The Lost Sequel: Commando 2's Unfulfilled Destiny
Imagine a world where the 80s action masterpiece Commando had a sequel in its prime era. Well, it turns out this wasn't just a fantasy but a very real possibility!
In the late 80s, legendary screenwriter Steven E. De Souza penned a script for Commando 2, a follow-up to the iconic action flick starring Arnold Schwarzenegger as John Matrix. This revelation is a goldmine for action movie enthusiasts and a fascinating 'what-if' scenario for film buffs.
The proposed sequel, which included revisions by Frank Darabont, takes a unique twist on the original. Instead of a straightforward action extravaganza, it delves into the psychological impact of the first film's events. De Souza intended to explore how John Matrix, after becoming a one-man army and blowing up half of Los Angeles, would deal with newfound fame and the consequences of his actions. This narrative choice is intriguing, as it adds a layer of depth to the typical action hero, something that was relatively rare in the genre at the time.
The plot, as described by De Souza, involves Matrix retiring from the army and starting a security firm. This setup is a clever way to keep the character relevant and active without simply repeating the formula of the first film. It also allows for a more nuanced exploration of the character's skills and motivations.
However, the most captivating aspect is the revelation that Matrix unknowingly works for an illegal arms business, setting up a thrilling scenario where he must confront his own employees and security systems. This twist adds a layer of complexity to the traditional action narrative, making it more than just a mindless shoot-'em-up sequel.
One can't help but wonder why this script never made it to the big screen. Was it a matter of timing? Schwarzenegger, at the time, was exploring different genres, which might have made him hesitant to return to the action genre so soon. Or perhaps the studio had other plans, as they often do.
What makes this story even more intriguing is the persistent rumor that the script was repurposed for the iconic action film Die Hard. De Souza vehemently denies this, but the similarities are hard to ignore. Both films feature a hero trapped in a high-tech corporate building, fighting against all odds. This raises questions about the creative process and the evolution of action movie narratives in the late 80s.
The existence of the Commando 2 script is a testament to the creative vision of De Souza and the potential for more thoughtful action movie sequels. It's a reminder that even the most explosive action heroes can have complex stories to tell. Personally, I can't help but feel a sense of loss for what could have been a groundbreaking sequel, pushing the boundaries of the genre and offering a deeper exploration of a beloved character.
This unmade sequel serves as a fascinating insight into the behind-the-scenes world of Hollywood, where scripts can be written, revised, and shelved, leaving us to wonder about the alternate cinematic universes that might have been.
