Believe it or not, it’s been seven years since we last saw an ‘Expendables’ film. The popular action franchise initially started as a bit of a gimmick, combining some of the biggest action stars of the ‘80s and ‘90s in one film that shows them all kicking ass. The 2010 original film became a hit and spawned two more films that would arrive in 2012 and 2014, respectively. Now, after a long break, it appears the ‘Expendables’ franchise is getting dusted off thanks to Lionsgate and Millenium Media.
According to Lionsgate, the studio is teaming with Millenium Media for a new sequel in the ‘Expendables’ universe. And some of the original stars are returning to blow up more bad guys, including Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, Randy Couture, and Dolph Lundgren. However, the formula is getting mixed up just a bit, with a new influx of fresh faces to the film series including Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, Megan Fox, and Tony Jaa. Plot details are being kept under wraps for now.
“We are thrilled to partner with our friends at Millennium Media for the next installment of the ‘Expendables’ franchise,” said Jason Constantine, President of Acquisitions and Co-Productions for the Lionsgate Motion Picture Group. “It’s so much fun to bring these stars together for a no-holds-barred action film. The new film will raise the stakes and be the biggest, most badass adventure yet.”
“The Expendables are back, and we couldn’t be more excited to bring this star-studded, action-packed film to the big screen with Lionsgate, who have been with us since the inception of this franchise. To keep it fresh and fun, we’ve added exciting new stars to join the veterans; popcorn entertainment is guaranteed,” added Jeffrey Greenstein, Millennium Media President.
The new ‘Expendables’ film is set to be directed by Scott Waugh, who previously worked on films such as “Act of Valor” and “Need for Speed.” The script is written by Spenser Cohen with revisions by Max Adams and John Joseph Connolly. Production is expected to begin this fall, which would indicate a 2022 release.
For those curious about what “The Expendables” is all about, here are trailers for the previous films: