In 2022, Bullet Train exploded onto the big screen as a stylized, high-octane action-comedy packed with chaos, quirky assassins, and enough plot twists to keep even the most jaded moviegoer on edge.
Directed by David Leitch and led by Brad Pitt as the unlucky hitman known as Ladybug, the film delivered a blend of over-the-top action and sharp humor, all aboard a Tokyo-to-Kyoto bullet train filled with lethal passengers on intersecting missions.
Despite mixed critical reviews, Bullet Train proved to be a commercial success, grossing over $230 million worldwide. The film’s unique tone, dynamic fight choreography, and eccentric characters helped it stand out in a crowded action genre.
As such, fans and industry insiders have started asking the inevitable question: Could there be a Bullet Train 2? Here’s what we know so far—from official comments to speculative possibilities—and what a sequel might look like.
Recapping the Ride: Why Bullet Train Made an Impact
Before delving into sequel speculation, it’s worth understanding why Bullet Train gained traction. The film was based on the novel Maria Beetle by Kōtarō Isaka and boasted a sprawling cast of talent including Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Brian Tyree Henry, Joey King, Hiroyuki Sanada, and Sandra Bullock.
What made Bullet Train resonate wasn’t just the action—it was the film’s commitment to blending kinetic violence with absurdity. It had shades of Kill Bill, Smokin’ Aces, and John Wick, but with a comic book flair that made it accessible to a broader audience. The colorful visuals and international setting added to its appeal, while its core narrative—a reluctant killer stuck in a train filled with assassins—all but begged for future chapters.
Has a Sequel Been Confirmed?
As of now, no official sequel has been confirmed by Sony Pictures. However, industry speculation has remained strong, and the success of the first film has naturally led to discussions about expanding the universe.
In an August 2022 interview following the film’s release, director David Leitch said he was open to the idea. “There’s definitely more to explore in this world,” Leitch noted. “You have all these characters with backstories that are only hinted at—we could absolutely dig deeper.”
That statement echoes the sentiments of many fans who noticed the narrative seeds planted throughout the film. Characters like Tangerine and Lemon (played by Taylor-Johnson and Tyree Henry) became breakout favorites, sparking online chatter about potential spin-offs or prequels focused on their criminal past.
What Has the Cast Said?
Brad Pitt (Ladybug)
Pitt hasn’t directly addressed plans for a sequel, but he’s been vocal about enjoying the collaborative and physically demanding nature of the film. He praised Leitch’s direction and the ensemble cast, describing the set as “fun and fast-paced” in several promotional interviews. While Pitt tends to avoid long franchises, his involvement in a second installment would likely depend on the script’s originality and tone.
Aaron Taylor-Johnson (Tangerine)
Perhaps the most enthusiastic among the cast, Taylor-Johnson has been openly supportive of a sequel, even hinting that conversations may already be underway. In an interview with Variety, he said: “I’d jump back into that world in a heartbeat. Tangerine has more stories to tell.”
Interestingly, Taylor-Johnson’s performance drew significant praise, leading to rumors that his character—or at least a variant in a prequel format—could headline a follow-up film. Given the popularity of the Lemon-Tangerine dynamic, it’s a viable direction.
Brian Tyree Henry (Lemon)
Henry, too, expressed interest in returning. His portrayal of Lemon—sensitive, deadly, and obsessed with Thomas the Tank Engine—was a standout. “I had so much fun playing Lemon,” Henry said in a podcast appearance. “He’s layered, funny, dangerous. There’s so much more we could explore.”
Possible Directions for a Sequel
Though Bullet Train wrapped up many of its plotlines, it also left doors open—both narratively and tonally—for future stories.
1. New Mission, Same Chaos
A direct sequel could follow Ladybug as he’s reluctantly drawn into another convoluted mission. Now seen as more “enlightened” and passive, watching him be forced back into action could provide comedic and thematic continuity.
2. Tangerine and Lemon Prequel
Given Tangerine’s fate in the original, a prequel exploring the twin assassins’ earlier escapades could be a compelling spin-off. This approach would preserve the beloved duo dynamic and deepen the universe without relying too heavily on the original storyline.
3. An Anthology Series of Assassins
The world of Bullet Train is clearly filled with eccentric killers, and a sequel could pivot toward an anthology format, introducing new characters on another high-stakes collision course—perhaps on a different train, plane, or even in another country.
4. Focus on The White Death’s Legacy
Hiroyuki Sanada’s character and his feud with the White Death hinted at a broader criminal underworld. A sequel might explore the power vacuum left in the wake of the White Death’s demise, with new factions rising and old ones seeking revenge.
Box Office and Market Considerations
Studios don’t greenlight sequels based solely on artistic potential. Box office performance, international appeal, and streaming success all factor into the decision. With Bullet Train performing well globally and maintaining a strong post-theatrical life on streaming platforms like Netflix, Sony may view a sequel as a smart financial move.
Additionally, the ensemble nature of the cast means a sequel could be marketed with or without Brad Pitt, depending on budget and availability. This flexibility increases the chances of a follow-up entering development.
The Leitch Factor
Director David Leitch, known for Atomic Blonde, Deadpool 2, and John Wick, is no stranger to building cinematic universes. His experience as a former stuntman and action choreographer gives him a distinctive style that audiences respond to. If Bullet Train 2 moves forward, Leitch’s involvement will likely be essential.
In interviews, he’s expressed enthusiasm for returning—but only with the right idea. “We don’t want to make a sequel just for the sake of it,” he said. “If we do it, it has to feel fresh, and it has to surprise people again.”
Final Thoughts
So, could there be a Bullet Train 2? The momentum is there. While an official announcement has yet to be made, the combination of fan interest, positive box office returns, and cast enthusiasm suggests that a return to the high-speed chaos of Bullet Train is very much on the table.
The challenge will be crafting a story that captures the same energy without feeling redundant. If done well, a sequel could expand the universe, introduce new unforgettable characters, and deliver another adrenaline-fueled ride full of humor, heart, and havoc.
Until then, fans will have to rewatch the original and speculate on just how wild the next ride might be,