Bob Odenkirk’s transformation into an action hero stunned audiences when Nobody became a surprise hit, combining intense action with a sharp comedic edge. The film, released from the mind behind the celebrated John Wick franchise, reintroduced audiences to a style of action storytelling that blends emotional depth with thrilling sequences. Derek Kolstad, the screenwriter responsible for both John Wick and Nobody, crafted the scripts that redefined Bob Odenkirk’s action hero role with precision, bringing a fresh yet classic approach to the genre.
Kolstad’s journey began with modest action thrillers like One in the Chamber and The Package, which quietly garnered positive reviews despite limited attention. His breakthrough came with the screenplay for John Wick, initially intended as a direct-to-video release but evolving into a genre-defining sensation. Following that success, Kolstad wrote the sequels John Wick: Chapter 2 and John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum, alongside Nobody and its sequel, Nobody 2. His talent lies in marrying strong, emotionally driven narratives with explosive action, proving that intelligent writing is crucial to memorable action films.
Building Unique Worlds Within the Action Genre
John Wick was groundbreaking in its ability to combine stylized violence with an intricate mythology, introducing fans to the shadowy world of the High Table and the Continental hotel. Kolstad’s screenplay balanced this mythos with a heartfelt story centered on grief and revenge, offering Keanu Reeves a deeply resonant role. The sequels deepened the universe, emphasizing Wick’s underdog status and his relentless fight to reclaim control over his fate.
Hollywood quickly noticed the impact of Kolstad’s work, inspiring numerous films attempting to capture a similar tone, including Bullet Train, Atomic Blonde, and Extraction. Yet Nobody distinguished itself by poking fun at the traditional depiction of the American nuclear family. Hutch Mansell, portrayed by Odenkirk, is a man who hides his violent past behind a façade of suburban normalcy. By reigniting Hutch’s assassin instincts, Kolstad created a role where Odenkirk could fluidly transition between a devoted family man and a formidable action star. Unlike John Wick’s mostly serious tone, Nobody incorporated satirical humor and gags reminiscent of 1980s National Lampoon films, lending it a unique voice despite the similar action choreography.
How ‘Nobody 2’ Continues to Elevate Odenkirk’s Character
With Nobody 2, expectations were high for the follow-up to not only surpass the original but also to expand the story world meaningfully. While the element of surprise was less pronounced, the sequel retained its status as a compelling action movie by focusing on Hutch’s struggles to balance his lethal skills with his responsibilities as a father. Kolstad’s screenplay allowed for more vulnerability in Hutch’s character, tapping into Bob Odenkirk’s range by blending comedic timing with dramatic moments.
The sequel also gave richer roles to key supporting characters, such as Hutch’s father David, played by Christopher Lloyd, his half-brother Harry, portrayed by RZA, and his wife Becca, played by Connie Nielsen. These characters provided substantial emotional stakes and humorous interactions, strengthening the film’s overall depth. Kolstad’s ability to create distinctive characters in each project has prevented repetitiveness, allowing Nobody 2 to stand apart from typical action sequels.
Derek Kolstad’s Broader Impact and Future Projects
Beyond Nobody and John Wick, Kolstad has contributed his writing skills to other successful franchises. His work on Disney+’s The Falcon and the Winter Soldier helped refine the dynamic between Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) and Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan), adding layers to the characters’ friendship and conflict. This versatility showcases Kolstad’s talent for injecting personality into genres often dominated by straightforward action.
Looking ahead, Kolstad has several promising projects lined up, including the animated anthology Splinter Cell: Deathwatch and the crime thriller Normal, directed by Ben Wheatley. Fans can also anticipate new chapters in both the John Wick and Nobody franchises, which will undoubtedly build upon the solid foundations he established. His scripts continue to demonstrate that sharp storytelling and complex characters are essential to contemporary action cinema’s success.
Bob Odenkirk’s Journey to Action Stardom
Bob Odenkirk’s role as Hutch Mansell marks a significant shift in his career trajectory, moving from the comedic and dramatic tones of Better Call Saul to an action hero celebrated for his gritty intensity and nuanced performance. Kolstad’s writing has been instrumental in allowing Odenkirk to shine, balancing moments of humor, vulnerability, and brutal action in a way that feels fresh and captivating.
As Hutch, Odenkirk embodies a multi-dimensional hero who reflects the contradictions of modern masculinity—a man grappling with his violent past while maintaining his role as a loving father and husband. This complexity elevates the films beyond mere spectacle and invites audiences to invest emotionally in the character’s journey, securing Bob Odenkirk’s place among contemporary action stars.
