While reviews currently may be mixed (currently hovering around 48% on Rotten Tomatoes), The Predator is one of my most anticipated films of the fall movie season. The Nice Guy’s writer/director Shane Black is one of the most distinct and humorous voices in Hollywood, and considering his involvement in the original Predator, he clearly knows what it takes to make a film in this franchise work. He understands what Arnold Schwarzenegger means to fans of the film.
It appears that Black may not have been the only original cast member to return to this reboot – at least in initial plans. While it was eventually turned down by the studio, Black originally planned to have Arnold Schwarzenegger return in a cameo role as Major Allen “Dutch” Schaefer. Here’s what Black had to say about the studio’s decision:
“The studio wanted a fresher movie that featured an evolving cast. They didn’t want to hinge the movie on the re-emergence of Schwarzenegger. It would probably be more of a matter of his showing up briefly and just participating at the very end, at the climax of the movie.”
While I understand the studio’s decision, I do think its a bit of a disappointment. Having Arnold show up, especially as a third act surprise, would have been a great crowd-pleasing moment. I understand a lot of people’s frustration with these type of cameos, but for The Predator, which is a bit of a sequel/reboot into one, I don’t think playing up to the fans is a bad decision.
Even with the studio turning it down, it appears Arnold himself wasn’t particular interested in the role either, with Black reiterating:
“Understandably – and believe me, I completely get it – he said, ‘Look, that’s kind of a small part, and I don’t really think I want to do that. I’m off to do Terminator with Jim Cameron, basically. Or for Jim Cameron. So I totally got it, you know? If I was Schwarzenegger, I’d want to be one of the stars of a film, or nothing.”
Arnold’s hesitation is certainly understandable, but considering it was such an iconic role for him, its sad to see him have little interest. Perhaps if a sequel was to be made, Arnold could return in a badass fashion.
The Predator is set to hit theaters September 14th, 2018.
Are you disappointed Arnold didn’t make a return? Be sure to tell us all of your thoughts in the comments!