JOHN CARTER 2 (2024)

A Sequel Reimagined

Over a decade after the release of the original John Carter (2012), the idea of a sequel resurfaced—bringing with it renewed hope among fans who had long admired the film’s vision and ambition. Titled John Carter 2: Gods of Mars, the proposed sequel was developed with a completed script and a planned storyline that promised a deeper, darker, and more expansive journey through the world of Barsoom.

Story Premise

The sequel was set to open with Dejah Thoris recounting the heroic tale of John Carter to their son, Carthoris. But this quiet beginning would quickly turn tragic as a shapeshifting Thern abducts the boy, triggering a new and perilous adventure. Transported back to Barsoom, Carter would reunite with Tars Tarkas and embark on a journey down the mysterious River Iss.

There, Carter would encounter the Firstborn—an ancient, technologically advanced race dwelling beneath the surface of Mars, long mistaken for gods. As he uncovers the Therns’ continued manipulation of the planet’s fate, Carter must rally the Tharks, the Red Martians, and the Firstborn in a fight for Barsoom’s future—and his family’s survival.

Characters & Themes

Returning characters would have included:

• John Carter – once again fighting not just for survival, but for his family and his adopted world

• Dejah Thoris – a fierce warrior and mother, holding Barsoom’s political future in her hands

• Tars Tarkas – loyal, battle-hardened, and vital to uniting the planet’s divided tribes

• Carthoris – the next generation of Barsoom’s legacy, introduced as a child destined for greatness

Thematically, Gods of Mars would have delved into family, betrayal, political manipulation, and the tension between science and mythology.

Development & Cancellation

Despite a rich universe and a completed script, John Carter 2 never moved beyond the planning stage. The underwhelming box office performance of the first film led Disney to shelve plans for the trilogy and eventually relinquish the rights to the Barsoom stories. While the creative team had high hopes, studio concerns and financial risks ultimately stopped the sequel in its tracks.

Cult Status & Fan Demand

In the years since its release, John Carter has gained a cult following. Fans admire its epic scope, visual style, and loyalty to the source material by Edgar Rice Burroughs. This growing support has fueled ongoing discussions about reviving the franchise, especially after the resurgence of interest in serialized sci-fi and fantasy properties.

Final Verdict

John Carter 2: Gods of Mars remains one of the most compelling "what could have been" stories in modern science fiction cinema. It promised a deeper mythology, richer characters, and a continuation of a saga that still holds great potential. Though the sequel was never officially produced, its legacy endures through fan enthusiasm, concept art, and a vision of Barsoom that continues to inspire.