The Lost Sequel: What If Commando 2 Had Happened?
What if I told you that one of the most iconic action films of the ’80s almost got a sequel—and it wasn’t just a cash grab? Personally, I think the idea of Commando 2 is more than just a nostalgic 'what-if'; it’s a fascinating glimpse into how Hollywood’s action genre could have evolved. The original Commando is a masterpiece of pure, unapologetic action—Arnold Schwarzenegger as John Matrix, a one-man army with a penchant for one-liners and a body count that rivals a small war. But what makes this particularly fascinating is the idea that a sequel, penned just two years after the original, could have explored deeper themes like notoriety, corporate corruption, and personal transformation.
From Hero to Security Consultant: A Missed Evolution
One thing that immediately stands out is the planned character arc for John Matrix. In the unmade Commando 2 script, Matrix retires from the army, becomes a security consultant, and grapples with the consequences of his fame. This isn’t just a retread of the first film; it’s a character study disguised as an action flick. What many people don’t realize is that action heroes of the ’80s were rarely given this kind of depth. Matrix’s transition from soldier to civilian, and his eventual realization that the corporation he’s protecting is a front for illegal arms dealing, adds layers to a character who could have easily been left as a two-dimensional killing machine.
If you take a step back and think about it, this setup is almost prophetic. In an era where corporate malfeasance and the blurred lines between security and corruption dominate headlines, Commando 2 could have been ahead of its time. Instead of just blowing things up, Matrix would have been forced to confront the moral ambiguities of his new role. This raises a deeper question: why do we so rarely see action heroes grapple with the consequences of their actions?
The Frank Darabont Touch: A Script Worth Revisiting
A detail that I find especially interesting is the involvement of Frank Darabont, who revised the script. Darabont, known for his work on The Shawshank Redemption and The Walking Dead, isn’t exactly the first name you’d associate with a ’80s action sequel. But his touch likely added a level of nuance that could have elevated Commando 2 from a simple shoot-’em-up to something more thoughtful. What this really suggests is that even in the most unlikely places, great storytelling can emerge—if given the chance.
The Die Hard Connection: Fact or Fiction?
There’s a persistent rumor that the Commando 2 script was repurposed into Die Hard, another film co-written by Steven E. De Souza. Personally, I think this is a stretch. While both films involve a hero trapped in a high-tech corporate building, the tone and character motivations are vastly different. John McClane in Die Hard is a reluctant hero, thrown into chaos by circumstance. Matrix, on the other hand, would have been a man confronting the consequences of his own choices. What this really highlights is our tendency to connect dots where none exist—a testament to how much we crave narrative continuity in our entertainment.
Why It Never Happened: A Matter of Timing?
By 1987, Arnold Schwarzenegger was branching out. He’d done Predator, The Running Man, and was gearing up for Twins. Another gun-toting action flick might not have been his top priority. From my perspective, this is a missed opportunity, but also a reminder of how Hollywood’s priorities shift. Studios often play it safe, and a sequel that dares to evolve its protagonist might have been seen as too risky.
What If It Had Been Made?
If Commando 2 had been greenlit, it could have redefined the action genre. Instead of just bigger explosions and more one-liners, it would have given us a hero who grows, questions, and adapts. In my opinion, this is what makes the unmade script so compelling—it’s not just a sequel; it’s a statement. It challenges the idea that action films can’t also be character-driven.
Final Thoughts: A Sequel Lost in Time
As I reflect on Commando 2, I can’t help but wonder what could have been. Would it have been a cult classic? A forgotten flop? Or something in between? What makes this particularly fascinating is how it forces us to consider the paths not taken in Hollywood. In an industry that often prioritizes the familiar over the innovative, Commando 2 stands as a reminder of what we might be missing.
Personally, I think the script deserves more than just a footnote in film history. It’s a testament to the potential of action cinema—and a challenge to creators today. If you’re an action fan, give it a read. It’s not just a script; it’s a 'what if' that keeps on giving.
