After 16 years, the horror cult classic Jennifer’s Body may finally be on the brink of raising the hell it deserved. Back in 2009, Karyn Kusama’s devilish film debuted to icy reviews and was largely overlooked, thanks in part to a marketing campaign that centered on sex appeal instead of its deeper feminist themes. Fast forward to today, modern audiences have reappraised the film, recognizing it as a much richer exploration of women reclaiming their power in a world that seeks to exploit them—all while having a bloody good time.
The prospect of a sequel has never felt more tangible. With both Cody and Amanda Seyfried expressing interest in revisiting Jennifer and Needy’s story, anticipation builds. Current insights from Kusama confirm that a script is in the works, with tantalizing hints of what Cody has in mind. “I know she’s working on it right now, and I’m very excited to hear what comes of it,” Kusama mentioned, adding that it sounds “fun and crazy like the first film.”
The original Jennifer’s Body took audiences on a wild ride, featuring the bloody aftermath of a band’s desperate attempt to claim superstardom by sacrificing a “virgin”—namely, Jennifer herself—to Satan. However, when they discover she wasn’t a virgin, the real chaos begins: Jennifer rises as a demon-possessed teenager, seducing and devouring the flesh of her male classmates. This blend of horror and dark humor is what has made the film resonate over the years.
Kusama Is Thrilled By ‘Jennifer’s Body’s Cult Classic Status
If you look at the challenges of making a Jennifer’s Body 2 in today’s landscape, it’s heartening to see the film finally hitting home with audiences, even if delayed from its original intent. Kusama expressed gratitude for how the film has found its audience in a “different timeline” than expected. “I’m just so thankful that the work continues to speak to people,” she reflected, highlighting her contentment with the film’s enduring legacy.
Diablo Cody’s impressive catalog includes hits like Juno and The United States of Tara. Nevertheless, Jennifer’s Body arguably casts the longest shadow in her oeuvre today. Its impact is so pronounced that it even received a nod in Benito Skinner’s popular queer comedy series Overcompensating, signaling its continued relevance. For Kusama, the recognition has been particularly fulfilling. “The idea that Jennifer’s Body would be somebody’s Godfather, that just tickles me all the way down to my toes,” she said, offering insight into the joy that surrounding recognition brings.
Fans are keenly interested in how a sequel would unfold, especially in light of the original’s climax, where Needy becomes more assertive after taking on some of Jennifer’s demonic powers. This transformation suggests plenty of potential plot hooks for a sequel—from Needy’s escape from a psychiatric clinic to her quest for retribution against Low Shoulder, the band responsible for her friend’s fate. Such narrative continuance isn’t just fodder for fan theories; it also aligns with contemporary themes of female empowerment and revenge against those who exploit.
As efforts to bring the sequel to life continue, enthusiasm remains high among the original creators. Cody has stated, “I am not done with Jennifer’s Body,” signaling her commitment to ensuring the sequel is meaningful and financially backed. The duo’s past synergy and shared vision promise an intriguing follow-up that can capture both new and old fans alike.
Stay tuned to Collider for more updates on the potential Jennifer’s Body sequel as Kusama and Cody work to make it a reality.