‘Barbershop 3’ set; let’s hope it returns to Chicago

Things are moving quickly for “Barbershop 3,” the third film in the popular franchise that hopefully will again be made in Chicago — as the first two movies were.

In an email Thursday morning, producer Robert Teitel would only say, “we are still working out production schedules,” when I asked if Our Town would again be the filming locale.

As Deadline.com reported, New Line is teaming up with MGM for this second sequel, with deals being inked for stars Ice Cube and Cedric the Entertainer to reprise their roles. Malcolm D. Lee (“The Best Man”) has agreed to direct the third “Barbershop” flick, and there are ongoing negotiations with Queen Latifah and Nicki Minaj to be part of the ensemble cast.

Teitel’s longtime producing partner, George Tillman Jr., will also be back wearing his producer’s hat as well. The two filmmakers met during their years studying at Columbia College Chicago.

The first “Barbershop” movie grossed $75 million after it was released in 2002. The 2004 sequel grossed $65 million.