The legendary Arnold Schwarzenegger is officially looking to revisit the roles that made him a global icon. At 78 years old, the action star recently thrilled fans at the Arnold Sports Festival in Columbus, Ohio, by confirming he is in active talks to return to the 'Predator,' 'Conan the Barbarian,' and 'Commando' franchises.
During a weekend panel, Schwarzenegger described a massive effort to resurrect his most famous 1980s hits. He specifically pointed to the recent success of the 'Predator' series under director Dan Trachtenberg, who helmed 'Prey' and 'Predator: Badlands.' According to Arnold, Trachtenberg has done such an impressive job that the studio now wants the original star back for the next instalment.
Image Courtesy: IMDb
Arnold Schwarzenegger's Return
The actor shared that Fox Studio has essentially rediscovered his value, approaching him not just for a new 'Predator' film, but with a fresh script for 'Commando 2.' Even more exciting for long-time fans is the news regarding King Conan. Schwarzenegger revealed that the studio has hired the talented writer-director behind Tom Cruise's recent 'Mission: Impossible' blockbusters, Christopher McQuarrie, to write and direct the sequel. This new chapter will follow the events of the original 1982 film and its 1984 follow-up.
While the 'Commando' sequel would see Arnold Schwarzenegger return as the elite special forces soldier John Matrix, the 'Predator' project would finally bring back his character, Dutch. Producers have hinted that getting Schwarzenegger back into the jungle is the ultimate goal for the franchise, noting that the actor and director Dan Trachtenberg have already met several times to discuss the possibility.
Image Courtesy: IMDb
Addressing his age, Arnold Schwarzenegger noted that these new versions of his characters will be age-appropriate. While he still plans to kick some serious butt, the approach will be slightly different to reflect where the characters are now. For example, the story of King Conan finds the warrior after 40 years on the throne.
Having grown complacent, Conan is eventually forced out of his kingdom, leading to a journey filled with conflict, magic, and the classic violence fans expect.
