Let's dive into a fascinating piece of cinematic history and explore the untold story of a potential 'Commando' sequel that never was. This is a tale of what could have been, and it's a doozy.
The Lost Legacy of Commando
Imagine a world where Arnold Schwarzenegger, the iconic action hero, returned to his role as John Matrix in a sequel to the legendary 'Commando'. It's a tantalizing prospect, isn't it? Well, believe it or not, this almost became a reality in the 1980s.
A Script Ahead of Its Time
Steven E. De Souza, the mastermind behind the original 'Commando' script, had a vision for a follow-up. He crafted a story that would have seen Matrix evolve, dealing with the consequences of his actions in the first film. The script, with revisions by Frank Darabont, painted a picture of Matrix's life post-retirement from the army, running a security firm, and getting entangled in a web of corporate intrigue.
A Hero Trapped
One of the most intriguing aspects of this lost sequel is the idea of Matrix being trapped in a high-tech corporate building. It's a scenario that feels remarkably similar to the iconic 'Die Hard', which De Souza also co-wrote. However, he vehemently denies any connection, stating that the rumor is nothing but 'bullshit'.
The Rumors and the Reality
Despite the similarities, De Souza insists that the 'Commando 2' script was never intended to become 'Die Hard'. It's an interesting claim, especially considering the timing. In 1987, when the script was being developed, Schwarzenegger was exploring diverse roles, moving away from the typical action genre. Perhaps he felt that another action-packed adventure as Matrix wasn't the right move at that time.
A Missed Opportunity?
Looking back, one can't help but wonder: should Schwarzenegger have given 'Commando 2' a go? The script, with its intriguing plot twists and familiar faces, seems like it could have been a thrilling ride. But then again, we can't ignore the potential for creative burnout or the desire for an actor to explore new avenues. It's a delicate balance.
The Power of What-Ifs
What makes this story particularly fascinating is the 'what-if' factor. What if 'Commando 2' had been made? Would it have been a critical success? Would it have launched a new franchise? Or would it have been lost in the shuffle of '80s action movies? These are the questions that keep cinephiles up at night.
In my opinion, the beauty of this lost script lies in its ability to spark our imagination. It reminds us of the countless stories that could have been told, the worlds that could have been explored, and the characters that could have lived on screen. It's a testament to the power of storytelling and the endless possibilities that exist within it.
A Final Thought
As we reflect on the potential of 'Commando 2', we're left with a sense of curiosity and a hint of regret. But, as they say, every story has its time, and perhaps this one was simply ahead of its time. After all, some stories are meant to remain untold, leaving us with a tantalizing glimpse of what might have been.
