July 14, 2008–Paramount is developing a “School of Rock” sequel with Jack Black attached to reprise his role as rock star substitute teacher Dewey Finn, who in the first film turned a class of fifth-graders into rock 'n' rollers. Richard Linklater will direct again the Scott Rudin production.
Mike White, who penned the 2003 comedy, is writing the script, titled “School of Rock 2: America Rocks,” which depicts Finn leading a group of summer school students on a cross-country field trip that delves into the history of rock 'n' roll and explores the roots of blues, rap, country and other genres.
The original film was a box office hit, costing $30 million to make and gorssing $131 million worldwide.
White's Rip Cord Prods. has a first-look deal with the studio. He and Black started Black & White Prods. in 2004 but separated in 2006. White's writing credits include several Black features, including “Orange County” and “Nacho Libre,” both for Paramount. White wrote and directed “Year of the Dog” for Paramount Vantage, which was a flop.
Black, who recently dropped out of Todd Phillips' comedy “Man-Witch,” stars in two high-profile comedies: Ben Stiller's “Tropic Thunder,” opening August 15, and the Judd Apatow-produced “Year One,” which will bow next June.
Linklater most recently helmed “A Scanner Darkly” for Warner Independent, which was a failure.
