After years of speculation, The Goonies 2 was confirmed to be in development earlier this year and has now received an exciting script update from its writer. The beloved 1985 adventure film by Richard Donner and Steven Spielberg, The Goonies, has remained a timeless classic for nearly four decades, with a perfect blend of heart, humor, and treasure-hunting thrills.

Potsy Ponciroli signed on as writer for The Goonies 2 in February 2025, replacing the original’s Chris Columbus, although Columbus and Spielberg are still attached as producers. While some of the cast, notably Ke Huy Quan, have expressed their excitement about revisiting the franchise, other actors, such as Josh Brolin, were more reserved about the possibility of The Goonies 2.

Now, ᴅᴇᴀᴅline reports, at the recent Winston Baker panel during the Venice Film Festival, Ponciroli shared a major update on the long-gestating sequel, confirming he’s nearly completed a second draft of the Goonies 2 script. Ponciroli said the first draft “was very well received,” and he’s “95% done” with the second, adding that they’re “moving in the right direction.”

While the script appears to be nearing completion, the project has yet to lock in a director or start date for production. However, despite The Goonies 2‘s exciting script progress, Ponciroli also acknowledged skepticism from fans who may be asking if the sequel is needed, reᴀssuring audiences that he’d never “redo” the original. Check out Ponciroli’s statement below:

I know there’s a lot of “do we need a new Goonies,” but I’m the biggest fan of the original, it’s my favourite movie of all time. I’d never “redo” The Goonies. To me, it was a story that never ended, so this is the movie I want to see as one of its biggest fans.

What Potsy Ponciroli’s Update Means For The Goonies 2

This script update is one of the most promising signs yet that The Goonies 2 is gaining real momentum. A near-completed second draft suggests the studio and creative team are aligned on the direction of The Goonies 2‘s story — especially after the first draft was “very well received” — something which is usually a major hurdle for a legacy sequel.

Ponciroli’s deep admiration for the original, with the writer stating it’s his “favourite movie of all time,” should also reᴀssure fans wary of a modern follow-up. However, without a director or production schedule, the project remains in a developmental stage, meaning it will be a while longer before principal pH๏τography begins and further details emerge about The Goonies 2.

Our Take On The Goonies 2’s Script Progress

It’s hard not to feel a mix of excitement and caution when it comes to The Goonies 2. On the one hand, the pᴀssion Ponciroli brings to the script is interesting, as he’s not just hired talent; he’s also a fan writing for fellow fans. On the other hand, the legacy of the 1985 film has certainly dwindled sequel expectations.

Legacy sequel movies will always be difficult to master, as they have to balance nostalgia with something new. Therefore, while The Goonies 2‘s script is almost ready and there seems to be a positive reception from the studio, I think myself and a lot of other people remain apprehensive. However, Ponciroli’s acknowledgment of that is somewhat encouraging.