Häufig gestellte Fragen (FAQ) for
The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor (2008)

There were several reports from insiders that she declined due to "creative differences" with the screenplay after showing some initial interest in the idea of a sequel. Basically she didn't like the screenplay in the end.

The U.K. "ES Magazine" had an interview with Rachel Weisz in the Nov. 16 issue. Her decision not to reprise Evelyn's role also seems to be a part of being a mother and not being able to fit it into her schedule. She's quoted saying "I would have had to go to China for three months and I just can't travel like that any more."

Rachel Weisz has been replaced by Maria Bello.

Freddie Boath has been replaced by a 26 yr old Australian actor, Luke Ford.

Producers have plans that should this film be a success, that Ford will carry the torch for the franchise as Brendan Fraser has now completed his three picture deal. This film is set in 1946 which explains the sudden aged appearence of Alex O'Connell.

The film-makers most likely didn't think they could get away with resurrecting Imhotep a third time and wanted to take a new spin on things with the introduction of a Chinese mummy. If an Egyptian mummy had been used, audiences would probably have been bored as it's been done before twice already. Also the franchise's original director/writer, Stephen Sommers, has been replaced but is onboard as a producer.

In the previous films Ardeth Bay was the guardian of Imhotep's tomb which was in Egypt. Imhotep is not in this film nor is the Egyptian setting - it is set in China so naturally Ardeth has no need to be a part of this scenario.

Michelle Yeoh's production diary is updated regularly here: http://www.michelleyeoh.info/Movie/mummy3.html

Rob Cohen's production blog is here: http://www.robcohenthemummy.com/

Despite early reports that Johnston would take over directing duties he ultimately passed to follow up JP3 with its fourth installment.

So far, here's the three new images released...

http://movieblog.ugo.com/index.php/movieblog/more/new_mummy_3_images_poster/