Over three decades later,Bruce Campbellwants to return to the world ofDarkman. Directed and co-written by Sam Raimi,Darkmanwas released in theaters in 1990. The film stars Liam Neeson in the lead role as a scientist who transforms into the titular vigilante after surviving a brutal attack and undergoing an experimental treatment for his injuries. The movie spawned a pair of direct-to-video sequels in 1995 and 1996, though neither seems to be as held in as high regard by fans as the original film.Fans ofDarkmanmay also remember that Campbell briefly appears in the original movie as an unmasked Darkman in the final moments. However, he did not reprise the role for the previous sequels. ADarkmanlegacy sequel could possibly remedy this situation by only acknowledging the originalDarkmanand disregarding those other movies. It’s a strategy we’ve seen find success with other franchises, such as with Blumhouse’sHalloweentrilogy.On Twitter, Campbell retweeted a news story about Raimi meeting with Universal to discuss plans for a legacy sequel forDarkman. Campbell teased his return in the film if it ends up materializing. Using the hashtag #IamDarkman, Campbell said in response to the news, “Cool. Checking availability now.”
Related:Why Sam Raimi’s Next Film Should be a Horror Movie
Would Liam Neeson Also Return if Darkman Gets a Legacy Sequel?
It was reported in May thatSam Raimi was looking to get a newDarkmanfilm off the ground. This followed Liam Neeson also stating that he was open to returning to the franchise as well for a newDarkmanmovie. Raimi had personally told TheWrap that discussions on a new installment were happening but that he had gotten so swamped up with work onDoctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madnessthat the movie fell by the wayside. With that film done and released, perhaps Raimi can put some more focus back into the newDarkman.
“Universal is talking about aDarkmansequel," he said. “There’s a producer attached. I haven’t heard the story yet or gone into it, I’ve been so busy with (Doctor Strange). But I think it’s cool.”
DirectorJosh Ruben has also been campaigning for the chance to direct a newDarkmanmovie. As a fan of the original, his hope was also to get Neeson back on board alongside Frances McDormand. He probably won’t get the chance if Raimi intends to direct the legacy sequel himself, but in any case, there seems to be a lot of interest from many in seeing this movie happen.
