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It often happens that movies that seem to end on a nicely wrapped up note still leave that slight dangling thread from which a sequel could potentially be weaved. This does not, however, mean that filmmakers should grab the opportunity to do so.

Independence Day is one such film that should be left alone. In 1996, writer and director Roland Emmerich gave audiences an action-packed movie that left us cheering for humanity, while also leading us to wonder about what would happen if aliens ever did attack earth.

After Jeff Goldblum’s computer genius and Will Smith’s flying skills give armies around the world the opportunity to take down the alien invaders, humans achieve victory, the aliens are blown to bits, the world is saved, and the 4th of July takes on a new significance. Although we can ponder what happens to the film’s characters after earth’s near-destruction, for the most part Emmerich gave his audience a rather tidy ending.

Still, Emmerich has written a sequel to Independence Day, and is currently in talks with 20th Century Fox to work out the production specifics. Considering that the film ended with the aliens being destroyed, after having left their own ravished planet, one has to wonder what a sequel could entail. It wouldn’t make sense for more aliens to return, and does anyone really want to see a movie about David/Jeff Goldblum getting back together with his ex-wife? Or Captain Hiller/Will Smith’s newlywed years with his exotic dancing bride? What does that leave Emmerich to work with?

The biggest issue the sequel is facing as far as production goes, though, is the financial aspect.

Will Smith is one of the highest paid actors in Hollywood, largely because he receives a cut of the profits from every movie he does. Because of this, FOX is hesitant to cast Smith in his original role, a decision that would severely damage the chance of an Independence Day 2 being any good at all.

For now, the possibility of Independence Day 2 remains just that– a possibility. Personal opinion is that it should stay as such, but if it does go forward, it’ll be interesting to see whether they can manage to make a movie that is anywhere near the quality of the original.