Canadian sales and production outfit Double Dutch International has acquired Craig Fairbrass starrer “Villain 2” for its European Film Market slate, marking the return of the British actor as reformed gangster Eddie Franks.

The sequel finds Franks shot and left for dead shortly after his prison release, forcing him to battle back from near-fatal injuries while protecting his estranged daughter. As he navigates London’s resurgent criminal underworld, Franks must untangle a web of betrayal, family secrets and rival gang vendettas while uncovering the truth behind his ambush.

“‘Villain’ is a franchise in the making,” said Ron Möring, president and CEO at Double Dutch International. “It’s a hard-hitting action film anchored by a magnetic lead performance, and we’re ready to bring the next chapter of Eddie Franks’ story to the international market.”

Neil Linpow, whose credits include “Little Bone Lodge,” steps into the director’s chair, taking over from Philip Barantini, who helmed the 2020 original. Sharp House and Vertigo Films are producing in association with Impact Entertainment, with George Russo and Greg Hall returning to write the screenplay.

Jason Maza, Allan Niblo and Ian Sharp serve as producers, while Fairbrass also executive produces. The project is currently in pre-production.

“I’m excited to be picking up the directing baton from Philip Barantini,” said Linpow. “I’ve always been drawn to stories that live in the shadows: morally compromised characters, consequences and survival. ‘Villain 2’ is about pushing Eddie to the edge and watching what happens when he fights his way back. It’s raw, it’s visceral, it’s bold – and it doesn’t look away.”

Jason Maza and Ian Sharp of Sharp House Entertainment said: “When Craig came to us with the idea of expanding the world of ‘Villain,’ we were immediately on board. We’re huge fans of the original and its creators, George and Greg. We’re excited to bring this sequel to existing fans and introduce Eddie Franks to a new global audience.”

Allan Niblo of Vertigo Films added: “We are thrilled to be bringing ‘Villain 2’ to life. Working with Craig Fairbrass is a fantastic opportunity. This is a story about redemption, loyalty, and the lengths we’ll go to for family – and we’re excited to dive deeper into these themes with the intensity and grit audiences expect.”

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