We get another update on Rush Hour 4, which sees Brett Ratner returning to direct.
The latest reveals a huge update: the movie is now targeting a shoot in Saudi Arabia, among other global locations, as producers line up financing — and yes, Donald Trump still wants it to happen.
Paramount Commits to U.S. Theatrical Release
While the distribution deal isn’t finalized, Puck News says that Paramount has agreed to give Rush Hour 4 a domestic release across 4,000 theaters.
That’s what Warner Bros. — which still holds the rights — required to trigger international pre-sale deals and unlock global funding.
That theatrical commitment is key to the $100 million in financing that’s already been raised by producer Tarak Ben Ammar and Brett Ratner’s partner Bahman Naraghi.
A spring or summer shoot is now being discussed, depending on talent deals.
Filming in China, Africa — and Saudi Arabia
The film’s story reportedly involves wildlife poaching, with scenes planned for China, Africa, and Saudi Arabia.
The Saudi shoot is tied directly to the financing — with the kingdom pushing for visibility in global entertainment, just like they are doing with Zack Snyder’s UFC Brawler movie and their broader push into Hollywood and gaming.
While it’s not confirmed if the Saudi Public Investment Fund is directly contributing to production, it seems to line up that they are.
No Deal Yet With Chan or Tucker
The report also adds that Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker haven’t signed on, yet. Both earned more than $20 million for Rush Hour 3, and while the current team is eager to move forward, their absence gives them leverage now that the project is public.
Even so, Puck says everyone wants this to happen, including Trump, who reportedly pushed for the project behind the scenes.
