Ryan Reynolds is returning to remakes with a fresh take on the Clint Eastwood classic action-comedy, Thunderbolt & Lightfoot. Stepping into the roles of star, producer, and co-writer alongside Fargo writers Enzo Mileti and Scott Wilson, Reynolds is reviving the project with direction by Deadpool and Wolverine editor Shane Reid. This announcement marks Reynolds’s renewed dive into the Clint Eastwood classic remake genre after years of limited involvement in remakes since the early 2000s.
Background of the Original Thunderbolt & Lightfoot
The 1974 original film, directed by Michael Cimino, featured Clint Eastwood as John “Thunderbolt” Doherty, a bank robber disguised as a preacher who is drawn back into crime. Jeff Bridges played Lightfoot, a younger, rash car thief who joins Thunderbolt on a heist seeking hidden loot. Eastwood initially planned to direct the film himself but passed the role to Cimino after their meeting. This decision launched Cimino’s career, with the director later crediting Eastwood for that opportunity and for preparing him to handle the challenges of fast-paced film production.
The Director’s Career and Eastwood’s Influence
Cimino’s career, bolstered by Eastwood’s support, faced notable hurdles, especially with the production issues surrounding the 1980 commercial failure Heaven’s Gate. Eastwood’s mentorship was key to Cimino learning to navigate the pressures of filmmaking. The original Thunderbolt & Lightfoot remains a significant film in both their histories, setting a high bar for Reynolds’s upcoming Clint Eastwood classic remake.
Speculations on Casting and Reynolds’s Expanding Roles
Fans and insiders are speculating about Reynolds’s co-star in the remake, with Hugh Jackman rumored as a potential counterpart. This remake reflects Reynolds’s willingness to explore bold projects after establishing his own production company, Maximum Effort. Additionally, he is set to portray a rare villain role in Eloise, a film adaptation of the beloved children’s book series directed by Amy Sherman-Palladino, known for Gilmore Girls.
Reynolds’s Success Beyond Acting
Alongside his entertainment ventures, Reynolds has achieved remarkable financial success through entrepreneurship. His cybersecurity investment 1Password, backed by actors Matthew McConaughey and Scarlett Johansson, recently surpassed $400 million in annual recurring revenue. Coupled with previous stakes in Mint Mobile and Aviation American Gin, Reynolds’s business acumen complements his creative pursuits, positioning him uniquely within the industry.
Looking Ahead for the New Thunderbolt & Lightfoot
Ryan Reynolds’s involvement as star, producer, and co-writer signals a committed vision for this Clint Eastwood classic remake. With seasoned collaborators like Mileti, Wilson, and Reid, the new film aims to respect the original’s legacy while introducing fresh elements. The project’s progress will be closely watched, potentially reinvigorating interest in both the actors involved and the source material, as Reynolds balances creative risks with his expanding production ambitions.
