Solomon Kane: Will There Be A Sequel?

Hey guys! Let's dive into the world of Solomon Kane, that brooding, Puritan swordsman created by Robert E. Howard, the same genius behind Conan the Barbarian. The Solomon Kane movie, released in 2009, had James Purefoy stepping into the boots of this complex character. But the big question on everyone's mind is: will there ever be a Solomon Kane sequel? Let's explore the history, reception, and possibilities of seeing Kane back on the big screen.

The Origins of Solomon Kane

Before we get into the sequel talk, let's take a quick trip back to where it all began. Robert E. Howard introduced Solomon Kane in the pulp magazines of the 1920s and 30s. Unlike Conan's straightforward, muscle-and-steel approach, Kane is driven by a dark past and a burning desire to right wrongs. He's a Puritan wanderer, battling not just physical foes but also his inner demons. Howard's stories are filled with gothic horror, supernatural elements, and a constant struggle between good and evil. This rich backstory is what makes Solomon Kane such a compelling character, and it's why fans were excited when a movie adaptation was announced.

The 2009 Film Adaptation

The Solomon Kane movie, directed by Michael J. Bassett, attempted to bring Howard's vision to life. James Purefoy, known for his roles in "Rome" and "The Following," embodied Kane's grim determination and inner turmoil. The film tells the origin story of Kane, transforming him from a ruthless mercenary into a man seeking redemption. After a violent encounter with a demon, Kane renounces violence, only to be drawn back into the fight when a young woman is kidnapped by an evil sorcerer. The movie is packed with action, dark visuals, and supernatural elements, staying true to the tone of Howard's stories. While the film had its merits, it also faced its share of challenges.

Reception and Box Office Performance

So, how did the Solomon Kane movie fare with audiences and critics? The reception was mixed. Some praised Purefoy's performance and the film's faithfulness to the source material's dark atmosphere. Others criticized the movie for its clichéd plot and uneven pacing. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a rating of 62%, with the consensus being that it's a decent action-horror flick but doesn't quite reach its full potential. Commercially, the movie wasn't a blockbuster. It had a relatively modest budget of around $40 million and grossed approximately $16 million in the United States. Worldwide, it fared slightly better, but it wasn't the kind of runaway success that would immediately greenlight a sequel. This lukewarm reception and box office performance certainly played a role in the subsequent lack of movement on the Solomon Kane front.

The Sequel Question: Will It Ever Happen?

Okay, let's get to the heart of the matter: will there be a Solomon Kane sequel? As of now, there are no concrete plans for a sequel. However, that doesn't mean it's entirely off the table. Several factors could influence the possibility of a Solomon Kane sequel.

Factors Influencing a Sequel

• Fan Demand: One of the most significant drivers for any sequel is fan demand. If there's enough buzz and a vocal fanbase clamoring for more Solomon Kane, studios might take notice. Social media campaigns, petitions, and online discussions can all contribute to demonstrating that demand.
• The Popularity of Robert E. Howard's Work: The enduring popularity of Robert E. Howard's creations, including Conan, could also play a role. With the success of new Conan adaptations and other sword-and-sorcery properties, there might be renewed interest in exploring other Howard characters. If studios see a trend, they might be more willing to invest in a Solomon Kane sequel.
• James Purefoy's Interest: The return of James Purefoy as Solomon Kane would undoubtedly be a major draw for fans. Purefoy's portrayal was one of the highlights of the 2009 film, and his continued interest in the character could sway the decision-making process. In interviews, Purefoy has expressed his fondness for the role and his willingness to return if the script and circumstances are right.
• Financial Viability: Ultimately, the decision to make a sequel comes down to money. Studios need to be convinced that a Solomon Kane sequel would be a profitable venture. This involves assessing the potential audience, the cost of production, and the potential return on investment. A strong script, a talented director, and a well-thought-out marketing plan would all be crucial in making the case for financial viability.

Potential Storylines for a Sequel

If a Solomon Kane sequel were to happen, what could the storyline be? Robert E. Howard wrote several Solomon Kane stories, providing plenty of material for adaptation. Here are a few possibilities:

• "Red Shadows": This story introduces Kane's recurring nemesis, the sorcerer N'Longa. Adapting this story would allow the sequel to delve deeper into Kane's battles against supernatural forces and explore his complex relationship with N'Longa.
• "Skulls in the Stars": In this tale, Kane confronts a terrifying creature in the English countryside. This could offer a more gothic and horror-focused storyline, playing up the darker elements of Howard's stories.
• "The Hills of the Dead": Kane encounters cannibals and ancient curses in Africa. This setting would provide a visually striking backdrop and allow the sequel to explore themes of colonialism and cultural conflict.
• Original Story: The sequel could also take a different route and create an original story based on Howard's character and world. This would give the filmmakers more creative freedom but also require a strong understanding of what makes Solomon Kane unique.

Fan Hopes and Expectations

So, what do fans want to see in a Solomon Kane sequel? Here are a few key expectations:

• Faithfulness to the Source Material: Fans want the sequel to stay true to the spirit of Robert E. Howard's stories. This means capturing the dark, gothic atmosphere, the complex moral dilemmas, and the supernatural elements that define Solomon Kane.
• Character Development: Fans want to see Kane continue to evolve as a character. He's not just a warrior; he's a man grappling with his past and striving for redemption. Exploring his inner struggles and his relationships with other characters would add depth and complexity to the story.
• Action and Horror: Solomon Kane is a blend of action and horror, and fans want to see both elements done well. The fight scenes should be gritty and realistic, and the horror elements should be genuinely unsettling. Effective use of practical effects and atmospheric visuals would enhance the overall experience.
• A Compelling Villain: A great hero needs a great villain, and fans want to see a memorable antagonist in the sequel. Whether it's N'Longa or another powerful sorcerer, the villain should pose a significant threat to Kane and challenge his beliefs.

Conclusion: Keeping the Hope Alive

In conclusion, while there are no immediate plans for a Solomon Kane sequel, the possibility remains. The enduring popularity of Robert E. Howard's work, the potential for compelling storylines, and the continued interest of James Purefoy all contribute to keeping the hope alive. For fans who want to see Kane return to the big screen, the best thing to do is to continue showing their support and making their voices heard. Who knows? With enough passion and persistence, we might just see Solomon Kane rise again.