Keanu Reeves’ John Wick 4 co-star Donnie Yen once had the opportunity to appear in Sylvester Stallone’s $789M The Expendables franchise, when it was set to film in China. However, as the idea for The Expendables 2 fell through, Yen dropped out of the franchise. Nonetheless, the actor seems to have a better idea for a spin-off than the actual $789M franchise.
Donnie Yen, who once yielded disappointing results in Hollywood, during his initial years, came up with a cool take on Sylvester Stallone’s The Expendables franchise. Pulling in an impressive number of icons to star in his spin-off movie, Yen’s incredible pitch for The Expendables’ version sounded like it could put Stallone’s franchise out of commission.
Donnie Yen Was Once Selected For The Expendables 2
The legend of martial arts cinema, Donnie Yen who rose to fame with Once Upon a Time in China II, Hero, and the Ip Man movies, apparently experienced some hardcore struggles during his initial years in Hollywood. However, through dedication and commitment, the actor ventured into renowned projects alongside Keanu Reeves in John Wick 4.
While Yen’s years in Hollywood yielded some disappointing results, after his talent was tragically wasted in Blade 2, his John Wick 4 opportunity came as a career savior. Thus, his worthy role as Caine in Keanu Reeves’ movie, turned into one of his best English-language projects to date. Apart from his role in John Wick, Yen was also offered a brief opportunity in Sylvester Stallone’s The Expendables franchise.
When Stallone’s The Expendables 2 was being prepared to be shot in China, Donnie Yen was eyed for an impressive role in the movie sequel. The renowned martial arts star was almost set to appear alongside legendary actors like Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jet Li, and Harrison Ford until he dropped out at the last moment. Having a lack of passion and resentment for the role, Yen decided to step out.
Donnie Yen’s Better-Than-Original Idea For The Expendables
Years later, after turning down the opportunity to appear in Sylvester Stallone‘s $789M The Expendables franchise, Donnie Yen came up with a super cool idea for a spin-off of the film series. His incredible pitch for a Chinese version of the concept even seemed to put Stallone’s franchise out of commission.
Although Sylvester Stallone’s film series missed out on several A-listers of Hollywood, Donnie Yen’s version seemed to have a better cast than the original movies. The martial arts star even discussed his idea with Jackie Chan about making a spin-off version of The Expendables, and Chan agreed to reprise his role if only Yen convinced Jet Li to join.
Further, Donnie Yen clarified that he had a casual conversation with Jackie Chan and had no serious plans to develop such a project. However, as The Expendables franchise failed to live up to its potential, fans believe it’s the right time for Yen to barge into the theatres with his Chinese version of the franchise. Fans believe Yen’s spin-off featuring a cast of major Chinese action icons has the potential to overpower the OG franchise.
Watch The Expendables movies on Hulu.
Source: Screenrant
