcist John Constantine, fans are still hoping to see him strike that match again. But according to DC Studios co-head James Gunn, the sequel’s return is far from guaranteed.
During a recent interview with BobaTalks, Gunn was asked about Reeves’ hints that a new script draft exists. His response? Cautious but kind. “I’ve discussed it on and off,” Gunn admitted. “I discussed it with Keanu. I think that’s a great group of guys… but I have not read any script yet.” It’s the sort of Hollywood limbo that fans know too well—meetings, interest, even affection—but no tangible movement.
The comments echo Reeves’ own words earlier this year, where he confirmed that the creative team is “still working on it.” The plan, reportedly, is to position the film as an Elseworlds title—outside the main DC Universe continuity. It’s the same sandbox where Joker and The Batman live, and frankly, it’s where Constantine probably belongs. The cynicism, the grit, the moral exhaustion—it all fits better in an isolated universe untouched by superhero synergy.
A Franchise That Refuses to Die
Francis Lawrence, who directed the original 2005 Constantine, is still attached to helm the sequel. Akiva Goldsman returns to write and produce. Their persistence is admirable—this project has survived regime changes at Warner Bros., the DC restructuring, and countless corporate reboots. Lawrence himself has described the stop-start nature of the film’s development as “a casualty of studio turnover.”
Earlier this year, the team finally got a green light to develop a new draft. Reeves teased that the story will follow the same version of Constantine—older, more broken, still battling demons (internal and literal). “He’s tortured even more,” Reeves said with that trademark half-grin. That line alone has been enough to keep hope alive among fans who consider the original film one of DC’s most atmospheric adaptations.
And maybe that’s what makes this sequel linger. The first Constantine, released in February 2005, wasn’t a box office juggernaut—it earned respect slowly, through cult devotion. Over time, it’s become a minor classic in the occult-superhero niche. Reeves’ haunted presence, Tilda Swinton‘s androgynous angel, Djimon Hounsou‘s cynical sorcerer—every performance dripped with mood and menace. The film might not have been faithful to the comics’ English roots, but it carved its own aesthetic: neon noir soaked in theological dread.
Gunn’s Balancing Act
James Gunn’s DC overhaul has been a study in control. He’s both the architect and the gatekeeper, and it’s clear he’s wary of overpromising. His comments about Constantine 2 feel like a reality check: yes, the idea exists; no, it’s not in production. Gunn’s focus remains on the first wave of his “Gods and Monsters” slate—Superman, The Authority, Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow—so an offshoot like Constantine likely falls into the “we’ll get there when we can” category.
Still, his willingness to discuss it at all means it’s not off the table. And maybe that’s enough. Reeves, Lawrence, and Goldsman are still in alignment. The audience is still hungry. The tone and timing might finally make sense for a return.
For now, Constantine remains where he always has—lurking in the shadows, between worlds, waiting for someone to finally open the door.
What Fans Should Remember
- It’s Real, But Early: The sequel exists in conversation and draft form, not yet as a confirmed production.
- Original Team Intact: Reeves, Lawrence, and Goldsman remain committed, which is rare after this many years.
- Elseworlds Path: Like Joker and The Batman, the project is positioned outside the main DCU.
- Creative Patience: Studio reshuffles at Warner Bros. and DC have slowed things, but haven’t killed it.
- Cult Legacy: The 2005 original continues to build reputation—fueling the sequel’s staying power.
FAQ
Why hasn’t Constantine 2 moved forward yet?
Because despite mutual interest, DC Studios hasn’t prioritized it within Gunn’s current slate. The project’s Elseworlds status means it’s separate from mainline DC continuity, which makes timing trickier.
Will Keanu Reeves definitely return as John Constantine?
Yes, if the film gets made. Reeves has expressed strong interest and remains attached alongside Francis Lawrence, but nothing is signed or scheduled.
Is Constantine 2 part of James Gunn’s new DC Universe?
No. It’s planned as an Elseworlds title—its own dark, standalone world, much like Joker or The Batman.
When could Constantine 2 realistically release?
There’s no confirmed date or active production schedule. With only a script draft in development, fans likely face a multi-year wait.
