The Long-Awaited Mamma Mia 3: What's Causing the Delay?

Summary

There is optimism from the producer of Mamma Mia! regarding the possibility of a third movie, as it is highly desired by everyone. However, the producer has been preoccupied with a reality show, and the members of ABBA are currently focused on their reunion album.

Universal Studios is planning a third installment of the Mamma Mia! movie, and the producer has a storyline in mind. However, persuading ABBA's songwriters and producers Björn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson may prove to be a time-consuming task. Now that the television show has been completed, the producer can potentially shift her attention towards the movie, aiming to coincide its release with the celebration of Mamma Mia!'s 25th anniversary.

Producer Judy Craymer recently discussed the possibility of a third Mamma Mia! movie in an interview with Variety. Craymer is confident that another film will be made because there is a strong desire for it among fans. However, due to her involvement with the reality show Mamma Mia! I Have a Dream, and the busy schedules of ABBA songwriters Björn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson, who are also producers, the project has been put on hold.

I am so involved in every aspect that there is only so much I can handle. Hence, the TV show has been a top priority. I am confident that the third movie will come to fruition. I am fortunate enough to have the support of Universal Studios, whom I enjoy collaborating with, and I have a well-developed storyline. However, as always, "Mamma Mia" requires some time and effort to persuade Bjorn and Benny. I am not sure how much more convincing they will need, as there is a strong desire for another film from everyone involved. However, they recently worked on ABBA Voyage and may need a break from ABBA-related projects. Nonetheless, the movie will happen. We have already completed the television show, and now my attention may shift towards the film. Perhaps, it will serve as a second celebration for the 25-year milestone.

Mamma Mia! 3 Has Plenty of Material Available

While not everyone from the Mamma Mia! cast may want to return, there are endless storylines that a third movie in the franchise could explore. The events depicted in Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again provide ample opportunities for potential narratives. However, the most plausible scenario would involve another movie filled with nostalgic flashbacks, delving into Sophie's journey as a new mother and her early experiences with her own mother on the enchanting Greek island of Kalokairi.

There is still a vast amount of material left to explore in the ABBA catalogue. ABBA has an extensive collection of songs that are perfect for the lively storytelling that the movies are known for, including lesser-known tracks like "If It Wasn't For the Night" and "Cassandra." Additionally, there are songs from the original musical, such as "Summer Night City" and "Under Attack," that have yet to be featured in either film adaptation.

Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again introduced the idea of incorporating songs from previous movies as reprises in key moments. With the combination of reprises, unused songs, and ABBA's 2021 album Voyage, which offers nine brand-new songs and one unreleased track, Mamma Mia! 3 could easily make its way to the big screen. While it remains uncertain if the project will come together, the success of this new reality show could potentially prioritize the development of the sequel.

Source: Variety