In anticipation that the October-released original with be a hit, following strong test screenings, DreamWorks has begun development on a sequel to the robot-boxing flick, REAL STEEL, reports Deadline.com. To be released by Disney, the first installment in the potential franchise is directed by Shawn Levy and stars Hugh Jackman. Writer John Gatins will return to pen the follow-up. Deals have not been made for Levy or Jackman to return yet.

Based on a Richard Matheson short story, the film takes place in a future where human boxing has been banned, so robots have now taken to the ring instead. An ex-boxer (Jackman), down on his luck, finds a rundown robot that has a knack for winning. Along with his estranged 13-year-old son, the boxer works his way up the ranks to the championship.

Angry Films' Don Murphy and Susan Montford, and Levy are the producer. Stephen Spielberg, Robert Zemeckis, Jack Rapke and Steve Starkey are the exec producers.