“The Equalizer” series, led by the charismatic Denzel Washington, has been a fan-favorite in the action genre, and while “The Equalizer 3” is said to be the conclusion of the film trilogy, director Antoine Fuqua has revealed that he’s not ruling out more adventures for the enigmatic Robert McCall. In fact, he’s considering the possibility of exploring an origin story using de-aging technology.
In a recent interview with NME, Fuqua shared his thoughts on the potential continuation of the franchise. “I definitely thought about it a lot,” Fuqua admitted. He’s intrigued by the advancements in technology, particularly de-aging techniques that have graced recent films such as Harrison Ford’s “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny” and Martin Scorsese’s “The Irishman,” which digitally rejuvenated actors like Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Al Pacino.
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Fuqua acknowledged that the concept of delving into McCall’s earlier years has been on his mind. He’s engaged in discussions with “Equalizer” screenwriter Richard Wenk about the idea. Exploring McCall’s origin story, understanding how he became the character fans know, could offer a fresh perspective on the series.
As for the possibility of de-aging Denzel Washington for the role, Fuqua revealed, “I haven’t talked to Denzel about that yet.” He’s keeping a close watch on the advancements in technology, mentioning upcoming films like Sony’s project with Tom Hanks. The evolution of de-aging technology is something he’s monitoring closely to determine if it could be a viable option for the franchise.
“The Equalizer 3” promises a gripping continuation of McCall’s story. Washington reprises his role as the former U.S. Marine and DIA officer who grapples with his past. The film explores deeper themes and challenges McCall’s morality as he navigates a world of violence and brutality.
Fuqua offered insights into the evolving arc of McCall’s journey across the trilogy. “The first film was about [McCall] finding a purpose,” Fuqua explained. “And it’s very external, right? He’s helping people. The second one is more about making peace with his past.” With the third installment, McCall’s inner conflict takes center stage as he grapples with his darker impulses and the installment of his actions.
“The Equalizer 3” is set to premiere in theaters on September 1, and fans of the series can anticipate an intense and thought-provoking conclusion to this chapter of McCall’s story. As for the potential origin story, the prospect of exploring McCall’s early days through cutting-edge technology has undoubtedly piqued the curiosity of both fans and industry insiders alike. As technology continues to push the boundaries of storytelling, the possibilities for inventive narratives seem boundless.