Ice Cube and Nia Long are set to reunite for Are They Gone Yet?, a sequel to the hit family comedy franchise that began with 2005’s Are We There Yet?. The project, currently in development with Skydance, follows the characters Nick and Suzanne Persons as they navigate the transition into grandparenthood. This film marks the return of the original leads to the series nearly two decades after the release of the 2007 sequel, Are We Done Yet?.
What is the plot of the new sequel?
The upcoming film shifts the focus from the chaotic road trips of the original movies to the domestic challenges of a new generation. According to an official announcement from Ice Cube’s production company, CubeVision, the story centers on Nick Persons adjusting to life as a grandfather. Screenwriters Chris Hazzard and Mike Fontana are attached to pen the script, which aims to maintain the franchise’s signature blend of generational comedy and family dynamics. While specific plot details remain under wraps, the premise signals a departure from the "road trip" format that defined the first two installments.
Why is this franchise returning now?
The revival of Are We There Yet? aligns with a broader Hollywood trend of leveraging established intellectual property to appeal to millennial nostalgia. The original 2005 film grossed over $97 million worldwide, according to Box Office Mojo, cementing its status as a cultural touchstone for audiences who grew up in the mid-2000s.
By reuniting Ice Cube and Nia Long, the studio is betting on the chemistry that drove the commercial success of the initial films. This strategy mirrors other recent industry moves, such as the revival of long-dormant comedy franchises that rely on the original cast’s established rapport to draw in both legacy fans and new viewers.
How does this film fit into the franchise history?
The Are We There Yet? brand has a long history of expansion beyond its theatrical roots. Following the success of the two feature films, the concept was adapted into a television series on TBS that ran for three seasons from 2010 to 2013, starring Terry Crews and Essence Atkins.
The following table highlights the progression of the franchise:
| Title | Release Year | Format |
|---|---|---|
| Are We There Yet? | 2005 | Feature Film |
| Are We Done Yet? | 2007 | Feature Film |
| Are We There Yet? (TV series) | 2010–2013 | Television |
| Are They Gone Yet? | In Development | Feature Film |
What is the status of the project?
As of late 2024, the project is in the active development phase. While Ice Cube has confirmed his involvement and expressed enthusiasm for the partnership with Skydance, no director or official release date has been attached to the production. The project is being spearheaded by CubeVision, the production company founded by Ice Cube, which has been seeking to expand its slate of family-oriented content.
For fans of the original films, the announcement serves as the first official confirmation that the characters will return to the screen in a narrative capacity after nearly 20 years of silence regarding a potential sequel.