L.A. Confidential star Guy Pearce recently shared insights about the potential for a sequel to the acclaimed film, shedding light on a project that almost came to fruition. This 1997 crime drama, adapted from James Ellroy’s novel, not only introduced Australian actors Russell Crowe and Pearce to global audiences but also achieved remarkable critical acclaim, earning nine Academy Award nominations, including wins for Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Supporting Actress for Kim Basinger.
During an interview with Business Insider, Pearce reflected on the conversation he had with director Curtis Hanson about a decade after the film’s initial release. He revealed that Hanson had expressed interest in collaborating with Ellroy for a sequel, prompting Pearce’s enthusiasm to reunite with Crowe and the original cast and crew. However, tragedy struck when Hanson fell ill and passed away in 2016. Here’s what Pearce had to say:
At a certain point, Curtis called me and said, “Just so you know, I’m talking to [“L.A. Confidential”author James] Ellroy about specifically writing a sequel.”It would have been ten years later. And he wanted me to be involved. I told him I’m on board, no question. And Russell [Crowe] would return as well. Curtis’ whole thing was it needed to be the same team, Warner Bros., me, Ellroy, Russell. It was a no-brainer for me. That got developed to a certain degree and then Curtis got sick and sadly passed in 2016.
Implications of Pearce’s Remarks for L.A. Confidential 2
Future Prospects Remain Uncertain
Pearce’s statements are not the first indication that an L.A. Confidential sequel was on the table. After the film’s success, plans emerged that included the late Chadwick Boseman, who was set to star alongside Pearce and Crowe as a young cop named James Muncie. This sequel would have taken place in 1974, 21 years after the events of the original film.
Unfortunately, Warner Bros. opted not to proceed, and subsequent attempts to pitch the sequel to other studios were met with a lack of interest. Notably, screenwriter Brian Helgeland recounted that during a pitch meeting with Netflix, one of the executives reportedly fell asleep, discouraging them from continuing their efforts. Additionally, the deaths of both Boseman and Hanson have further stifled any hopes for reviving the proposed sequel.
With talents like Pearce, Crowe, and Boseman involved, many believe that the decision by Warner Bros. and Netflix to shelve L.A. Confidential 2 was a significant oversight, particularly given the potential for storytelling and character development in a sequel.
Our Perspective on L.A. Confidential’s Cinematic Possibilities
Exploring Other Adaptations of Ellroy’s Work
While the chances of a direct sequel seem bleak, there remains ample opportunity for Ellroy’s original novels to make their way to the big screen. An earlier adaptation, Brian De Palma’s 2006 film The Black Dahlia, showcases the potential of Ellroy’s work. Furthermore, plans to adapt his 1992 novel White Jazz have circulated for decades, with various stars attached at different times, including Nick Nolte, John Cusack, George Clooney, and Chris Pine.
Though audiences may never witness Pearce and Crowe reunite for L.A. Confidential 2, Ellroy’s oeuvre still holds a trove of engaging noir crime narratives ripe for cinematic adaptation. With the right approach, studios might once again explore the richly textured world of 1940s and 1950s Los Angeles, introducing viewers to a fresh narrative featuring Detective Ed Exley and Bud White.
Source: Business Insider
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