Charlize Theron initially had no intention of creating a sequel to the 2020 film “The Old Guard.” However, the movie’s immense popularity on Netflix, where it emerged as one of the platform’s most-watched films, prompted a reevaluation of that stance.
The first film featured a hint of a broader narrative at its conclusion, showcasing the character Quỳnh, played by Veronica Ngô, who was previously trapped in a tragic cycle of drowning. The return of Quỳnh in the sequel serves to illustrate that the story of immortal warriors continues beyond the confines of a single film. In “The Old Guard 2,” directed by Victoria Mahoney, Andy, Theron’s character, faces new challenges as she grapples with her mortality while seeking a renewed sense of purpose alongside her team. The plot thickens with the introduction of Uma Thurman as Discord, which raises the stakes for Andy and her allies and leads to another cliffhanger ending.
Theron, in conversation with The Hollywood Reporter, expressed her cautious optimism regarding a potential third installment. “One thing I’ve learned in this business is that there are no guarantees,” she shared, appreciating Netflix’s support but remaining realistic about the future direction of the franchise.
In addition to her return as Andy, Theron is set to join Christopher Nolan’s upcoming project “The Odyssey,” where she will portray the sorceress Circe. Reflecting on her previous experiences, Theron acknowledged the physical demands of action films, notably mentioning she suffered a black eye but was grateful not to have sustained serious injuries during filming.
She also discussed her appreciation for the stunt community finally receiving Oscar recognition, noting how crucial their roles are in bringing action films to life. Furthermore, Theron reflected on the emotional complexity of the recasting of her iconic role as Furiosa in the “Mad Max: Fury Road” prequel, “Furiosa.” Despite her initial disappointment, she embraced the film’s outcome and praised Anya Taylor-Joy’s performance.
On the subject of “The Old Guard 2,” Theron expressed pride in the film while acknowledging the long post-production process brought on by pandemic-related shutdowns. She emphasized the importance of teamwork and safety during the shoot, stating, “I’m just really happy that nobody got hurt.”
“The Old Guard 2” is set to premiere on Netflix on July 2, promising action, drama, and the continuation of a compelling narrative that keeps viewers eager for what lies ahead. With Theron’s remarkable commitment and the growing popularity of the franchise, fans may find themselves hopeful for more stories of immortal warriors in the future.