Although the idea for sequel(s) to the mega-hit Independence Day have been kicking around for years, nothing has gone past the negotiation stage – until now. Director and all-around king of disaster Roland Emmerich, along with his old producing and screenwriting partner Dean Devlin, are currently finishing the scripts to two follow-ups and their final drafts should be turned in to Fox before the end of the year. The idea behind the sequels is that they’ll be shot back-to-back, telling a single story, yet still able to stand on their own (similar to the Back to the Future sequels). The big question remaining is whether or not Will Smith will agree to return for the films or not. In past negotiations, the bankable star has asked for a staggering $50 million payday, a sum that Fox wouldn’t agree to. Insiders are saying that Fox is willing to make the movies without Smith, if necessary, but can they really succeed in his absence?

Smith has maintained a much slower schedule for himself over the past few years. He hasn’t appeared in a film since 2008’s Seven Pounds, instead focusing more time on his family and helping promote his kid’s careers. Aside from Men in Black III, Big Willie only has one other film he’s attached to: M. Night Shymalan’s One Thousand A.E. Right now that project is moving forward very slowly, so Smith could probably fit the Independence Day films in if he wanted. Even though he’s been a no-show on the big screen for the past few years, Smith still stands as one of the most popular, bankable stars of our time and I can already hear the complaints being launched if these movies go forward without him. How much would you anticipate these sequels and how much would Will Smith’s presence factor into your feelings on them?

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