Summary
Will Smithis returning to science-fiction as his next blockbuster movie,Resistor, is announced afterBad Boys: Ride or Die’s success. Since Smith gained greater recognition as a leading man for the originalBad Boysfrom 1995, he has starred in a series of popular sci-fi films, includingMen in Black,Independence Day,I, Robot, andGemini Man.Smith’s most recent movieisBad Boys: Ride or Die, which was released in theaters on June 7 and has made over $218 million worldwide to date.
Now, followingBad Boys: Ride or Die’s success, the star is returning to sci-fi for his next blockbuster movie. According toDeadline,Smith is attached to star in Sony’s sci-fi thriller,Resistor, based on the 2014 bookInfluxby Daniel Suarez, with the script written by Zak Olkewicz (Bullet Train) and Eric Singer (Top Gun: Maverick). Though plot details are under wraps, the novel follows a physician who, after discovering a gravity-reflecting device, faces imprisonment by the Bureau of Technology Control, a covert organization that suppresses technical advancements to prevent social upheaval.
His Reputation Was Damaged By The Oscars Slap
At the 2022 Academy Awards, shortly beforeSmith won an OscarforKing Richard, the actor stormed the stage and slapped presenter Chris Rock in retaliation to the comedian’s unscripted joke referencing his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. The incident received considerable media attention and backlash, leading Smith to issue multiple apologies and ultimately resign from the Academy. Additionally, the Academy imposed a 10-year ban barring Smith from attending the awards.
The Oscars slap seriously damaged Smith’s reputation, and afterward, there were questions about whether his career could continue. His first film after the slap, thehistorical dramaEmancipation, was expected to feature another strong performance from Smith and mark a quick comeback for the actor. However, the movie received mixed reviews from critics and failed to make much of an impression on audiences with a streaming release on Apple TV+.
Will Smith’s New Role Ends A Major Drought 28 Years After Career-Changing Project
Will Smith is currently in talks to make his first return to TV since The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air with Westworld creators Jonathan Nolan & Lisa Joy.
Now, after passing the $100 million mark at the domestic box office,Bad Boys: Ride or Diehas officially reinvigorated Smith’s career and proven he is still a bankable star after the slap.Resistorhas reportedly been in development for a while and is considered the perfect star vehicle for Smith. AfterBad Boys: Ride or Die’s success, Sony was confident enough to continue their collaboration with Smith and fast-trackResistor. With a return to sci-fi and a potential blockbuster on the horizon,Bad Boys: Ride or Die’s success could signal a promising new chapter in Smith’s career post-slap.
Bad Boys: Ride or Dieis playing in theaters.
