Choosing the Perfect Prequels: Insights and Ideas

Sybol: A question often asked in film circles is, 'If you could make 4 movies as prequels, which ones would you do?' Here, we explore some fascinating ideas, as well as the inspiration behind each choice. Let's dive in.

Quint on the U.S.S. Indianapolis

First on the list is a movie about Quint, the character from the hit film Independence Day. Quint, played by Bill Pullman, would be the protagonist of this prequel. The story would take place on the U.S.S. Indianapolis, years before the events of the original film. It would delve into the missions and experiences of the crew, specifically focusing on Quint as a critical member. This would give us a glimpse into how he came to be the character we know from Independence Day, providing a powerful backstory and developing his character further.

Young James Bond

Secondly, there is a unique and intriguing idea for a prequel involving the character of James Bond, but not as we know him. This prequel would be a series of books, each focusing on a different book from the Young James Bond series. Originally written for a younger audience, the tone of these stories could be adapted for a film adaptation, making it accessible to a broader audience. By focusing on the formative years of the legendary intelligence agent, we could explore the early milestones in his career, revealing how his skills and character were shaped.

A Closer Look at Drive

Next, we move to a mysterious character named 'Drive,' played by Ryan Gosling in the film of the same name. While we know a lot about his skills as a professional driver, we know little about his personal background. A prequel exploring his past, perhaps his reasons for becoming a skilled chauffeur, would provide a rich and engaging backstory. This would help us understand his motivation and emotional depth, giving us a more human protagonist in a story that is otherwise driven by action and setting.

Ben's Prequel to Night of the Living Dead

For a more horror-themed prequel, we turn to the 1968 classic Night of the Living Dead. This prequel would be set around the outbreak of the zombie apocalypse and would feature Ben, the main character from the original film. It would provide a detailed account of how the zombies first appeared and spread, setting the stage for the events of 1968. This would offer a compelling narrative that delves into the origins of the outbreak, giving us the history that shaped the world of the original film.

An Honorable Mention: John Rambo

In the realm of action films, Sylvester Stallone's idea for a prequel to First Blood is quite intriguing. The story would focus on the younger John Rambo, exploring his childhood and the events that led him to become the soldier he is. This would provide a rich backstory and context for the character, helping us understand why he is who he is. It would be a compelling narrative that delves into the motivations and struggles of a young man destined for a lifetime of war and conflict.

Prequels in Film

While prequels have been a common element in the film industry, particularly with franchises like Star Wars and The Lion King, the concept remains a topic of much debate and discussion. Some argue that prequels can serve as valuable extensions to the original story, providing much-needed context and expanding the narrative. Others believe that prequels can sometimes overshadow the original tale, leaving it in the shadow of its sequel's prehistory. In essence, whether a prequel is a success or a failure often comes down to how well it fits with the original story and whether it adds value to the overall narrative.

Insights from Adapting Classic Stories

The examples above highlight the importance of prequels in adapting classic stories. Whether it's exploring the roots of a beloved character, providing context for a significant event in a story, or delving into the origins of a famous world, prequels can offer rich and engaging narratives. These types of films can provide a deeper understanding of characters, setting, and events, making the overall narrative more compelling and complete.

Conclusion

In conclusion, prequels can be an exciting and valuable tool in the film industry. They offer the opportunity to explore the past and present a new perspective on familiar stories. By carefully crafting these prequels, filmmakers can add value and depth to their narratives, making them more engaging for audiences. Whether it's a multifaceted journey of a character, a detailed exploration of an iconic world, or a detailed look into the origins of a well-known tale, prequels can be a gateway to a world of endless possibilities.