We round up recent news on geek movie projects.

Fans were not happy with the look of Sonic in the recent trailer for the live-action hybrid film (see “First 'Sonic The Hedgehog' Trailer”), and the director responded on Twitter with a promise to make changes before the film hits theaters in November. “Thank you for the support. And the criticism. The message is loud and clear... you aren't happy with the design & you want changes. It's going to happen. Everyone at Paramount & Sega are fully committed to making this character the BEST he can be...” It’s a lot to accomplish in a short time frame, but there was a similar reaction to Alita’s eyes in Alita: Battle Angel in the first trailer (see “New 'Alita: Battle Angel' Promo and Poster”).

Actor Peter Mayhew, the actor who portrayed Chewbacca in Star Wars films, passed away in Texas on April 30.  He was 74. The 7’ 3” Mayhew played “Chewie” the Wookiee in every Star Wars film from 1977’s Star Wars: A New Hope through 2015’s Star Wars: The Force Awakens. He mentored his successor, Joonas Suotamo, when he retired from the role.  “Peter was a wonderful man,” said George Lucas in a statement.  “He was the closest any human being could be to a Wookiee: big heart, gentle nature…and I learned to always let him win. He was a good friend and I’m saddened by his passing.”

The live-action/CG hybrid Rugrats movie has acquired a director, THR reports. Paramount Players and Nickelodeon Movies has hired David Bowers (Diary of a Wimpy Kid movies). The Nicktoons show ran from 1991 on and off through the 2000s, spawning several movies, specials, a spin off show and more. BOOM! currently produces the comic series (see “'Rugrats' OGN and One-Shot Collection”).

James Bond 25 began filming recently in Jamaica, and the official Twitter account documented it for fans of the franchise, sharing this photo of director Cary Fukunaga’s first take. The untitled sequel is due in theaters on April 8, 2020.

John Cena is in talks to join the cast of the Suicide Squad sequel, Variety reports. Margot Robbie is returning as Harley Quinn, and Jai Courtney will reprise his role of Captain Boomerang. Cena’s role, much like future castmate Idris Elba, is still unknown. The Warner Bros. feature is currently scheduled to hit theaters on August 6, 2021.

Marvel’s Black Widow is expanding its cast, THR reported. O-T Fagbenle (The Handmaid’s Tale) is in talks to join the solo film for Scarlett Johansson’s MCU character. David Harbour (Stranger Things) and Florence Pugh (Fighting with My Family) are also on board. Cate Shortland will direct the film, which was scripted by Jac Schaeffer. Plot details have not been released, and the film has yet to be scheduled, but production is expected to begin in London in June.