Gerard Butler has been a constant fixture in Hollywood for more than two decades, with performances in action films such as “300” and, of course, his ‘Has Fallen’ franchise. And those wondering if the actor has any plans on mixing things up and focusing on more indie fare or heartfelt romantic dramas are out of luck, as the actor recently confirmed to EW that his future is chock full of explosions and spectacle.
Speaking to the outlet about his upcoming disaster film (this is not some sort of snide prediction about the film’s quality, but instead an admission that the movie is indeed about a huge cataclysmic event), “Greenland,” Butler confirmed that he has two sequels in the pipeline, another installment of his ‘Has Fallen’ series focused on world-saving badass character Mike Banning and a surprising new continuation of his crime thriller, “Den of Thieves.”
As for why Butler is already thinking about a new film in the ‘Has Fallen’ franchise so soon after “Angel Has Fallen” was released (back in 2019), the actor confirmed that the real-life world is in need of saving and Mike Banning is just the guy to do it.
“I think with everything going on, we need him,” Butler said, laughing. “He needs to come back.”
He added, “Yeah, I think you will be seeing another. We’re toying away with another really fantastic idea that we’re working on at the moment that obviously we can’t say too much about.”
But the untitled ‘Has Fallen’ sequel isn’t the only sequel the actor has up his sleeve. Apparently, he’s also deep into development on a new film continuing the story of his 2018 crime thriller, “Den of Thieves.” And this time, the now-franchise is heading to Europe.
“We’re working on that script at the moment, and I’m getting pages daily from [director Christian Gudegast],” Butler said. “It’s a fun ride, spreading across North America into Europe and the diamond district of Marseilles. It’s very cool and has a more European vibe this time. All the fun characters, Big Nick, Donnie, and Lobbin’ Bob, will be back. And I’m really excited about it.”
READ MORE: ‘Den Of Thieves’ Is A Bloated Heist Pic That Steals Your Precious Time [Review]
While we may joke about many of the films Butler stars in, as they all tend to be centered around the actor playing some macho tough guy that is going to save the world, “Den of Thieves” is a change of pace. Sure, he’s a macho tough guy, but this time, he’s more of a villain, as a corrupt cop attempting a heist. It’s actually a solid action film that many people overlooked when it was released (though a review we posted was not as kind).
Obviously, it’s far too soon to figure out when we might see sequels to “Angel Has Fallen” and “Den of Thieves.” But those folks that enjoy seeing Butler on the big screen have plenty to look forward to with “Greenland” hitting theaters on August 14.