SPACE Jam: A New Legacy, the sequel to the classic 1996 film starring NBA legend Michael Jordan and the Looney Tunes, launched worldwide on July 16.
Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James takes the mantel from his Airness, leading the Looney Tunes against the Goon Squad in the latest Warner Bros film.
Who is Joe Pytka?
Joe Pytka is an American film, television and music director who famously directed the first Space Jam film over two decades ago.
Despite his work in the film industry, Pytka is widely recognized for his work in directing commercials.
The Pittsburgh native holds the record for the most nominations for the Directors Guild of America Award for Outstanding Directing – Commercials.
The 82-year-old has directed over 80 Super Bowl commercials and won the USA Today Super Bowl Ad Meter Poll seven times.
His commercial for Pepsi, Security Camera, was chosen as the best in the poll's history.
His commercial for Nike, Hare Jordan, was developed into the hit film Space Jam.
What did Space Jam director Joe Pytka say about the reboot?
Pytka told TMZ the premise of his movie resonated more than the new one starring James.
"The truth is that LeBron ain't Michael," Pytka told the outlet, adding that Jordan wasn't only the best basketball player at the time but the biggest celebrity in the world.
He also had harsh words for the new animation of Bugs Bunny, who he said: "looked like one of those fluffy dolls you buy at an airport gift shop to bring your kid when your business trip has taken too long."
Despite his criticism of the new film, Pytka called James "an incredible athlete and a very good actor."
However, the movie was a smash hit at the box office during its opening weekend.
According to the Associated Press, Space Jam: A New Legacy earned an estimated $31.7million in its opening three days.
The movie took the No.1 spot and surpassed industry expectations at the domestic box office following its July 16 premiere.
The 4-time NBA Champion and LA Lakers superstar took to Twitter on July 17 to respond to critics of the movie.
James shared a news report about the box office return, tweeting: "Hi Haters!" with a smiling emoji.
Director Malcolm D Lee added in a tweet, "Many thanks to the fans!!! We made this for you and reward us with your presence. Thanks for coming back to the movies!"
Space Jam: A New Legacy is now playing in theaters worldwide and on HBO Max.
You can sign up for HBO Max for $14.99 a month.
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