The Lost Sequel: Commando 2's Unfulfilled Potential
Imagine a world where the iconic John Matrix returned to the big screen in the vibrant era of the 1980s. It's a tantalizing prospect, and one that almost became a reality.
In the realm of action cinema, few characters are as beloved as Arnold Schwarzenegger's John Matrix in the classic film 'Commando'. This movie, a pinnacle of 80s action, left fans yearning for more. And who could blame them? With its explosive action, memorable one-liners, and Schwarzenegger's charismatic performance, it's a film that demands a sequel.
The Sequel That Almost Was
Enter screenwriter Steven E. De Souza, who, in the late 80s, crafted a script for 'Commando 2'. This sequel, which even had revisions by the esteemed Frank Darabont, promised to deliver more of the adrenaline-pumping action that made the original a hit. The plot, as De Souza revealed, would have shown a retired John Matrix, now a security consultant, uncovering a corporate conspiracy and facing off against an army of foes, including his own hired guards. It's a thrilling premise, and one that would have been a natural evolution for the character.
What I find particularly intriguing is the character development hinted at in this sequel. Matrix, after the events of the first film, gains notoriety and retires, a believable progression for a larger-than-life action hero. This narrative choice adds depth to the character, showing the impact of his past adventures. It's a testament to De Souza's skill that he recognized the importance of character growth in a genre often criticized for its one-dimensional protagonists.
The Die Hard Connection
There's a persistent rumor that the 'Commando 2' script was repurposed for the iconic 'Die Hard' film. However, De Souza vehemently denies this, and I'm inclined to believe him. The plots, while sharing a high-concept action premise, are distinct. 'Die Hard' focuses on a lone hero trapped in a skyscraper, while 'Commando 2' would have seen Matrix battling his way through a corporate conspiracy. The similarities end at the surface level, and it's a testament to De Souza's creativity that he crafted two unique action narratives.
Schwarzenegger's Evolution
By the time the script was ready, Schwarzenegger was already diversifying his portfolio. With films like 'Predator' and 'The Running Man' under his belt, he was exploring different genres, including comedy with 'Twins'. This evolution in his career might explain why 'Commando 2' never materialized. Perhaps Schwarzenegger, like many actors, wanted to avoid being typecast and was eager to showcase his versatility.
The Lost Opportunity
So, should 'Commando 2' have been made in the 80s? Absolutely. The script had all the ingredients for a successful sequel: an engaging story, character development, and the potential for over-the-top action sequences. It would have been a fitting continuation of the 'Commando' legacy, satisfying fans' cravings for more.
However, the film industry is fickle, and sometimes, even the most promising projects don't see the light of day. 'Commando 2' remains a fascinating 'what if' scenario, a lost gem in the annals of action cinema. It's a reminder that the path from script to screen is fraught with uncertainties, and sometimes, the movies we wish for most remain forever in our imaginations.
