‘Insidious 3′ Is Dated for April 2015

The new studio model for sequels is to call your release date before you have a cast or crew, and often before you have a script. The latest film to get dated ahead of anything else substantial is 'Insidious 3,' which production company FilmDistrict previously announced would be happening after 'Insidious Chapter 2' opened to $41 million.

What's interesting about this is the film is now scheduled for April 3, 2015. That doesn't seem to be prime release date real estate as April is often a sleepy month at the box office. Though we did see 'Fast Five' do well opening a week before May in 2011, this past year the biggest hit was '42,' which made $95 million, whereas in 2012, the biggest picture was 'Think Like a Man,' which made $91 million. But having more room to themselves is probably the game plan as 'Insidious Chapter 2' opened in September to a $41 million weekend and a $83 million domestic total (worldwide, the film has made close to $150 million).

Also interesting about this: It already has competition as the Keanu Reeves-led 'Passengers' has the same date. 'Insidious 3' doesn't currently have a director as 'Chapter 2' helmer James Wan has moved on to 'Fast and Furious 7,' but it does have a writer as series scripter Leigh Wannell is currently working on the third entry.