So we know that Tony Gilroy is writing/directing the new Bourne film titled The Bourne Legacy. When we found out, one question instantly came to mind, would Matt Damon return and reprise his role as Jason Bourne? Damon had always said that without Greengrass, he would not do another Bourne film. Well it looks like he kept his word.
According to /Film, Gilroy has now cleared up some details on the upcoming film. He has said that the film will not follow the book’s story and the film will not be a reboot. It will also not go against the story told in the previous three films. Gilroy was quoted as saying:
“It’s a completely original screenplay….This is not a reboot or a recast or a prequel. No one’s replacing Matt Damon. There will be a whole new hero, a whole new chapter…this is a stand-alone project. The easiest way to think of it is an expansion or a reveal…Jason Bourne will not be in this film, but he’s very much alive. What happened in the first three films is the trigger for what happens. I’m building a legend and an environment and a wider conspiracy…the world we’re making enhances and advances and invites Jason Bourne’s return [down the road].”
It seems as though Gilroy is continuing the series in such a way that would one day allow Damon to return. While it’s a smart move, what does this mean for The Bourne Legacy? No Matt Damon, no Paul Greengrass, no Jason Bourne, why even call it a Bourne film? I have no doubt that Gilroy knows what he is doing but without Damon/Bourne will the film be any good?
The main appeal of the Bourne films was Matt Damon as Jason Bourne. Without him, what’s going to set this apart from every other action film? We don’t even have Greengrass’ directing talent.
I’m a bit skeptical of the film and I’m not sure what to expect. Hopefully it turns out well but it’ll be a while until we have an idea of how it’s shaping up. The film is still a long ways off but we’ll keep you updated on any more news that comes out.