Last night, George Miller’s “Furiosa” test screened in Burbank, Los Angeles.
All attendees signed very strict NDAs but some of them shared their “very general” opinion on the film.
Furiosa is VERY GOOD. Really good. One person described it as a film for ‘Mad Max’ fans first, general audiences second. While still being an amazing experience.
The trailer received a mixed response, but an attendee clarified that the visuals have been upgraded, significantly, ever since. The invite also stated that the film is expected to be Rated R. Taking on the role of Furiosa, originally played by Charlize Theron, will be Anya Taylor-Joy. Joining her in the cast are Chris Hemsworth and Tom Burke, in unspecified roles. Here’s the synopsis given ..
As the world fell, a young Furiosa is snatched from her mother and, despite best efforts, she falls into the hands of a great Biker Horde led by the Warlord Dementus. Sweeping through the Wasteland, they come across the Citadel presided over by The Immortan Joe. While the two Tyrants war for dominance, Furiosa must survive many trials as she devotes her life to find her way back home and, during the course of her odyssey, also aims to deliver a means of vengeance. The film is expected to be rated "R" when released in theaters.
It’s going to be damn-near impossible for Miller’s “Furiosa” to be as jaw-dropping as “Fury Road,” but I’m optimistic about this prequel to the 2015 action classic. Miller and Max are a match made in cinematic heaven. If you remember, ‘Fury Road’ also premiered at Cannes — it ended up being one of the most memorable (and now legendary) screenings on the Croisette, in recent memory.
Principal photography on “Furiosa” began June 1, 2022, in Australia, and wrapped last October. According to IMDb, the budget is $168 million. The cost of “Fury Road” was around the same, with estimations ranging between $154-185 million.
There have been rumors that Miller would be directing the ‘Fury Road’ sequel, titled "Mad Max: Wasteland," right after the release of ‘Furiosa’ in the summer of 2024. I haven’t heard any updates, but, hopefully, Miller can get Theron and Tom Hardy back for this one.
Miller isn’t getting any younger either. He’s turning 79 on Sunday and concentrating the twilight of his career on more “Mad Max” is what he wants to do. It’s definitely been the passion and voice of his career.