For years now, there have been rumblings about “Lethal Weapon 5.” With “Beverly Hills Cop” getting a new sequel, and other franchises from the ‘80s and ‘90s coming back for “one last” romp, it was only a matter of time that one of the most famous buddy-cop franchises would be revived, even if it’s been 22 years since the fourth feature. But according to filmmaker Richard Donner, not only is “Lethal Weapon 5” happening, but it’s also the end of the franchise. Probably.
Speaking to the Telegraph, Donner was asked if he would return to the director’s chair for the fifth adventure for cops Martin Riggs and Roger Murtaugh. And Donner did confirm that he’s returning, but only because he wants to put the franchise to bed.
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“This is the final one,” he said. “It’s both my privilege and duty to put it to bed. It’s exciting, actually.”
Of course, franchises are like gold in Hollywood. I’m not saying that Donner doesn’t believe “Lethal Weapon 5” will be the intended end of the franchise. However, if that film does huge numbers for the studio, you better believe we’ll see Riggs and Murtaugh (or maybe their kids? We all know Hollywood studios love legacy characters) return for more hijinks. But hey, in Donner’s eyes, the fifth film is the end.
As for the future, past “Lethal Weapon 5,” it appears that, as far as directing is concerned, the 90-year-old Donner is done. Yes, he’s going to end his decades-long career behind the camera with one last adventure with Riggs and Murtaugh.
“Hahaha! It’s the last one, I’ll promise you that,” said Donner about his directing career.
In addition to his time as “Lethal Weapon” helmer, Donner has his name attached to an incredible number of hit features such as “Superman,” “The Goonies,” “Scrooged,” and “The Omen.” His most recent directorial effort is the 2006 feature, “16 Blocks.”
A release date for “Lethal Weapon 5” has not been announced. Hell, the film itself has yet to be formally announced. But if Donner’s honestly trying to get it made, we can probably expect production to begin within the next year or so. I’m sure he doesn’t want to be the first 100-year-old director to helm a blockbuster film.