A sequel to the 2000 film “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” remains in early development, director Ron Howard said.
Howard discussed the project Oct. 10 during a conversation at the Hamptons International Film Festival, People magazine reported.
“A year ago, just an idea popped into my head — which I’m not going to tell you,” Howard said. “But I got excited about it, and I began to think it through.”
Jim Carrey is expected to return as the Grinch, though Howard said the filmmakers are still working out the idea and want to make sure the sequel is worth pursuing.
Howard said the concept came to him about a year ago. He shared it with producing partner Brian Grazer, who responded enthusiastically. Writers Alec Berg, Jeff Schaffer and David Mandel, who contributed to the original film, are also expected to work on the sequel.
The team is considering how technology could make Carrey’s return to the character easier. Carrey previously described the original film’s makeup process as difficult and time-consuming. Howard said advances in motion capture and digital effects could reduce the need for Carrey to wear the full makeup.
The 2000 film, directed by Howard and starring Carrey as Dr. Seuss’ Christmas-hating character, became a seasonal favorite.
