The world of cinema is full of intriguing behind-the-scenes stories, and the tale of Chuck Norris' Missing in Action franchise is a fascinating one. This article delves into the unique circumstances surrounding the release of the sequel, Missing in Action 2: The Beginning, before the original film, Missing in Action. It's a tale of studio ambition, creative decisions, and the impact of those choices on the success of a franchise.
A Unique Release Order
In the early 1980s, Cannon Pictures greenlit two Chuck Norris films, both featuring the character of Colonel James Braddock. The first film was to depict Norris' time as a POW in Vietnam, culminating in his escape, while the sequel would focus on his return to the jungle to rescue more missing soldiers. This release order was unusual, to say the least.
The director of the first film, Lance Hool, had a different vision for the story, and his film was initially set to be the sequel. However, Cannon's distribution deal with Warner Bros. played a significant role in the reversal of this plan. The studio wanted to distribute their own films, and so they decided to release the sequel, directed by Joseph Zito, as the first film.
The Impact of the Decision
This decision had a profound impact on the success of the franchise. The sequel, Missing in Action 2: The Beginning, was released as a prequel, a rare move at the time. While it made about half as much money as the original, the first film, Missing in Action, became a blockbuster, grossing $22.2 million. This success paved the way for a long-standing contract with Cannon Pictures.
The writer, James Bruner, highlights the potential impact of Warner Bros. had they known about the sequel. He suggests that the studio's involvement could have changed the outcome, but as it stood, the original film's success was undeniable.
The Series' End
Unfortunately, the series' success was short-lived. The third film, Braddock: Missing in Action 3, was released amidst Cannon's financial struggles, and it only made $7 million, ending the series on a low note. This outcome serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between creative decisions and commercial success in the film industry.
Conclusion
The story of Missing in Action and its unusual release order is a fascinating one, showcasing the power of studio decisions and their impact on a franchise's trajectory. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most intriguing stories are those that unfold behind the scenes.
