Seth Gordon, the director of Netflix’s spy movie Back in Action, has revealed how the film’s cliffhanger ending paves the way for a potential sequel. The movie reunites stars Jamie Foxx and Cameron Diaz in an action-packed adventure, which premiered globally on Netflix on January 17. The plot centers on two ex-CIA agents whose family faces imminent danger. Alongside Foxx and Diaz, the film features Glenn Close as Diaz’s estranged mother and a former MI-6 agent. In the movie’s final scenes, Diaz’s character is given a new mission: to locate and recruit her enigmatic father.
Director Seth Gordon Discusses Plans for a Sequel
In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Gordon shared how the film’s conclusion hints at a sequel and discussed ideas for casting Diaz’s father. While there is already a concept for the next chapter and who could play her father, Netflix has not yet confirmed plans for a sequel. Gordon expressed:
“There’s certainly an idea about who the dad could be and what the whole story could be about. [Netflix] won’t even acknowledge the idea of a sequel yet! So if you put in a good word, maybe there’s a chance.”
Gordon also hinted at exploring the lives of the couple’s teenage children in the sequel. He envisions how their kids’ experiences could intersect with their parents’ espionage-filled past. Reflecting on this, Gordon said the sequel would likely take place later in the kids’ lives:
“What I’m leaning towards is moments where family life and teenage challenges conflict with someone’s background as a spy. There are several opportunities or milestones to explore from their lives.”
He also noted how much Rylan Jackson, who plays their son Leo, has grown since the filming of the first movie:
“Leo, based on my son, has grown significantly. His voice has dropped, and he’s now about 9 or 10 inches taller. So, we wouldn’t pick up the next day after the first movie. The sequel would honor the timeline and showcase a significant event during their later teenage years.”
Casting Ideas for Diaz’s Father
As for who could play Diaz’s father, Gordon suggested that the character would also have ties to espionage and likely be British. He teased:
“You have to believe she met him through work. It wouldn’t hurt if he were also British. You’d need someone believable with a gun. There are certain people you could consider for that part. We’ve definitely got some creative thoughts.”
What the Ending of Back in Action Hints About a Sequel
The conclusion of Back in Action leaves the door wide open for a sequel. While Foxx and Diaz’s family returns to suburban life, their past as spies continues to loom. Andrew Scott’s MI-6 agent tasks Diaz’s character, Emily, with finding her father. Meanwhile, the film teases the survival of the main villain, whose body was not recovered. These threads set the stage for a compelling continuation.
A British Spy as Emily’s Father?
The idea of Emily’s father being a former British secret agent suggests some iconic casting choices. Among the possibilities are former James Bond actors Timothy Dalton and Pierce Brosnan. Both would bring charisma and a sense of history to the role.
Our Take on Casting a Former Bond
While there are other British spies in pop culture, James Bond remains the most iconic. Casting a former Bond actor like Dalton or Brosnan could lend a layer of intrigue and prestige to the sequel. Alternatively, Gordon could explore casting from the rich history of Bond villains, with actors like Sean Bean (GoldenEye) being excellent options.
Final Thoughts
Seth Gordon’s vision for Back in Action 2 offers exciting potential. From family drama to espionage thrills, the sequel promises to expand the universe established in the first movie. With Diaz’s father’s mysterious past and a possible Bond connection, fans have plenty to anticipate if Netflix greenlights the project.
Source: Entertainment Weekly
