Just as Columbia Pictures is gearing up for the release of the Da Vinci Code sequel, Angels & Demons on May 15th, the studio has announced plans for the third film, The Last Symbol, which is awaiting publication of the next book in the series.

Dan Brown’s next book will be published in the US and Canada on September 15, 2009 with 5 million copies scheduled for printing in its first run.

The film adaptation of The Da Vinci Code topped the box office when it was released in May 2006 with Ron Howard directing and Tom Hanks starring. The film went on to gross $758.2 million worldwide.

The same team is responsible for the sequel, Angels & Demons; the book on which it's based was originally published in 2006. 

The Last Symbol takes place during a 12-hour period.

—Jessica Delli Santi