The Old Guard 2: Is Netflix’s Immortal Sequel Still Alive?
Remember The Old Guard from a few years back, that movie about a group of immortal killers-turned-mercenaries? It was a pretty good movie, and it didn’t take Netflix that long to greenlight a sequel. Just one question, though: where the heck is it? It’s not the first movie with a sizable sequel gap, but you wouldn’t be wrong to ask if it even still exists.
Fear not, The Old Guard 2 is still alive and kicking, albeit slowly. According to leading lady Charlize Theron, Netflix didn’t quietly kill the movie when nobody was looking. Talking to Variety, she explained that shooting had actually wrapped back in 2022, but the streamer underwent a “changeover” the movie got stuck between.
Adding to the delays, post-production got shut down just over a month into the process, and then the strikes hit, further complicating things. However, Theron remains optimistic: "We finally picked it back up, and I’m really excited about it."
The last we heard of The Old Guard 2, it was going to be directed by Victoria Mahoney (Lovecraft Country) and added new cast members in Henry Golding (Snake Eyes) and Uma Thurman. Theron emphasized the importance of the sequel: "It’s really important to us. I only wanted to do it if we could make it amazing, and I really love this movie." The first film’s remaining cast members—Kiki Layne, Marwan Kenzari, Matthias Schoenaerts, Chiwitel Ejiofor, Veronica Ngô, and Luca Marinelli—are also expected to return.
The Old Guard is based on a series of comics by Greg Rucka and Leandro Fernández that’s spawned three graphic novels, the last of which dropped in 2021. Netflix apparently wants to turn this into a full-on franchise, and indicated last year the sequel’s ending "demands" they do a third film. Hopefully those plans still come to fruition, and without the nearly five-year gap between installments.
Netflix’s Delay Tactics: A Sign of the Times?
The delays surrounding The Old Guard 2 highlight the turbulent landscape of the streaming industry. The platform’s "changeover" refers to a period of significant restructuring and personnel shifts within Netflix, potentially leading to a shift in priorities and project timelines. This isn’t the first time a streaming platform has held a project hostage due to internal changes. Warner Bros. Discovery faced similar criticism for its treatment of "Batgirl," ultimately canceling the completed film.
The impact of the Writers Guild of America (WGA) and Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) strikes further emphasizes the complexities of the film industry. Post-production, already a delicate stage, was brought to a near standstill during these strikes, pushing back release schedules and impacting numerous projects.
While these delays highlight the challenges faced by the industry, it’s crucial to recognize the dedication of the cast and crew. Charlize Theron’s commitment to The Old Guard 2 is a testament to the enduring power of a strong story and its ability to persevere even amidst uncertainty. The film’s continued existence, albeit delayed, reinforces its potential to become a successful franchise, one that expands on the already compelling narrative and characters.
Exploring Immortality and its Complexities
The Old Guard presents a captivating exploration of immortality, a concept that has fascinated humanity for centuries. It delves into the psychological and philosophical complexities of an eternal life, highlighting the benefits and burdens that come with defying mortality.
The film’s characters, forced to live through countless eras and witness the rise and fall of civilizations, face existential questions about their purpose and the meaning of life. They grapple with the weight of their longevity, the constant struggle to find meaning amidst an endless existence.
The Old Guard explores the profound impact of an immortal life on personal relationships. The characters grapple with the pain of losing loved ones who age and eventually die while they remain unchanged. This creates a sense of alienation and isolation, as they are constantly reminded of the fleeting nature of human existence.
The Old Guard’s exploration of immortality transcends the typical superhero trope, delving into the complexities of human nature and the challenges of living an undying life. It challenges conventional notions of heroism and explores the dark side of immortality, showcasing how eternal life can become a curse as much as a gift.
Anticipating the Future of The Old Guard Franchise
With the return of Charlize Theron and the supporting cast, The Old Guard 2 promises to build upon the foundation laid by the first movie. New additions like Henry Golding and Uma Thurman bring fresh perspectives and potential for expanded dynamics within the group.
The movie’s potential for a third installment, as suggested by Netflix, further solidifies its ambition as a franchise. If The Old Guard 2 delivers on its promise, the continued development of the story could explore the complexities of the immortal characters’ interactions with a world that views them as anomalies.
The Old Guard’s appeal lies in its blend of compelling characters, action-packed sequences, and thought-provoking explorations of immortality. As we eagerly await the release of the sequel, the potential for future installments continues to spark anticipation.
The Old Guard 2’s journey may be paved with delays, but the passion behind the project and the commitment of its creative team fuels hope for a satisfying conclusion to this captivating tale of eternal warriors. Patience, however, is a virtue. Perhaps, in the grand scheme of eternity, these delays are mere blips in the vast tapestry of their existence.
