4/20: 'Kid Cannabis' Sequel Blazing Ahead for 2017 Release

John Stockwell is in talks to write and direct a sequel to last year’s drug-fueled dark comedy “Kid Cannabis,” which starred Jonathan Daniel Brown as real life marijuana kingpin Nate Norman, it was announced Monday.

Production is slated to start in early 2016 in advance of an April 20, 2017 release date, according to producer Gordon Bijelonic.

“Kid Cannabis” co-starred Kenny Wormald, Ron Perlman and John C. McGinley. The first film depicted the true story of Idaho teenager Nate Norman, who became entrenched in a multi-million dollar marijuana trafficking ring, leading to high times for Nate and his friends, and ultimately their incarceration.

While the plot has been kept under wraps, “Kid Cannabis 2” is expected to be shot in various locations including, New York City, the Hamptons, and Jamaica. Its predecessor was filmed in British Columbia, Canada.

Leading man Brown is not expected to return for the sequel, as he told TheWrap that he would not be back after a troubling experience on the first film.

“On the set of ‘Kid Cannabis,’ I experienced time sheet fraud, pressure to work illegal hours, dangerous working conditions and constant mistreatment from producers Gordon Bijelonic and Corey Large,” Brown told TheWrap. “I am still owed much of my deferred compensation and have no interest in returning for a sequel. I love all of the movie’s fans and am extremely grateful for the dedication and support.”

Bijelonic responded to Brown’s allegations and revealed that the actor was not asked to return for the sequel, which will focus on a different character.

“It is unfortunate that Jonathan had a bad experience and this is news to us. We vehemently deny all of his claims and had a great time working with him and thought he was exceptionally talented,” said Bijelonic. “Jonathan was not asked back for the sequel as the story revolves around Topher’s character and not Nate Norman. We are all very surprised that he feels this way as none of his claims were ever mentioned to the film’s producers and we continued an active personal relationship long after filming completed. We do wish him the best moving forward and look forward to the continuation of this amazing story.”

Well Go USA distributed “Kid Cannabis” last April, and Bijelonic decided to push forward on a sequel following the first film’s strong reception.

“The response to ‘Kid Cannabis’ has been fantastic amongst film critics, moviegoers, and cannabis enthusiasts alike. Social media and the film’s well-received soundtrack have enhanced discovery and driven viewers to digital platforms like iTunes and Netflix, where the film has over performed. The debate over marijuana legalization across the country, and across the world for that matter, has never been more relevant, and the timing for this sequel couldn’t be better,” said Bijelonic. “We’re very excited to have Chuck Wilson, who served as the music supervisor for the first film, return as a producer.”

Comments