Key Takeaways:
– Director Neil Marshall expressed interest in directing a movie from the Predator franchise.
– Marshall narrowly missed being selected as the director for “Predators” in the late 2000s.
– He was among two candidates to visit and meet producer Robert Rodriguez in Texas.
– The acclaimed director envisions a fresh and unique take on the Predator concept.
– Despite director Dan Trachtenberg currently handling the franchise, several filmmakers, including Marshall, are eager to work on a Predator story.
15 years is a long time to wait for a screenplay to get its moment in the spotlight. Back in the mid-90s, that's exactly what happened to cinematic wiz Robert Rodriguez's script for a Predator sequel aptly titled “Predators”. However, the studio decided to put it aside for a while – a duration that ended up being a decade and a half.
Getting the Go-Ahead
Eventually, the day came when the studio felt it was the right time to revisit his scenario and give Rodriguez the opportunity to turn his creation into a feature film. The screen legend rose to the occasion and took on the role of producer. He shrewdly employed the talents of Alex Litvak and Michael Finch to breathe new life into his old blueprint for movie magic.
The Hunt for a Director
With the production set in motion, the attention soon turned to finding the perfect director. Two names popped up as the top contenders. First up was Nimród Antal, renowned for his work on “Control”, “Vacancy”, and “Armored”. Next was Neil Marshall, famous for directing cinematic gems like “Dog Soldiers”, “The Descent”, and “Doomsday”.
Edge of the Recliner Moment
Both of them were summoned to Texas for a meet and greet with Rodriguez. It was a nail-biting, close call. However, after an exciting barbecue rendezvous, Antal was chosen as the director. Marshall was appreciative of the opportunity, even though he wasn't picked, and he hasn't lost hope. More than ten years later, he still aims to make a Predator film one day.
A Fresh Approach to Predators
Speaking with Inverse recently, Marshall revealed his passion for the franchise. He shared, “I would prefer to start from scratch and deliver a fresh take on the Predator concept rather than rehash what has been done.” He even hinted at unique settings and timeline placements for the characters, suggesting scenarios such as predators on Normandy beaches, in deserts, or even pitting predators against ninjas!
Franchise in Good Hands
Currently, 20th Century Studios have handed over the reins of the Predator franchise to “Prey” director Dan Trachtenberg, who is working on a sequel called “Badlands” starring Elle Fanning. But, it seems that there are many other skilled storytellers out there with a burning desire to work on a Predator flick. Among them is Neil Marshall, who views such a project as a dream job, if given the chance.
What would you think of a Predator installment directed by Neil Marshall? Don't hold back, we'd love to hear from you! Share your thoughts below.
