The Lost Sequel: Commando 2's Near Miss in the 80s
Imagine a world where the 80s action movie landscape was even more explosive! The iconic John Matrix, played by Arnold Schwarzenegger, almost made a comeback in the late 80s, and it's a story worth exploring.
The Sequel That Could Have Been:
The original Commando is a classic, a non-stop action extravaganza that defined the genre. So, the idea of a sequel is tantalizing. Screenwriter Steven E. De Souza, along with the talented Frank Darabont, crafted a script that promised an even bigger adventure. What a missed opportunity!
The plot, as revealed by De Souza, takes an intriguing twist. John Matrix, after his explosive exploits, becomes a security consultant, a role that feels like a natural evolution for the character. But the real genius lies in the setup—Matrix, unknowingly, gets entangled with an illegal arms business, leading to a high-stakes showdown within the very building he was hired to protect. It's a clever reversal of expectations, and one that could have offered a fresh take on the action hero's journey.
Personally, I find this narrative choice fascinating. It's a subtle commentary on the consequences of extreme heroism, where the hero's actions in one film shape their world in the next. This approach adds depth to the character and the world, something many action sequels fail to achieve.
The Timing Conundrum:
The late 80s were a pivotal time for Schwarzenegger. He was branching out, exploring comedies like Twins, and his interest in diverse roles is understandable. However, I can't help but wonder if the timing was just a bit off. The audience's appetite for over-the-top action was still strong, and a Commando sequel could have been a massive hit.
What many don't realize is that the success of a sequel often lies in its timing. Catching the wave of the original's popularity can be crucial, and waiting too long might lead to a missed connection with fans. It's a delicate balance, and in this case, it might have tipped the scales against Commando 2.
The Die Hard Connection:
Addressing the elephant in the room, the Die Hard connection is intriguing. While De Souza vehemently denies any repurposing of the Commando 2 script, the similarities in the plot are hard to ignore. Both stories involve heroes trapped in corporate buildings, fighting their way out. This raises questions about the evolution of action movie narratives and the fine line between inspiration and coincidence.
In my opinion, the Die Hard comparison highlights the challenge of creating unique action scenarios. It's a testament to the creativity of writers like De Souza, who, even with similar setups, can craft distinct and engaging stories.
The Legacy of Unmade Scripts:
Unmade scripts often leave a trail of 'what ifs' and 'could have beens'. Commando 2 is a prime example of a sequel that could have satisfied fans' cravings for more explosive action. It's a reminder that the movie-making process is filled with uncertainties, and sometimes, even the most promising projects don't see the light of day.
As an analyst, I find it intriguing to explore these unfulfilled narratives. They offer a glimpse into the creative process and the business decisions that shape the films we love. Commando 2 remains a fascinating footnote in 80s action history, leaving us to wonder what might have been if the stars had aligned differently.
