We reported last week that Dumb and Dumber To, the long-awaited sequel to Dumb and Dumber, had been dropped by its studio, Warner Brothers, but co-writer/co-director Peter Farrelly announced today that Universal is picking up distribution to the film and he hopes to start shooting in August. Farrelly made the announcement on an episode of the Nerdist podcast recorded last week. “Long story short, we’re going to another studio,†Farrelly explained. He added, “That’s what’s held this thing up because we’re negotiating with two different studios – Warner Brother and New Line – about how to get it out of there.â€
Farrelly confirmed that original stars Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels will be back to reprise their roles. Farrelly spoke highly of the script, which he co-wrote, saying, “It’s a little masterpiece … It’s so good that I think it makes the first one better.†When asked about plans for production, he responded, “We’ll hopefully be shooting by August in Atlanta … It’s gonna come out next summer. It’ll be exactly 20 years when it comes out.†Peter Farrelly also announced a new contest in which fans can end up with a small part in the sequel. Farrelly wants fans to film Vine videos making Dumb and Dumber references and post them on Twitter with the hashtag “dumbto.†He and his brother/co-director Bobby will be selecting the best one to receive a one-line part in the movie, so start planning your Vines now.