Is the sequel to the Mortal Instruments: City of Bones really happening? There’s new information about City of Ashes being set for worldwide distribution in 2014. What this info means is that certain distributors are interested in releasing City of Ashes, if it gets made.

A rough cut of “Mortal Instruments: City of Bones” was screened in Cannes:

Mister Smith screened a rough cut of “Mortal Instruments: City of Bones” at a private distributors-only event in Cannes. “Everybody who has the first movie wants the second movie: We’re dealing with the details,” producer Moszkowicz said.

The cut was shown to potential distributors to make them interested in The Mortal Instruments. Seems like the distributors of City of Bones are also interested in City of Ashes – in case it’s produced.

Filming and distribution are two separate things. The fact City of Ashes was able to secure distributors is sure promising for the sequels reaching the viewers, but it doesn’t guarantee the sequels will be made.

In fact, City of Ashes going into production this early (as reported, in the fall of 2013) is somewhat of a curiosity. You don’t get a sequel green lit until the first film’s box office success is evaluated. So they are either able to make the sequel(s) happen regardless of the first film’s success (which is not a usual practice in the filmmaking), or all these news are part of City of Bones promotional strategy to generate more fan interest and, consequently, a bigger box office success.

In a recent interview with the Hollywood Reporter, Lily Collins mentions the possible sequels, making it clear they depend on the success of the first film:

THR: Are you attached to star in the rest of the adaptations beyond City of Bones?

LC: Yes. I mean, it just depends on — you kind of have to see how the first one goes. As with any potential franchise, you just leave it up to kind of the fans and to see what happens with the first one and you hope.

In any case, City of Ashes’ destiny is still uncertain and a lot depends on the first film’s success.

Sources: Variety | The Hollywood Reporter | TMI Source