It seems back when we heard Universal Soldier 3 was being considered and that VanDamme would be reprising his role, we were told that the studio saw “no value” in bringing Dolph Lundgren’s character back too.
Well Lundgren himself had something to say about that.
“Absolutely untrue,” Lundgren insisted, clearing the air with a surprise call to MTV News HQ. “I’ve met with the producers many times, and I AM the one resisting. I want it to be a good picture, and I’m working with the producers on the materials and trying to work it out. The truth is it’s still a script and I think it needs some work.”
One of the main sticking points, Lundgren said, was the size of the roles offered to both of the main actors from the original 1992 film which, according to JCVD, amounted to about “10 days of work.” Basically glorified cameos, Lundgren said.
“Neither me nor Jean-Claude were carrying the picture and I didn’t agree with that,” Lundgren told us. “I think we have to be in the film more to give the audience what they want.
Well said Drago!!
I like that even in days when Lundgren isn’t exactly lining up the big gigs he still has his integrity. He keeps busy, but he doesn’t want to be in this if its just a cameo that diminishes his character. If he is going to return, he wants it to be worthwhile – FOR THE FANS!
I can respect that. I worry that VanDamme is taking the gig because its a paycheque, but at least he won’t have to share the glorified cameo with JCVD. To have the two of them together in this movie and then have it be such a small part? Why tease us.
If you are going to do a third Universal Soldier, make it worth my time to pick it up! Gimmee a Dolph and Jean-Claude film worth of the franchise or leave them out altogether!
