Released in August 2017, the first installment of Hitman & Bodyguard was a huge success, grossing $183 million worldwide on a $30 million budget. The sequel started quickly; It hit theaters 4 years later in June 2021.
Unfortunately, this second episode, poorly treated by critics, was a bitter failure. Despite the increased resources of 70 million GEL, it could not find its audience. The film barely managed to accumulate its budget: 70 million.
Old fashioned BUDDY movies
Let us remind you that these two action films were directed by the duo Ryan Reynolds and Samuel L. Jackson perform. A successor to old-fashioned buddy movies like Lethal Weapon or 48 Hours, will Hitman & Bodyguard get a third movie to complete its trilogy?
If we rely on the results of the international box office of the second opus, it is unlikely that we will see the characters of Michael Bryce (Reynolds) and Darius Kincaid (Jackson) in the cinema again. While promoting Hitman & Bodyguard 2 in 2021, director Patrick Hughes still played the optimism card.
“Of course the ending of this movie makes Michael Bryce suffer even more and could go on forever because I really enjoy watching Ryan Reynolds suffer.”The filmmaker joked. “If there’s potential to go further, then we’ll definitely go for it”he confided.
Salma of the Demon
For her part, Salma Hayek, who plays the colorful Sonia Kincaid, was also very keen to reprise her role. “I really hope so. If that happens, I know they’ll add another hero.”he explained.
As for Samuel L. Jackson, he was also very optimistic, noting that a great Spanish actor could join the trio. “We already have everything planned. We’re going to have Penelope Cruz be Sonia Kincaid’s sister.”he revealed.
Two years after the release of Hitman & Bodyguard 2, it’s clear that the project for the third episode has been shelved at Lionsgate studios. Additionally, director Patrick Hughes, who we owe Expendables 3 to, has launched an ambitious new project for Netflix, a remake of The Raid. Released in 2011, this extremely violent action film left its mark and featured a martial arts star: Iko Uwais.
With the Hollywood strike coming to an end, Ryan Reynolds is set to resume shooting Deadpool 3 soon. As for Samuel L. Jackson, we’ll find him in theaters on January 31, 2024. He will next appear in Argylle, a spy thriller. Matthew Vaughn (Kingsman).
Source: Allocine
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
