Paul Verhoeven’s Starship Troopers was not a bad movie. Sure it has almost nothing to do with the Heinlein novel it’s supposed to be based on, but as an action flick it’s a lot of fun and it’s an adequate, albeit thinly veiled, political commentary as well.

There have been several follow ups to Troopers. Personally, I preferred the animated series “Roughnecks” which started to move Verhoeven’s creation closer to its literary origins. Less interesting was the direct to video sequel Starship Troopers 2: Hero of the Federation. While Phil Tippet may be a legend when it comes to visual effects, the movie doesn’t live up to his legacy.

Sadly, that’s the part of the franchise being continued with yet another direct to DVD sequel: Starship Troopers: Marauder. That’s right. This horse isn’t dead yet. What’s really a sign of his waning career: rumor has it that Casper Van Dien will be back for this one to reprise his role as Rico. You had to know his career wasn’t going to go far after that Tarzan attempt. Want to know more?

According to Cinematical, Screenwriter Ed Nuemeier will direct the third installment which will pair Rico with “FHM’s Sexiest South African,” Tanya van Graan. How’s that for chemistry?

No word on plot (but then the series was never big on that) or an expected date of arrival right now, but production is supposed to be underway already in Australia.

Sigh, Heinlein is spinning in his grave right now, isn’t he?