AceShowbiz -

Constantin Film has delayed principal photography on "The Mortal Instruments: City of Ashes", which was supposed to be a sequel of "The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones" adapted from Cassandra Clare's successful fantasy novels. Production was supposed to begin next week, but it's now put on a break indefinitely.

The decision was made on heels of the disappointing result of the first movie released late summer this year. Starring Lily Collins and Jamie Campbell Bower, it only opened to $9.3 million in its debut weekend in North America and entered box office at the third place. Domestically, it reportedly raked in less than $30 million so far against budget of $60 million.

"Constantin Film has a long tradition of adapting books to the big screen. Pushing back the start of production of City of Ashes was a decision we did not take lightly," said producer and Constantin exec Martin Moszkowicz. "After speaking with all of our partners on the creative and distribution side, it was clear that it will be beneficial to have more time to reposition the film in the current market place."

He added, "While taking Cassandra Clare's vision to the screen we want to make sure to draw on the full potential of the franchise."

The second movie was supposed to see Collins reprising her role as teenager with supernatural powers Clary Fray and Bower returning as Shadowhunter Jace. The sequel was to be directed by "City of Bones" helmer Harald Zwart with Sigourney Weaver being signed on to play the leader of the Shadowhunters.