After 17 years, the action-packed thrill ride Wanted is making its return to Netflix, providing fans a chance to revisit this explosive film that arguably deserved a sequel. Directed by Timur Bekmambetov, the film will be available for streaming again starting July 16, stirring nostalgia and a desire for what could have been.
Based on the graphic novel by Mark Millar, known for hit adaptations like Kingsman and Kick-Ass, Wanted stars James McAvoy as Wesley Gibson, an ordinary man thrust into a world of assassins. When he learns that his estranged father was a master killer, he is recruited by the enigmatic Fox, played by Angelina Jolie. What follows is a plot steeped in high-stakes action, treachery, and the urgency of survival, paving the way for a sequel that never materialized.
What This Means For Wanted On Netflix
Wanted Has A Chance To Prove Why It Was So Successful
The return of Wanted on Netflix allows audiences to not only reminisce about the film’s impact but also to assess its popularity anew. Over the years, it has consistently secured a spot among the most-watched titles upon its Netflix returns, leaving many fans puzzled about the absence of a sequel.
According to screenwriter Derek Haas, there has always been an eagerness to continue Wesley Gibson’s story. He expressed optimism about a sequel, revealing he had even written one. With Wanted grossing $341 million at the worldwide box office, it seemed almost inevitable that a follow-up would be made. However, after initial enthusiasm faded, the project fell into what many call ‘development hell’ due to rewrites and indecision from Universal.
Why You Should Watch Wanted On Netflix
Wanted is a cinematic gem filled with exhilarating action sequences and innovative choreography, akin to what John Wick offered after its release. The film stands out not just for its narrative but also for the inventive use of visual effects, most notably the iconic ‘curving bullets.’
For fans of Mark Millar’s adaptations, Wanted serves as a prime example of a reluctant hero navigating outlandish scenarios. With a 71% score on Rotten Tomatoes and a solid 69% audience rating, it has amassed a dedicated fanbase. Should it achieve strong viewership once again, it may stir interest in reviving Wesley Gibson’s adventure, bringing McAvoy back into the fray. The allure of revisiting this narrative certainly remains potent.