Two decades after its initial release, the cult crime thriller "Lord of War," which once co-starred Jared Leto, is set to receive a much-anticipated sequel titled "Lords of War." This development comes as Leto's latest high-profile film, Tron: Ares, reportedly underperforms at the box office despite an 85% audience approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, echoing a pattern of his films gaining appreciation over time. Lord of War itself has grown significantly in critical and fan estimation since its 2005 debut.

Reports confirm that "Lords of War" is slated to begin production later this month, with filming scheduled in Belgium and Morocco. Andrew Niccol returns to write the script and direct, preserving the original creative vision. Production will be handled under Vendôme Pictures, the same banner responsible for the original film, ensuring continuity in its distinctive tone and style.

While the original film focused on Nicolas Cage's Yuri Orlov running his illegal arms business alongside his brother Vitaly, played by Jared Leto, the sequel introduces a new, more personal antagonist. Leto will not reprise his role, leaving Cage as the sole original cast member. He will now face off against his son, Anton, portrayed by Bill Skarsgård, adding a formidable presence to the ensemble. The cast is further strengthened by Sylvia Hoeks (Blade Runner 2049), Greg Tarzan Davis (Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning), and Laura Harrier (Spider-Man: Homecoming).

The official synopsis reveals a compelling new narrative: "Lords of War" follows notorious gunrunner Yuri Orlov, who goes head-to-head against his own son, Anton (Skarsgård)." Anton, described as a true "chip off the old block," has not only followed his father into the illicit arms trade but escalated operations by assembling a mercenary army to fight America’s conflicts in the Middle East. This rivalry ignites a bitter father-son conflict, even extending to vying for the same women, promising a complex and intense family dynamic at the story’s core.

Further insights into production highlight Skarsgård’s role as an executive producer alongside Philippe Rousselet and Fabrice Gianfermi, known for their work on CODA. In an earlier interview, Skarsgård described his character Anton as a "charismatic f*ing ahole," praising the script’s cynical, satirical, and darkly comedic tone. He emphasized the sequel’s opportunity to "laugh at terrible people," signaling that it will maintain the original film's unique blend of dark humor and critical commentary on the arms trade.

The original "Lord of War," released on September 16, 2005, remains available for rent or purchase on PVOD. Fans eager to revisit the world of Yuri Orlov or anticipate the upcoming sequel should stay tuned for further updates as "Lords of War" moves into production.