Paramount Announces Release Dates for 'Crawl 2' and 'Heart Eyes 2'
Sequel dates set for 2027 and 2028 as Paramount strengthens its horror franchise lineup.
1Horror sequel lineup
Paramount has confirmed release dates for two horror sequels: 'Crawl 2' on July 16, 2027 and 'Heart Eyes 2' on February 4, 2028. The studio is strategically positioning these films to capitalize on its successful horror track record. Both projects continue established franchises, with 'Crawl' (2019) having been a commercial success. The summer 2027 slot for 'Crawl 2' suggests confidence in its blockbuster potential, while the early 2028 date for 'Heart Eyes 2' avoids direct competition with other major genre releases.
2'Crawl 2' production details
The 'Crawl' sequel is currently filming in Hungary with original director Alexandre Aja returning. Emily Rudd and Mason Gooding reprise their roles as characters trapped during a hurricane with deadly alligators. Paramount had internally locked the July 2027 release date before this public announcement. The production's European location suggests potential tax incentives or creative considerations influencing the shoot. The film will face competition from Warner Bros.' 'Man of Tomorrow' and 'A Minecraft Movie Squared' in the same month.
3'Heart Eyes 2' adjustments
Paramount moved 'Heart Eyes 2' up by one week from its original mid-February 2028 slot. Director Josh Ruben returns from the first film, with Olivia Holt confirmed to reprise her role as Ally. The studio holds domestic rights and handled most international distribution for the original. While plot details remain undisclosed, the adjusted release date positions the sequel away from major 2028 genre competitors like 'X-Men' and 'Evil Dead Wrath', which debut later that year.
4Strategic release calendar
Paramount is bookending July 2027 with 'Crawl 2' on the 16th and 'A Quiet Place Part III' on the 30th, creating a horror-focused month. The studio's 2028 slate begins with 'Heart Eyes 2' in February, a traditionally slower period for major releases. This scheduling demonstrates Paramount's confidence in its horror properties to perform outside peak summer seasons. The dates also avoid direct clashes with other studios' tentpole films, maximizing each sequel's potential audience.
5Franchise continuity
Both sequels maintain creative continuity with their original films through returning directors and key cast members. For 'Crawl 2', Alexandre Aja's return ensures stylistic consistency with the first film's tense survival horror approach. 'Heart Eyes 2' brings back Josh Ruben, suggesting the sequel will maintain the original's tone. Olivia Holt's confirmed return provides narrative continuity, though Mason Gooding's involvement remains unconfirmed for the romantic subplot.
6Production status
'Crawl 2' is actively in production in Hungary, indicating principal photography is underway. The Hungary location may offer production cost advantages or suitable filming environments for the water-based horror premise. In contrast, 'Heart Eyes 2' appears to be in earlier development stages, with only limited casting confirmed. The different production timelines reflect the varied release dates, with 'Crawl 2's summer 2027 slot requiring earlier completion than 'Heart Eyes 2's early 2028 date.
7Market positioning
Paramount is leveraging its horror franchise strength by spacing these sequels six months apart. The studio has demonstrated consistent success with horror properties like 'A Quiet Place' and 'Scream'. By anchoring 2027's summer and 2028's winter with horror sequels, Paramount creates predictable revenue streams. The dates also allow for staggered marketing campaigns and merchandise opportunities across different seasons.
8Industry implications
These announcements signal Paramount's commitment to mid-budget horror as a reliable revenue source amid industry shifts. The sequel strategy capitalizes on existing fan bases while minimizing original development risks. The scheduling shows careful competitive analysis, avoiding clashes with other studios' major releases. For exhibitors, these dates provide consistent horror content to drive theater attendance in traditionally varied periods.
Original article: Gizmodo — Paramount Announces Release Dates for 'Crawl 2' and 'Heart Eyes 2'