The tentatively called “The Bourne Legacy,” also known as “Bourne 4,” is happening, though it may not be in a way that’s pleasing to fans: director Tony Gilroy has just confirmed that the film will be without Matt Damon and without the character Jason Bourne.The announcement, though not that shocking (
at least in part), has gotten fans all up in arms because of the obvious question of how can one have a Jason Bourne movie without Jason Bourne.
In previous interviews, Damon made it crystal clear that he had no intention of returning to the franchise for a fourth installment, saying he was
too “old” for the role.
At the same time, he said he believed the movie studio would go for either
a reboot or a prequel, so that his Bourne character would be played by another, perhaps younger, actor.
As it turns out, not only is Matt Damon not returning to the franchise but neither is Jason Bourne – you know, the character who gave the franchise its name and made it what it is.
According to recently-signed director Tony Gilroy, fans won’t be disappointed though, because, creatively speaking, this is the best thing that could have happened to the franchise,
E! Online informs.
“It’s a completely original screenplay. This is not a reboot or a recast or a prequel. No one’s replacing Matt Damon,” Gilroy says when asked whether “Bourne” will go down the new “Spider-Man” path.
“There will be a whole new hero, a whole new chapter… this is a stand-alone project,” the director adds.
Granted, the director imagines a Bourne film without Bourne is an idea not many fans can come to terms with from the get-go.
“The easiest way to think of it is an expansion or a reveal. Jason Bourne will not be in this film, but he’s very much alive,” he offers.
“We’re going to show you the bigger picture, the bigger canvas. When you see where we’re going and see what we’re doing it’ll be pretty obvious… but Jason Bourne’s activities in the first three films is the immediate trigger,” the director adds.
Hopefully, this Bourne-less and Matt Damon-less film will lay the foundation for yet another successful franchise, Gilroy hopes.
“I’m building a legend and an environment and a wider conspiracy… the world we’re making enhances and invites Jason Bourne’s return,” the director explains.
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