Key Takeaways
– Ridley Scott regrets not making sequels to his classic films, Alien and Blade Runner.
– Scott recognizes his role as the creative force behind these franchises.
– He considers his upcoming project, Gladiator II, a chance to accomplish what he couldn't with Alien and Blade Runner.
– Scott initially desired to bring Russell Crowe back in Gladiator II, and has an idea on how to do it.
– Gladiator II is set to hit the theaters on November 15.
Scott's Regrets Over Missed Sequels
Renowned filmmaker Ridley Scott recently revealed his regret about not directing sequels to his acknowledged classics, Alien and Blade Runner. In an exclusive interview with Vanity Fair, he admitted to being “slow out of the starting gate”, not taking up the sequels for the two iconic films earlier in his career. A heavy sense of remorse wells up in Scott's words as he reflects on how he let different directors take the reins of these franchises.
The illustrious director marks himself as the major creative clout behind the Alien and Blade Runner, revealing a desire to see his original vision carried forward consistently. Scott sees more established Hollywood directors maintaining control over their iconic creations, and admits to sadness over relinquishing his own franchises.
Return to Franchises and Regrets
Fast forward 35 years, Ridley Scott got the opportunity to revisit these franchises. He enthusiastically embarked on another Blade Runner project and also on an Alien-related film, Prometheus. However, due to time constraints, he had to hand over the Blade Runner sequel to director Denis Villeneuve. Despite Villeneuve doing a commendable job, Scott couldn't shake off a lingering sense of regret over not directing the sequel himself.
Scott's Joys of Directing Sequels
With his forthcoming film, Gladiator II, Scott feels he's finally able to accomplish what he couldn't with Alien and Blade Runner. The eagerly-anticipated sequel, starring Paul Mescal, follows its highly successful predecessor, the 2000 Oscar-winning Gladiator, which had Russell Crowe in the lead role.
Crowe's Return: A Dream That Wasn't Realized
In an interview with CinemaBlend, Scott shared his initial plans of bringing back Russell Crowe in Gladiator II. He had a unique idea of resurrecting the character through a portal, backed by regular conversations with writer Nick Cave. He envisioned the opening scene with Maximus, Crowe's character, wandering around Styx on the ocean's edge. However, this idea was eventually shelved as Crowe's return in the sequel seems improbable.
Looking Forward: Gladiator II's Release
Despite initial setbacks, Scott remains sanguine about Gladiator II. As fans count down days to the film's anticipated release on November 15, the legendary filmmaker hopes that the sequel will match, or even surpass, the immense success of its predecessor. As he embarks on his first sequel of an original creation, this new journey holds special significance for Scott personally and professionally.
Bottom Line
Ridley Scott's ‘missed sequels' confession valves an interesting insight into the inner workings of Hollywood hierarchies and the creative tug of wars between original creators and franchise caretakers. While regrets linger over past decisions, one can't deny that Scott's creativity and masterful storytelling continue to be a pinnacle in the world of cinema. Fans wait with bated breath for Gladiator II, marking it as another milestone in Scott's illustrious filmography.
