The world of '80s action cinema is a treasure trove of untold stories, and one such tale that could have been is the sequel to the iconic film, 'Commando.' Imagine a world where Arnold Schwarzenegger's John Matrix returned to our screens sooner than we thought, and the potential for pure, unadulterated action was limitless.
The Lost Sequel
Screenwriter Steven E. De Souza, the mastermind behind the original 'Commando,' had a vision for a follow-up that would have kept the adrenaline pumping. The script, which has since surfaced online, is a tantalizing glimpse into what might have been.
In this sequel, Matrix, having retired from the army after his explosive adventures, becomes a security consultant. He's hired by a seemingly legitimate corporation to provide top-notch security, but little does he know, he's walking into a web of deceit and illegal arms dealings. The plot thickens as Matrix discovers the true nature of his employers and finds himself up against the very guards he hired - a who's who of the meanest, toughest guys around.
A Different Path
What makes this particularly fascinating is the insight it provides into Schwarzenegger's career trajectory. At the time, he was exploring diverse roles, from the intense action of 'Predator' to the comedic 'Twins.' Perhaps he felt the need to diversify his portfolio, or maybe he wanted to challenge himself with different genres. Either way, it's intriguing to consider the path not taken and the potential impact on his legacy.
Rumors and Reality
There have been rumors that this unmade script was the basis for another iconic action film, 'Die Hard.' However, De Souza himself has debunked this theory, stating that the script was never intended for any other project. It's a testament to the versatility of his writing that these two very different films could be linked in the public imagination.
A Missed Opportunity?
As an action movie enthusiast, I can't help but wonder what could have been. 'Commando 2' had all the ingredients for a thrilling ride: the return of a legendary character, a complex corporate conspiracy, and the promise of even more over-the-top action. While we can't change the past, it's fun to speculate on the 'what ifs' of cinema history.
In a world where sequels and franchises dominate, it's a reminder that sometimes the stories that never made it to the screen can be just as intriguing as those that did.
