The Huntsman (film)

Cast

Production

A sequel was planned, with director Rupert Sanders in talks to return. However, in August 2012, it was announced in the aftermath of the scandal involving Sanders cheating on his wife with actress Kristen Stewart after their involvement with the first film, the sequel was shelved, and a spin-off film concentrating on the Huntsman was planned instead, which would not star Stewart. Universal announced a few days later that they were not shelving the sequel. Another report stated that Universal authorized a sequel with Stewart set to reprise her role, but without Sanders to return as the director because of the scandal. A script was written and production was set to begin at some point in 2013, with the film to be released in 2015. In September 2013, Chris Hemsworth said that he did not know anything about a sequel while speaking to the E! television network. On June 4, 2014, Deadline reported that Frank Darabont, Gavin OConnor and Andres Muschietti were on the shortlist to direct a sequel. On June 26, 2014, Deadline confirmed that Darabont was in talks to direct the sequel.

On July 31, 2014, it was announced that there would not be a sequel, but a prequel, and it will be titled The Huntsman, which would not star Stewart as Snow White. On January 16, 2015, it was announced that Darabont had exited the film after he parted with Universal. Hemsworth and Theron would return for the film, while Emily Blunt was being circled for the role. On January 20, 2015, it was confirmed that VFX specialist Cedric Nicolas-Troyan was set to direct the film, whose last draft was written by Darabont, following drafts by Craig Mazin and Evan Spiliotopoulos. On February 24, 2015, Jessica Chastain was set to star in the film, Nick Frost would also be back for his previous role, while Emily Blunt who had been rumored to be interested finally closed a deal to star as well. On March 18, 2015, it was revealed that Sheridan Smith, Rob Brydon and Alexandra Roach were added to the cast to play dwarves alongside Frosts character Nion. Sam Claflin would return as William, TheWrap confirmed on May 7, 2015.

Filming

Principal photography on the film began on April 6, 2015. Filming took place at Waverley Abbey in Surrey, England during April 2015. Filming also occurred from May to July 2015 in Windsor Great Park, England, at locations including South Forest, Johnsons Pond and in the Deer Park near Snow Hill. Filmings also done in Wells. In July 2015, filming also took place at Puzzlewood, in the Forest of Dean.

Release

On July 31, 2014, Universal Pictures set the film for an April 22, 2016 release.