Face/Off 2 Loses Director, But Sequel Still in the Works

Paramount Pictures is now allowing new filmmakers to pitch ideas for the Face/Off sequel after Adam Wingard's departure.

Feb. 25, 2026 at 2:39pm

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The planned sequel to the 1997 sci-fi action thriller Face/Off has hit a setback, as director Adam Wingard has departed the project. However, Paramount Pictures is still moving forward with the sequel and is now accepting new pitches from filmmakers, indicating the studio hasn't abandoned the idea entirely.

Why it matters

The original Face/Off, directed by John Woo and starring John Travolta and Nicolas Cage, was a critical and commercial success, becoming a cult classic. A sequel has been in development for several years, and fans have been eagerly anticipating its release. The loss of the director is a significant development, but Paramount's willingness to consider new ideas suggests they still see potential in continuing the franchise.

The details

Paramount Pictures first announced plans for a Face/Off sequel in 2019, and in 2021 it was revealed that Adam Wingard, known for films like The Guest and Godzilla vs. Kong: The New Empire, had been tapped to direct. However, Collider is now reporting that Wingard has departed the project, and the reasons behind his exit are currently unclear.

  • In 2019, Paramount Pictures first announced plans for a Face/Off sequel.
  • In 2021, it was revealed that Adam Wingard would direct the sequel.
  • In 2026, Collider reported that Wingard has now departed the Face/Off sequel project.

The players

Paramount Pictures

The American film and television production and distribution company that released the original Face/Off movie in 1997 and is now developing a sequel.

Adam Wingard

The director who was previously attached to helm the Face/Off sequel but has since departed the project.

John Travolta

The actor who starred as Sean Archer in the original Face/Off movie.

Nicolas Cage

The actor who starred as Castor Troy in the original Face/Off movie.

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What’s next

Paramount Pictures is now accepting new pitches from filmmakers for the Face/Off sequel, as they look to find a replacement director and move the project forward.

The takeaway

The loss of director Adam Wingard is a setback for the Face/Off sequel, but Paramount's willingness to consider new ideas suggests they remain committed to continuing the popular franchise. Fans will be eager to see who the studio selects to helm the next chapter and how they plan to build upon the legacy of the original film.