Third Live-Action Asterix Feature Scrapped

files/pictures/picture-35.jpgRenn Prod. and producer Claude Berri have scrapped plans to produce a third live-action feature in the ASTERIX franchise, reported the HOLLYWOOD REPORTER. ASTERIX AND OBELIX IN SPAIN had been scheduled to start shooting next spring in Spain. Director Gerard Jugnot (MONSIEUR BATIGNOLLE) had been assigning directing duties and Christian Clavier and Gerard Depardieu were set to reprise their roles.

Rumors say that the co-creator of the original comic strip that the films are based on, Alberto Uderzo, disliked the second film in the series, ASTERIX & OBELIX: MISSION CLEOPATRA, which was written and directed by Alain Chabat. Both films were big hits in Europe. However, Uderzo had final veto powers on the third film. Along with the late Rene Goscinny, Uderzo created the bumbling duo in ASTERIX AND OBELIX, the most popular comicstrip in Europe.

German TV network M6 is producing a $25 million animated feature based on the characters. ASTERIX AND THE VIKINGS is scheduled to hit theaters in Europe in 2006.