Last week, producer Frank Marshall confirmed to Empire that he (and presumably, George Lucas and Steven Spielberg) is moving ahead full steam on a fifth Indiana Jones movie. This was after Shia LaBeouf let the rumor slip to the BBC during the Transformers press tour.
So wait, LaBeouf keeps hedging on doing the fantastic, nuanced Y: The Last Man comic-book adaptation because he doesn't want to do more "Sam Witwicky" type roles--ie, running around being chased by things--but he's all okay with running around being chased by things in another Indiana Jones movie? (He says now he does want to do Y, that he loves the comic, but it's a timing issue with him and director D.J. Caruso.)
Hmmm, could it be that mostly LaBeouf doesn't want to do a movie that won't be a massive summer blockbuster complete with Slurpee-cup tie-ins? Sorry, I know Shia is Erika's boy, but while I like him fine in movies, I'm beginning to think he might be a bit of a punk. A punk with some Mom issues...
But back to our story... It remains very unclear what kind of movie an Indy 5 would be. It would most likely focus on LaBeouf's Mutt character, but would the nearing-70-year-old Harrison Ford be along for the ride? Or just pop up in a cameo? And perhaps more importantly, would Spielberg direct? Those questions remain very much up in the air.
I have a very blase attitude toward the ongoing Indy franchise. Like most geeks my age, I loved Raiders utterly and completely, but have never really connected and felt the magic from any of the sequels. (Let me be clear about this: I love Raiders. It remains joyous cinematic perfection.) Sure, most of them weren't all that magical, but mostly I just wasn't a 14-year-old boy anymore. I thought Last Crusade and Crystal Skull were both perfectly decent, likable action films, but not all that special except for their sturdy, reliable craftsmanship. So a fifth film, with LaBeouf not Ford at its center? Eh, sure... why not...
I'm even more non-plussed (hmmm, have I ever been plussed? Would I have known if I was?) about the news that J.J. Abrams and Tom Cruise have agreed to co-produce a fourth Mission: Impossible film. (The bigger news is that Cruise would be coming back to work with Paramount after his much-publicized break with the studio at the end of that wacky Summer of '06.)
I'm in the process of moving on to a new Tom Cruise phase--one where I'm sort of over the control-freak, creepy smile, Scientology, odd marriage, couch-jumping stuff, and am just sitting back and trying to take him or leave him based on his actual films and performances. It's a daring move on my part, one that requires constant vigilance. I'm just taking things one day at a time...
And to be honest, I have very few overall memories of the first three MI films--I don't remember hating any of them, or really liking them. MI:1 marked the sadly plastic end of director Brian DePalma's one-time exciting career. I remember MI:2 was a bit of John Woo overkill with slo-mo doves. I enjoyed Abrams' MI:3 the most and yet would be hard pressed to describe a single scene to you.
But now I'm on the Abrams bandwagon thanks to Star Trek (well, at least the feature-film bandwagon -- I still need to give Lost another chance some day...), and I'd be happy to test my new Cruise attitude and Abrams love on another Mission: Impossible film. In other words, eh, sure... why not...
So which of these two franchise continuations are you most interested in seeing? Which do you think is a colossally bad idea? And what other franchises are you excited to see getting a restart? Are there any old action franchises out there you'd like to see revived?
(I'll put up a couple redblog polls to this effect in a bit--if you have action-film franchises--old, new, dormant, ongoing--you want to see in the poll, get 'em in the comments now!)
I WOULD LOVE TO SEE A FOLLOWUP TO TRANSPORTER THREE, I LOVE JASON STATHAM, HE IS AN " AWESOME" ACTION STAR, ALL OF HIS MOVIES ARE GREAT !!
Posted by: KAREN L. DRUCKENMILLER | June 24, 2009 at 10:59 AM
I agree with Karen, Transporter is amazing!
I'm actually pretty excited for more MI movies, kind of like James Bond for us girls that don't like James Bond! Although I do enjoy Daniel Craig. Any James Bond before him I can't handle. Yes, even Sean Connery or Roger whoever, and especially Pierce! Uh ya, anyway, back to topic. I could care less about more Indy, I liked them when I was a kid, didn't see the most recent one since everyone I know said how terrible it was. After all the backlash on the last one why would they keep going anyway? Just for more $? Did it really do that well?
Posted by: kristin | June 24, 2009 at 01:37 PM
Look, I'm all for MI:4 - J.J. Abram's has, if nothing else, proven his ability to direct suspense, thrill & most of all: action. Overall, I really like this series (kind of minus MI:2) and would like to see another especially if it is helmed by Cruise/Abrams. Indy 5!?! NOOOOOO WAY!! Can we please get the F off of the Shia LeBeouf train?! Transformers is fine. In fact it is incredible and Shia was pretty good in the most recent outing - keep 'em coming because LeBeouf is NOT the point - but if they go ahead with a Shia led fifth Indy I am boycotting it right now from this point on.
Posted by: Christopher | June 30, 2009 at 10:17 AM
Joss Whedon and the gang really need to keep the Serenity/Firefly story going (on screen, not just in comics).
Also, while "The Golden Compass" didn't really do the book justice, I'd like to see how filmmakers would handle "The Subtle Knife."
Posted by: Xander | June 30, 2009 at 10:21 AM
How about a follow up to "Rounders"?
Posted by: Dan | June 30, 2009 at 10:28 AM
Ugh, Indy, let the series die while it still has some dignity.
Posted by: Kate Smith | June 30, 2009 at 10:51 AM
gotta have another Bourne movie!
Posted by: conik | June 30, 2009 at 11:32 AM
MAD MAX, JURASSIC PARK, AND JOSS WHEDON'S SERENITY!!
Posted by: Brad | June 30, 2009 at 11:50 AM
An Indiana Jones Movie without Indiana Jones?... Does anyone else see something wrong with that picture?
Posted by: Miah | June 30, 2009 at 11:58 AM
Enough of Bourn movies...they are silly!!!! I'd rather see another indie movie..or even another jurassic park
Posted by: Renee | June 30, 2009 at 12:04 PM
Ohh man, another Bourne movie would be sweet but... I've read the 4th Bourne book (not by Ludlum) and it sucked. So maybe that's just a fore-shadowing of what a 4th movie would be like.
Posted by: Ethan | June 30, 2009 at 12:11 PM
To be frank, in my opinion a 5th Indiana Jones sequel is a colossical blunder waiting to happen. After the disappointment of the 4th, why the heck would they try for a fifth? Hollywood is probably losing their vision of what defines a great movie. Mission Impossible 4 would be good if Tom Cruise is up for it.
Posted by: Anonymous | June 30, 2009 at 12:28 PM
Hey if they're going to keep reviving great action series. I wouldn't mind seeing another Lethal Weapon. I'm not real sure how marketable Mel Gibson and Danny Glover are at this point, but I'd watch it.
Posted by: Jay | June 30, 2009 at 12:53 PM
Xander and Brad! Why must you hurt me so?!?! To even hint at the idea of an ongoing Serenity franchise... sob... Of course I agree--my god, the Firefly/Serenity franchise was so good, and so ripe with rich mythology to fuel several more feature films. But it is not to be--the film Serenity just never got the viewers it needed to make a financial case for survival.
Now if any of you have heard otherwise, let me know... I know two years ago various stars and Whedon were hinting that if the DVD sales were super hot, a sequel could be possible, but clearly Whedon has his plate full with numerous other projects these days, sadly none of them involving Browncoats.
Posted by: Locke Peterseim | June 30, 2009 at 01:05 PM
bacon bacon, like another Tremors bacon
Posted by: girolahozz | June 30, 2009 at 01:11 PM
So here's a general follow-up question that some of you have been hinting at:
How do you feel about continuing franchises with new stars? Miah mentioned the absurdity of an "Indiana Jones" movie without Indiana Jones. ("Mutt Jones"? Doesn't really have the same ring, does it?) And what about a new Lethal Weapon movie in which Gibson and Glover are mostly on the sidelines as a new pair of cops takes over?
(Obviously this isn't as much of an issue in franchises where the "stars" of the films are not human: Jurassic Park, Alien, Predator, Jaws, even Transformers--yes, someday the Transformers franchise will be chugging along without Shia!)
On the other hand, as Clint Eastwood proved this winter, there's still room--and an audience--for films that center on heroes well into their '70s. Why couldn't Ford, Gibson, and Glover still carry the center of an action film? However, Gran Torino was not really an "action" film by any definition.
Of course, we know the answer to this: Hollywood is obsessed with youth, and with catering to the 13-23-yr-olds. And looking at the box-office, you can see why: recently a number of decent adult films like State of Play and The Soloist have flopped because they didn't pander to the youth market. (Or because in rough times, people want to see lighter, easier movie fare).
So which do you prefer?:
--continue a franchise with the original stars, no matter how old they are
--introduce new, younger characters (a la Mutt in Indy 4) to carry the torch
--reboot the franchise with younger actors playing the old, familiar characters (as the Bond series does, as the Jack Ryan series tried to do with Affleck in Sum of All Fears)
Posted by: Locke Peterseim | June 30, 2009 at 01:17 PM
Of all the movies mentioned in the article, the only one I have an interest in seeing a sequel to is "Star Trek". Indiana should have ended with "Last Crusade". As far as MI goes, I slept through most of the first one, and never bothered with the rest. If they want to continue the Indiana franchise as "Son of Indiana" or something to that effect, I guess that's for a younger generation to decide on, but I for one think instead of dragging out series' that should be retired, we need some new, fresh ideas.
Posted by: Jedigirl77 | June 30, 2009 at 01:28 PM
Jedigirl, I think Star Trek is the ONE franchise we can COUNT on continuing (thankfully) for at least several more films.
Posted by: Locke Peterseim | June 30, 2009 at 01:39 PM
Sad to say but movies are going the same way as Saturday morning cartoons. Some of the more notable movies aren't coming from Hollywood. They're coming from independent studios. Even the big name stars are doing indie projects outside of Hollywood.
To prolong a series name just for a reliable cashflow does not make for good business. After a while people are going to catch on and stop going (at least you would hope so) and they're going to have to find something new to fill the void. We need more originality and stop rehashing the same storylines. To make another Indy or M:I movie would just be taking the same formula and putting a new coat of paint on it. In the end you're still watching the same movie as the first time you watched the first movie.
Posted by: Mark | June 30, 2009 at 01:49 PM
Yeah, Locke I think you're right, and I'm just hoping further installations are as great as the first one, because I thought it was amazing!
As far as your question from above... I would have to say that to me it wouldn't really matter which of the 3 options they used, so long as the script is good. When a franchise gets to the point where they're just stretching and struggling to get a new plot, it just needs to be retired. Old actors can do a great job with a great script. To me it's the story that's really important!
Posted by: Jedigirl77 | June 30, 2009 at 01:49 PM
Indy 5 without "Indy" is kind of like the old Wendy's commercial, "Where's the Beef?!" What is all this hype about Shia LaBeouf, anyway. He's an okay actor, but I'm kind of over it. I love Steven Spielberg, but his obsession with LaBeouf needs an intervention!
I enjoyed all three of the MI movies, and would be interested in a 4th installment. Even though I think that Tom Cruise is a control freak, and is creepy and more or less crazy, he's still a good actor, and plays Ethan Hunt quite well. If Paramount is willing to give him a second chance (and believe me, they'll invest much more on him than I ever will), then who am I to argue?
Posted by: twinz1303 | June 30, 2009 at 02:00 PM
Back To The Future
Posted by: Photomatt83 | June 30, 2009 at 02:09 PM
I added a link to the Action Franchise poll we ran last week, and I added the Bourne films to the poll (oops! completely forgot them first time around!), so if you're a big Bourne fan, follow the link at the end of the article (or at the top of the page) to the Action Franchise poll and vote!
http://blog.redbox.com/redblog/2009/06/what-action-franchises-do-you-want-to-see-continue.html
Posted by: Locke Peterseim | June 30, 2009 at 02:10 PM
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!! DON'T MAKE INDY 5.... i grew up watching the indiana jones movies and i loved them, and then one of the directors decided to put his love of outer space into the movie......Hmmmmm wonderwho that was ......and yeah.......they didn't need to do that......please don't butcher a classic anymore.......unless it's like bourne 3 where it was an apology for the previous movie in the series being sooo bad...... then i would watch
Posted by: S | June 30, 2009 at 02:13 PM
I want to see another Fletch Movie!
Posted by: Cliff | June 30, 2009 at 02:35 PM
i agree with S. The crystal skull was boring. I have seen the other Indy movies a lot but the last one i couldn't keep my attention on the movie. If no Harrison Ford as the main character i wont see it. I'm not that fond of LaBeouf's acting, maybe it was just the storyline of transformers but it didn't like him so I don't think he is ready to be Indy if that's the plan, only as a side kick to Harrison. Is it just me, or are the movie makers having a hard time coming up with new decent ideas?
Posted by: Bryan | June 30, 2009 at 02:42 PM
What about an remake of all of the James Bond movies...Remake JURASSIC PARK....Remake Star Wars...Can it be better? I bet it can.
Posted by: Barry Nicol | June 30, 2009 at 02:54 PM
It was my favorite cartoon as a kid. Johnny Quest! Just of old times sake. My sons say that the Wheel of Time books would be awesome but are so large you couldn't make a movie out of them. However, I think the movies I would most like to see would have to be "The Dragonriders of Pern" books. I think Peter Jackson would give them justice and they are as exciting and new as anything I can think of.
Posted by: Kelly | June 30, 2009 at 02:57 PM
Indy 5 - No (especially without Ford)
MI4 - Definitely! MI3 was the best yet and Abrams is on a role. Cruise is still a great actor despite his PERSONAL life.
Someone mentioned rebooting the Mad Max franchise...that could be cool.
I can't wait for Rambo 5! the 4th was a bit gruesome, so if stallone tones it down a notch it will be sweet. Expendables is gonna be incredible!
Posted by: Devin | June 30, 2009 at 03:01 PM
If I had to choose I would much rather see another "Indy movie" with a new guy playing the lead character than another Mission Impossible, I don't remember what they were about but I do remember Raiders of the Lost Ark, is my point. As for the Bourne franchise, they are some of the most realistic action movies I have ever seen...not as cheesy far fetched(story line) Hollywood style like the movie "Taken", for example. Though I don't know if it could still be good without a book like the first three had written by Robert Ludlum. The new Star Trek was good, in my opinion, vs. Transformers 2 which was all about eye candy.
Posted by: mu5h1n | June 30, 2009 at 03:05 PM
Star Trek, Transporter, Fire Fly/Serenity, Dune, Ghostbusters, The Fly, Beverly Hills Cop, 48 Hours.
Posted by: V | June 30, 2009 at 03:10 PM
Please please please don't bring back Indy. As everyone has said, there was something special about the originals that we all know and love... doing a 4th may have been a good idea, but it still wasn't, earth shattering.
If you're going to bring something back after it's been gone for so many years, at least make it BETTER than its predecessors... or attempt to.
Star Trek did a decent job of doing that, I thought.
I'm game for an MI4 tho!!! Love those movies. And they don't have 20 years between releases :)
Posted by: Sara Westafer | June 30, 2009 at 03:12 PM
I have to agree with the whole Firefly/Serenity thing. FOX murdered Firefly when they aired it out of order and refused to advertise it properly. Serenity was supposed to be a conclusion, but they obviously left it open for more, specifically the fact that the Preacher's past is still shrouded in mystery. However with the actors all spread out on other projects like Chuck and Castle, I don't see a resurrection of our beloved little Firefly any time soon. Joss Weddon, I'm sorry this one collapsed on you.
Posted by: redemption2 | June 30, 2009 at 03:20 PM
MI 4 may be interesting but knowing what Indy 5 may be like...I'd have to go with a negative on that one. Don't believe me, just listen to the other ideas Lucas and Spielberg were gonna go with for the fourth installment, which still wasn't that good in the special features of the fourth film. I'd hate to say it but Lucas and Spielberg are getting too old to come up with an original and exciting screenplay. Plus, could you really see LaBeouf as the new Indy...I didn't think so either.
Posted by: Chase | June 30, 2009 at 03:23 PM
Has any one here seen Tropic Thunder? By far my favorite role for Tom Cruise I didn't think he was capable of being so funny! Why not make a movie just based on his character Les and all the crazy movie mogul people he worked with? Let Ben Stiller make it since he did Tropic Thunder OMG it would be hilarious!!!
Posted by: annonymous | June 30, 2009 at 03:28 PM
The resurrection of Fletch has been kicking around Hollywood for more than a decade. At one point Kevin Smith was going to do Fletch Won, possibly with Jason Lee as Fletch, but Miramax balked at the then unknown (pre-Earl) Lee as the lead...(Weinstein wanted either Ben or Matt, giving a nice ironic twist to the joke in Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back--made by Ben Affleck--that Miramax would probably get "Ben Affleck and Matt Damon" to play Bluntman and Chronic, as "they put those guys in everything."
Then in the mid-'00s, Scrubs creator Bill Lawrence was to direct Won, with Zach Braff as Fletch.
The most recent variation would be Accepted (the Justin Long college comedy) and Hot Tub Time Machine (the upcoming comedy all-star fest) director Steve Pink at the helm, maybe with Joshua Jackson as Fletch.
Posted by: Locke Peterseim | June 30, 2009 at 03:32 PM
I have a humble suggestion: in regards to indiana jones, Why not do a prequel to raiders? the adventures of young IJ were teaming with rich storylines. The thirties proved to be a bit more exotic for this type of adventure. If Ford is too old, use him for a flash forward and spend the rest of the movie back where we want indy, in the middle of nazi occupied africa! Raders was untouchable, but we're not gonna capture that magic by passing the torch to louis stevens!( don't get me wrong, I like shia. He's just not Ford) It worked for James Bond. I think it could work for Indy too. as far as Mi4. I have no beef with cruise or abrams. Let um do their thing andi'm sure it will be fun.
Posted by: Indyjack | June 30, 2009 at 03:36 PM
Barry Nicol,
I've actually ALWAYS begged for the core Bond films, the ones based on the books, to be remade and I'd hoped they would with Craig, but that doesn't seem likely now. Of course I also wanted them remade as '50s-'60s PERIOD pieces...
(see my piece on it from last November: http://blog.redbox.com/redblog/2008/11/no-mr-bond-i-ex.html)
And it's funny but I was JUST thinking yesterday that SOMEDAY there WILL be a Star Wars remake... maybe 20 years, maybe 40 years, but someday, probably after Lucas is gone, it WILL get remade. So will Raiders... I know it sounds like blasphemy, but it'll happen.
And honestly, I'm not sure a Star Wars remake a few decades down the road wouldn't be the WORST idea ever. For every bit that is wonderful and that we cherish about those original six films, we have to admit there are SO many places where Lucas made poor and shoddy choices, both in specifics (cutesy Muppet characters) and in general (ah, to see the Clone Wars and the Fall of Anakin done RIGHT!). Be fascinating to see a new generation of creative folks try their hand at reshaping the whole mythos (the key being that they would have to be good, creative folks...)
Posted by: Locke Peterseim | June 30, 2009 at 03:40 PM
"Has any one here seen Tropic Thunder? By far my favorite role for Tom Cruise I didn't think he was capable of being so funny!"
Anonymous, I've always insisted that Cruise's BEST roles were Tropic Thunder and Magnolia because those are the rare times we're seeing the REAL Tom Cruise on screen!
Posted by: Locke Peterseim | June 30, 2009 at 03:42 PM
Indyjack,
Well of course technically Temple of Doom IS a prequel, but I hear what you're saying...
You know what I was most disheartened by in Indy 4 Crystal Skull? That government interrogation scene where they refer to all the work Indy did for the US as a spy during WWII. Now THAT is a movie or four I would LOVE to see! Indy and pals sneaking all over the world from 1939 to 1945!
Posted by: Locke Peterseim | June 30, 2009 at 03:45 PM
How about Star Wars Episodes 7, 8, and 9?
Posted by: MR | June 30, 2009 at 03:50 PM
firefly FireFly FIREFLY. More Bourne would be fine. As with ANY film, the script is what separates the wheat from the chaff, so either Indy or MI followups would depend on that. Completely agree with the musings on Raiders vs later Indy offerings. The last one was very poor.
Posted by: Loachdriver | June 30, 2009 at 04:03 PM
I would love to see Arnold reprise the role of Eraser when he leaves office. I think that storyline of witness protection could go plenty of intriguing directions.
Posted by: Joren Christensen | June 30, 2009 at 04:12 PM
Oh, and I will also add "True Lies" to my previous "Eraser" comment. I thought both of those movies could have had great sequels.
Posted by: Joren Christensen | June 30, 2009 at 04:18 PM
Someone mentioned the old Saturday Morning Cartoons. I would love to see maybe ThunderCats, or a well done He-Man (not that old knock off crap with Dolph Lundgren). The Comic Book/Cartoon/Superhero thing is far from overdone in my opinion, and I think many agree based on the box office sales of nearly every movie of the genre that has come out in the last few years (Spider Man, Fantastics, Iron Man, etc.). The new GI Joe could tell Hollywood if it's worth their money to try some more 80's pop culture redos.
I really like the ideas of another Bourne, Jurassic Park, MI, and Indy. I think the best way to continue some of these franchises is to do the 'prequel' thing. ie, get a young fresh talent and make them the main character in their early days. Much like they did with the newest installment of Star Trek. I could stand another Star Wars, too. Oh, and all the XMen they can churn out...a personal favorite and another example of a prequel (Wolverine).
Posted by: Brandon T | June 30, 2009 at 04:18 PM
Can someone maybe make a movie that is original and NOT a remake or sequel????? Creativity seems to be shot these days.
Posted by: Tony | June 30, 2009 at 04:35 PM
I agree with the other posters....please, no more Indy films...especialy if there's no Harrison Ford...if that's the case...bring on another Star Wars flick...like, after Jedi...I would love for them to finally make the sequel to The Sword and Sorcerer....how about another Close Encounters....I'd like to see Dreyfuss come back from space....hmmm....do another Gremlins...while we're at it, why not do another Flash Gordon....shoot...why not go for the real gusto and let's do another...well you get my drift...lol
Posted by: Andrea Means | June 30, 2009 at 04:42 PM
The unfortunate thing here, is that we've all seen the best Man can produce (the highway system, not a movie...the actual highway system) and we've seen the worst Man can produce (Indiana Jones 4). Indiana Jones 4 is such a terrible movie, that I can't even describe it as an outlier among other movies. Yet, Locke, you have the audacity to honestly say "Eh, sure, why not?." To another Indiana Jones movie? "Eh, sure, why not?" is exactly what is giving these production companies incentive to continue making the piles of garbage you keep saying "Eh, sure, why not?" to. For ten dollars. You seem like the type of guy who has "League of Extraordinary Gentlemen," "Mummy Returns, and "I Heart Huckabees" on Blue-ray. You probably think you have a great eye for good film because you really like "The Usual Suspects." I think you're a butthole. I think you do too.
Posted by: David | June 30, 2009 at 04:44 PM
LaBeouf is way over-rated and he is one of the major reasons the last Indy film sucked. He has no acting ability and the his annoying "tough-guy" attitude doesn't fool anyone.
I think J.J. Abrams is another person in the film industry that is over-rated. He had a couple of really great projects there for a while until he abandoned them for bigger and better things. He left the shows suffer and the fans missed out on some potentially really good developments in the shows that made Abrams, like ALIAS and Lost. Another M:I movie wouldn't be bad, but shouldn't be a re-harsh of things that have already been done. The last one was okay, but again, if you were an ALIAS fan, then M:I:3 was stuff that Sidney Bristow had already done.
Posted by: M:I:19 | June 30, 2009 at 04:51 PM
Bad boys. And I'd love to see a prequal to Hancock, so long as his and her characters remain. The Indy movies were always going to end up moving to his son, so yes I think it will be all Shia with Harrison cameos. What I'm really hoping is that Lucas has star wars episodes 7-9 stashed in a vault.
Posted by: Ben | June 30, 2009 at 04:54 PM
Why David, thank you for the kind, thoughtful words! So you think I think you think I'm a butthole, too?
For the record, the point of my "Eh, sure, why not" was more of a resigned giving up--I just can't muster up the strength to vigorously oppose an Indy 5 because frankly the franchise doesn't MEAN much to me anymore, certainly not what it once meant to my 14-yr-old self. On the other hand, I'm willing to give Abrams and Cruise another MI:4 shot.
Clearly this is your first visit to our fine redblogs if you think I'm the kind of guy who laps up mediocrity, LOL! In fact, regular commenter Jason keeps bugging me to re-watch League because my initial response on seeing it in the theaters all those years ago was to instantly forget it. (Despite LOVING Moore's comic books.) Mummy Returns, again, I cannot recall much of a thing about (there were mummies attacking a London bus, right?). But I will say I Heart Huckabees is getting some sort of critical reevaluation from folks around the web these days, so maybe I'll check it out again. Usual Suspects? Sure, I like it just fine as a puzzle box, but don't rewatch it often.
No, I think I have a great eye for good film because not only have I seen a lot of movies over the decades, but I'm really very, very smart and talented and have great taste and a sharp critical mind. Plus, I'm charming and funny. And devastatingly handsome. For a butthole, that is...
Posted by: Locke Peterseim | June 30, 2009 at 04:59 PM
I'll throw in a few winner ideas (flintstones, scooby, godzilla, etc)- hahaha. How about some genius come up with something totally original. Indy without Ford, foolish! Bond.....snore! Bourne...the first was good! MI.....cruise...you don't complete me...you bore me. Come on folks....new exciting....something worthy of the bank loan you'll need to see it!
Posted by: flairchairs | June 30, 2009 at 05:00 PM
Ok I know it wasn't mentioned in this article but what I would LOVE to see is a new Star Wars movie. Maybe going back way before Anakin...some of the old Jedi characters without the cheesy banter. Just some kick butt Jedi action...just a thought!
Posted by: TheForce | June 30, 2009 at 05:19 PM
I would love to know what happens next for The Pirates of the Carribbean.
Posted by: JS | June 30, 2009 at 05:37 PM
Indy 5???????????? Possibly needed to redeem the last one with the interdamitional crap! Under a few conditions
1.Ford has to be mian character! We would probubly enjoy it more with NO Shia!
2.Stick to religious or tribal type artifacts.
3.Don't go so deep into what the characters have been doing or what happened to there relitaves....to much info and took away from the original character!
Posted by: dkterra | June 30, 2009 at 05:52 PM
I would see another Tomb Raider, even though the Cradle of Life was a disappoinment.
I would definitely see another Star Trek, though I would like to see the Next Gen cast again. The problem I had with the most recent Star Trek is how the technology looks much more advanced than in the original series. It just felt like it didn't flow right. The actors were great, but the movie didn't feel like it came before the series.
Bourne is done. There is no more good storyline.
I can't stand Tom Cruise anymore. I won't see anything with him in it. Valkyrie seemed like a good movie, but I couldn't stand to go since it was Tom Cruise. However, an MI with a new actor may be intruiging if they got the right actor.
I think Pirates may have another movie left in it with the right scriptwriter. There has to be a million pirate stories out there to write.
Not so sure about Jurassic Park though. The story would be hard to write. I would probably see it, though maybe not till it came out on DVD.
Posted by: DisneyHouseDad | June 30, 2009 at 06:03 PM
I would like to see another "Bad Boys" film. I have seen both numerous times, and the way Smith and Lawrence compliment each other is amazing. The "Mad Max" series would be interesting if remade with today's technology. The "Back to the Future" series should be left alone. Those movies are still good even by today's standards. If we go as for "redoing" a series, how about a new "Conan The Barbarian"?
Posted by: Stonemiser | June 30, 2009 at 06:14 PM
Without a doubt, another Boondock Saints & Bourne movie. MI:4 could be great, no Indy if no Harrison.
Posted by: Rich | June 30, 2009 at 06:26 PM
With Star Wars, I FIRMLY believe the BEST way to get GOOD new Star Wars content is to keep George Lucas AWAY from it. (As we've discussed here at redblog before, the new Clone Wars series is made for kids and dumbed down a bit, but has some REALLY great action scenes.) Sure, I'd love to see a new trilogy, but only after Lucas has handed over BOTH the writing and directing duties to younger film makers.
As for a new Pirates, you're going to get that--a fourth film is in pre-production with Depp, though probably not with Bloom or the Sexiest Tomboy Beanpole on the Planet.
And DisneyHouseDad, I'm with you on the dislike for Cruise the person, but Cruise the actor/persona fit perfectly into Valkyrie--it's a sharp, gripping thriller--I recommend it, even if you have Cruise issues.
And all this talk about Jurassic Park has me kinda drooling to rewatch 2&3 again--it's been a while. JPIII wasn't bad at all, as I recall... I'd be happy to see them keep that series up as long as they kept coming up with new and interesting things to do with the premise and solid, creative writers and directors were involved.
Posted by: Locke Peterseim | June 30, 2009 at 06:29 PM
Indy took on his name rather than being Junior, so why couldn't Shia take on Indiana as his monaker in honor of his father if Ford can't or won't continue? I think Shia can handle the part.
Posted by: Lynda McClellan | June 30, 2009 at 06:36 PM
Definitely MI:4. The last Indy movie was so pathetic I won't even waste my time describing my disgust.
Posted by: Ethan | June 30, 2009 at 06:38 PM
Is anyone going to mention the mother of all franchises? Bond, of course! Craig brings such a raw guttural intensity that keeps "old faithful" fresh and exciting. I love the rough edges and the darker aspect. Quantum will be tough to top, but I can't wait for them to try. Keep 'em coming...
Posted by: Chris | June 30, 2009 at 06:45 PM
Tell Eddie Murphy to stop making the horrible comedies/"kids" movies that keep flopping an get back to what made him great, Beverly Hills Cop.
Posted by: Chinese Doug | June 30, 2009 at 06:57 PM
I think hollywood has run out of ideas and are reaching to make money. With indy 5 they are reaching way too far. The 4th one sucked so bad that i fell asleep in the theatre. If hollywood wants to get the movie industry going, here a good hint how to do that. Game-to-movie. You know how many gamers there are out there today? Its rediculous, people spend hundreds of dollars online gaming. Look at the (in my opinion) world of warcraft craze. People pay monthly just to play that game. There are some highly successful games out there that I think would make a killing in the box office. Titles such as Rainbow Six Vegas, Diablo, Oblivion elder scrolls, Half Life, Metal Gear Solid, i could go on and on. They did a game-to-movie with resident evil and that EXPLODED in the box office. Hell they got movies out of 1 game. Granted the 3rd one sucked, but it still made crazy profit. Look into more game-to-movies, and im sure you will get people into the theatres. Who wouldnt wanna see a movie about a game they spend countless hours playing?
Posted by: Randy | June 30, 2009 at 06:57 PM
More Blade Runner, Riddick, Predator, Aliens, and Max. While we are at it let's do a sequel to "The Rundown", I found that extremely entertaining.
Posted by: Mike Anderson | June 30, 2009 at 06:59 PM
Mission Impossible 4? Yeah, I'd be cool with that, I like the third one. Indy 5? Sheesh! Why are they doing this to us?! Personally, I wish Hollywood would make more book-based movies instead of recycling classics until they and the audience get worn out. I bet there's loads of great books that could make great movies, and someone needs to get to work making them. (As long as they give the story the glory it deserves. I didn't feel that the "Eragon" movie--which is a wonderful book--was taken serious enough)
Posted by: Jacob Gibson | June 30, 2009 at 07:11 PM
How about a movie version of Alias with Jennifer Garner? It was a great show that ended too soon, she could be the new female American Bond.
Posted by: John Simonetti | June 30, 2009 at 07:24 PM
Don't know how they would do it, but would love another Ronin or Heat with DeNiro. They were awesome.
Posted by: Jason | June 30, 2009 at 07:29 PM
I agree with sequels as long as they are done right, not just slapped together to make money for the name sake.
As for some of the comments about bringing back or rather remaking, I wouldn't mind seeing The Flash redone as what was done earlier did not give the character justice.
Posted by: Sonny Jermeay | June 30, 2009 at 07:51 PM
star trek!!!!!!!! been a fan 4 ever saw new one loved it they have a whole new way to go with new one young krik spock mccoy scotie (spelled wrong) they were great yes more
Posted by: bobontnis57 | June 30, 2009 at 07:58 PM
I love the Riddick, Ronin, & HEAT ideas for sure!(Heat would def. be tough to pull off, maybe a prequel? But Riddick for sure, call me crazy but I even think the XXX franchise could have been much more successful if Vin Diesel would have signed on for #2.) Hollywood should definitely consider resurrecting the DVD hit Boondock Saints, that movie never got enough credit for how popular it became outside the box office. Daniel Craig as Bond is AWESOME and I can't wait for more. Matt Damon as Jason Bourne is one of the most entertaining characters and I LOVE those movies... can't get enough. I don't know about going off of the 4th book "The Bourne Legacy" by Eric Van Lustbader (def. not Robert Ludlum quality,) but the idea of Jason Bourne and his story could be very creatively turned into a series such as Jack Ryan or James Bond, let alone just a 4th movie.
Posted by: Rich | June 30, 2009 at 08:11 PM
Ben, I wanted to jump back to your comment about a Hancock prequel -- while I felt Hancock the MOVIE fell a bit short (esp. with the Charlize Theron stuff), I agree that Hancock the CHARACTER worked well and could carry a prequel, esp since it would get out from under all that heavy "angel" stuff that derailed the film.
Posted by: Locke Peterseim | June 30, 2009 at 08:56 PM
I tell ya, I need to do a piece one of these days on the whole Boondock Saints thing! That is one crazy, messed-up, weird sort of politically off-the-charts film, full of the sort of stuff you'd expect to see in a really cheesy drive-in vigilante exploitation flick--plus, on top of all that is all the BACK story about the director, his ego, his brief rise to fame, etc.
I was barely aware of it until I saw Overnight, the documentary about director Troy Duffy. Then I sought out BDS and watched it and... woah...lol
And yet, it has this HUGE and VERY passionate cult following... it's really a very interesting phenomenon.
Posted by: Locke Peterseim | June 30, 2009 at 09:02 PM
Battlestar Galactic on the big screen - now I'd see that.
Posted by: deb | June 30, 2009 at 09:04 PM
Diesel and director David Twohy have often talked about getting back to the Riddick series--and the success of Fast and Furious might help the cause. There is also a third xXx film in development, with Diesel returning to the franchise.
Heat, hmmmm... not so sure about that one! I agree, the film is amazing, but I think it works best as a character study--to try to force a prequel out of it would probably dilute the things that made the first great (esp since Pacino and DiNiro's characters could be aware of one another or it would negate the premise of Heat) and fall back on just bigger, louder, more intense gun battles.
I was never a big Alias fan, but I do agree we need a female-centric action franchise back--and since JJ Abrams can do no wrong these days, if he said he could do an Alias feature film, I'd believe him. Maybe Lara Croft, but I never thought those films amounted to much, despite Angelina's obvious screen presence.
And Sonny, I agree that DC needs to swipe a page from Marvel's playbook and do with the League what Marvel is doing with the Avengers: Launch Green Lantern (in pre-production), Flash, and Wonder Woman (long in development hell) franchises and bring them all together in the League, with Superman and Batman (and Martian Manhunter and Aquaman, though we can probably do without those feature films--sorry, Vinnie Chase)... Warners kicked around this idea a few years ago and then shelved George Miller's production with the writer's strike... time to call the League back together! (I'd also like to see Bryan Singer get a second shot at doing a Superman film that was as much FUN to watch as Superman Returns was nice to LOOK at.)
But yes, I agree with everyone: more, more, more Star Trek!!
Posted by: Locke Peterseim | June 30, 2009 at 09:12 PM
Sadly, Deb, you may get your wish... just not the sort of Galactica movie I hope you're thinking of:
http://blog.redbox.com/redblog/2009/02/bring-on-the-geek-news.html
It would be a remake of the OLD series, not the recently concluded NEW one.
Posted by: Locke Peterseim | June 30, 2009 at 09:16 PM
After a sequel gets passed the 3rd blockbuster...I think its time to close the franchise. When ever a movie goes into 4th gear I see it as a horrible "LAND BEFORE TIME" phenomena...like the kids watching it never evolved. I liked the first three of both and the 4th Indi was good, but why get the audience bored with one subject? I mean unless you are James Bond switching characters and proposing true new concepts...I have to say these movies wont be my priority to watch.
Posted by: Fernanda | June 30, 2009 at 10:43 PM
I would like to see another attempt at Battlefield Earth by L. Ron Hubbard. It was a very good read and I think if done right, would be an awesome movie.
Thanks
Posted by: mike | June 30, 2009 at 11:07 PM
Well I just read about Ghost Busters making a comeback. They are going to introduce a younger crowd beside the original. That is perfectly alright with me for many franchise films, as long as the writers do a decent job telling it.
Posted by: William A. | June 30, 2009 at 11:41 PM
As someone already commented, an UPDATED Mad Max. Also, I am a fan of the Bourne films.
Posted by: Saul | July 01, 2009 at 01:53 AM
When I find myself watching a rehashed movie franchise, and clearly, the deeper story elements are not there, I automatically switch gears to my 14 year old self, just to enjoy what I've paid to go see. Frankly, though, as an indy film FX guy, I'd like to see more indy film support to get smart, original material.
Hollywood really needs to look beyond what's already out & hit the library: (some Sci-Fi follows...)
The "Ringworld" series by Larry Niven
The "Chanur" series by C.J. Cherryh
Anything by William Gibson- just get a good director, this time- "Johnny Mnemonic" should have been much better. Maybe someone should do "Neuromancer" or "Count Zero", or even "All Tommorows Parties"
There are plenty of great ideas out there- someone needs to make them happen.
Posted by: Lloyd | July 01, 2009 at 02:26 AM
Dos'nt anyone have a fresh idea in Hollywood? A rehashing of old (used to make money films )is geting to be the norm and they don't work.Will someone please step up and do something origanal or Im going back to watching TV.
Posted by: J.Dunaway | July 01, 2009 at 03:42 AM
I can't want for the next book and movie to come out of
"Twilight", the best books and movie I have seen in a very long time. I hope she keeps putting them out there. But I must say I like it when Edward is in it better then Jacob. I just don't see Jacob with Bella. It does nothing for me at all. She needs to stick to
what works and that is Edward and Bella together always. KEEP THEM COMING!!!!!!!!!! The last two books
took my breath away!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Kate | July 01, 2009 at 07:19 AM
As much as I loved the first and third Indy movies - give it a rest already! MI - couldn't care less. What I am hoping to see soon is "The Real Rock n Rolla" because the first one seriously left me wanting more!
Posted by: RP | July 01, 2009 at 07:39 AM
I just wonder what the future holds in general. We're seeing a shift in movie making these days with all the reboots and whatnot. This can't go on forever.
Hell, my kids love Fruity Pebbles, but have never once watched the Flintstones.
Are we falling into a rut, society/socially-wise? Are we afraid to move on, or can't find anything else we like so we fall back on tried-and-true stuff?
Eventually, nostalgia is going to run out, and a new generation is going to want their own movies and cereal.
Maybe once Speilberg and Lucas are dead, they'll be replaced by a new generation with new ideas. Until then I guess we're stuck with rehashes.
(Though I did enjoy Star Trek immensely, even though I never got into any series past Next Gen, and hardly watched any of the movies except the one with Khan, or that whale they took back through time... or something like that.)
Posted by: John C | July 01, 2009 at 07:53 AM
Lets see a follow up to batman:dark knight. Chris Nolan does a spectacular job and just because heath ledger died doesn't mean the story has to be over. I want to see the riddler or bane reinvented.
Posted by: Wilfred | July 01, 2009 at 08:07 AM
I don't want to jump on bandwagons myself, but I was a fan of Christopher Nolan's work long before he took over the Batman movies, and now the rest of the country knows why. He has turned that franchise into fantastic cinema (albeit with the help of some pretty good acting talent), and I truly can't wait for the third installment--and it's been a long time since I've said that.
Posted by: Steve | July 01, 2009 at 08:45 AM
"Is it just me, or are the movie makers having a hard time coming up with new decent ideas?"
No, but new ideas don't get made unless they're like something already financially successful.
"And honestly, I'm not sure a Star Wars remake a few decades down the road wouldn't be the WORST idea ever."
and
"What I'm really hoping is that Lucas has star wars episodes 7-9 stashed in a vault."
I agree with Locke, Star Wars would be great, but boot out Lucas. What I'd like to see is some of the books turned into movies. There are some incredibly well-written stories in there.
"My sons say that the Wheel of Time books would be awesome but are so large you couldn't make a movie out of them." But look at Harry Potter, it can be done and the stories are much more compelling. I just hope they pull it off well like with LOTR.
"In fact, regular commenter Jason keeps bugging me to re-watch League because my initial response on seeing it in the theaters all those years ago was to instantly forget it. (Despite LOVING Moore's comic books.)" So I'M the butthole?
"Without a doubt, another Boondock Saints"
That would be incredible. It was truly before it's time.
"While we are at it let's do a sequel to "The Rundown", I found that extremely entertaining."
I love you. I'm glad I'm not the only one that loved this movie.
"I didn't feel that the "Eragon" movie--which is a wonderful book--was taken serious enough" How dare you. The book was crap. It was a bunch of recycled and borrowed ideas from really good authors. It was basically Star Wars and LOTR but with dragons instead of x-wings and lightsabers.
"Don't know how they would do it, but would love another Ronin or Heat with DeNiro. They were awesome." -Jason-
I need to change my name, cause that wasn't me. From now on, the real Jason is now Fiirvoen. That's what I use for everything else.
"I tell ya, I need to do a piece one of these days on the whole Boondock Saints thing!" Consider it an assignment! I'd like to see something from you by next week! :P
Posted by: Fiirvoen | July 01, 2009 at 09:51 AM
I'd like to see a new Batman movie. While the Joker is the antithesis of Batman, the Anti-Bat if you will, he isn't always in every episode.
I agree about DC needing to up the ante to compete with Marvel. Also, what about some Dark Horse stuff?
Also, how about some CORRECTLY done Asimov or Heinlein?
Again, I've said it before, Princess of Mars. Seriously. Do it now, Hollywood.
Posted by: Fiirvoen | July 01, 2009 at 09:57 AM
oh, I'd have to agree with Photomatt - my husband would absolutely LOVE to see another Back to the Future!!! Aside from that, start new fresh franchises with new characters from some great books, like maybe some more Jeffery Deaver novels with his Lincoln Rhyme character - enough twists & turns & excitement to do well with more movies. I'm kind of over them trying to stretch out once popular movies & cash in while they think there's $$ there - gives them less credibility when an actually good movie comes along!
Posted by: Laura | July 01, 2009 at 10:56 AM
Yeah I think a 4th MI wouldn't be to bad, But Cruise and Abrams would have to go all out! A 5th Indiana Jones would be a flop at the box office.
Posted by: Aj | July 01, 2009 at 11:27 AM
Speilberg and Lucas have had only a few missteps over the years. I personally had a hard time buying into the ending of Indy 4 (aliens?-come on). But I will replace my trust in them for Indy 5 should it really get made.
Posted by: Rob | July 01, 2009 at 11:33 AM
I can see it now - Mutt Williams and the Geezer of Gloom.
Posted by: mitch | July 01, 2009 at 11:37 AM
nancy drew...i dont think there are enough kid friendly shows anymore. something with a plot and decent actors. that was always something about the older franchises that was nice...indy and star trek was okay for the kids to see.
Posted by: SandyGirl | July 01, 2009 at 12:18 PM
There's something wrong with the posts....the post listed above is not what I wrote...that is being credited by Tony. :) Hey, I won't win any Pulitzer prize for my entry, but all the same...it's not mine. :)
Posted by: Andrea Means | July 01, 2009 at 12:48 PM
Andrea Means, the author of the comment is listed BELOW your comment, below the line, not above -- I know, it's confusing and un-intuitive, and you're not the first to be confused by it, but for now that's the way it's set up. Sorry! But still a great post! Thanks!
Posted by: Locke Peterseim | July 01, 2009 at 01:06 PM
I'd actually like to see J.J. come on board Indy 5! He stayed incredibly faithful to Star Trek, yet through in some unexpected devices. I'm sure he'd do the same for Indy. I agree that "Skull" was definitely my least favorite of the four films, but I don't really have anything else to look forward to film-wise these days. The summer has been pretty much a drag, so...why not...do another one. One thing I have gotten over is the feeling like new movies ruin originals. They don't! The originals still exist. Had Lucas stopped with the first Star Wars, we would have never had Empire. So, go for it - but make Harrison the star. If it is titled "Indiana Jones and the," he better be front and center! He still looked great in Skull, so I think he can definitely do it.
As far as the MI movies go, I've never been a fan. If they make it, I'm sure I'll see it. I'll just be in the back of the line.
I like the Fletch idea, too. But again, I'd still prefer to see Chevy Chase. I think it is the deleted scenes syndrome. Even when I know that they cut them out for a reason, I still want to see them. Same with movies. Another sequel may not be the best thing ever made, but I still want to see my old friends back in action!
Posted by: Unrated | July 01, 2009 at 03:44 PM
First and foremost I'd like to see another Star Wars trilogy. I'd also like to see a new movie franchise from the "Angel/Buffy" TV series.
And since I can't get enough of vampire violence... eh I mean actions I'd also like to see continuation of Underworld and new Blade, preferrably with a kick-ass lead female actress as heroine.
Last but not least, how about another Lords of the Rings trilogy? I enjoyed those too.
Posted by: Roatan | July 01, 2009 at 04:07 PM
As much as I love Indi movies, I wasn't that impressed with the last one -- wasn't into the alien thing. I wish they would've gone somewhere else with that. I like Shii LaBeouf but I think I'd rather watch him in something else.
Posted by: Michelle | July 01, 2009 at 05:25 PM
oh serenity/firefly the sci fi channels best of the best!!!!if they wanna make another indy go for it jus dont rape him like you did in the last one.MI 4 would be super sweet too first 3 were great cant go wrong with ethan hunt!also another 48 hours movie get nick and eddie back for one last run maybe help their careers get back.
Posted by: hobbsm420 | July 01, 2009 at 06:07 PM