The latest entry in the ongoing saga that is Disney’s firing of James Gunn from Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, has hit the web today, with the news that Dave Bautista has issued the studio an ultimatum – Use Gunn’s script, or say goodbye to Drax the Destroyer. It’s definitely an interesting predicament for the studio to be in, but the question is whether it’s enough to get Disney’s attention.
For those of you who are unaware of the situation, just over two weeks ago after a heated political debate, several particularly ill-advised tweets made by Gunn almost ten years ago were dragged back to the forefront which eventually prompted the studio to part ways with the director. Since then many figures have come out to rally to Gunn’s defense including the film’s cast who just last week released a joint statement in support of the Slither director.
The actor who seems to have taken the firing to heart the most is definitely Drax actor, Dave Bautista. He has been outspoken in his support of Gunn for the past two weeks but now in an interview with Shortlist he has given the studio a choice. He explained.
“Where I’m at right now is that if [Marvel] don’t use that script, then I’m going to ask them to release me from my contract, cut me out or recast me. I’d be doing James a disservice if I didn’t.”
Whilst it’s sounding less and less likely that Gunn will be given the directing gig back, there should be no reason why they can’t use the script that Gunn turned in back in June. It would go somewhat of the way towards keeping the story as the director initially envisioned. If they don’t choose to use this script however, it would be sad to see Bautista go as his portrayal of Drax has swiftly made him a fan favorite character since his first appearance back in 2014’s Guardians of the Galaxy.
With Avengers 4 currently undergoing reshoots, it would be feasible to film a satisfying ending for Drax the Destroyer should Bautista make good on his threat to walk. In the meantime we can be safe in the knowledge that we get to see the character on screen at least one more time.
What do you think? Will you be sad to see Bautista leave the role? Do you think Gunn’s script should be used? Let us know below!