It takes a special kind of man to helm an Expendables film. The first one was directed by Sly Stallone himself, while the second, far more action-packed ode to the gut instinct violence of yesteryear was overseen by Simon “Con Air” West.
So who’s taking the reins for the third film then? The trilogy-capper to a couple of years of explosives, pistols, and Jet Lee kicking as much ass as possible within an allotted two minute time frame? Why none other than…
Patrick Hughes. Wait, who?
Hughes hit it big last year with his Australian film Red Hill, which chalked up some pretty good reviews overall. It also puts to rest the rumours that Mel Gibson would direct the third film, but I’m personally hoping that he at least makes an appearance alongside a weary Danny Glover as two mercenaries who are clearly too old for this kind of explosive crap. Heading to Twitter, Stallone explained why Hughes was chosen for the job;
Meeting the New Director Tomorrow!!! Couldf be Fantastic…. Stay tuned.
— Sylvester Stallone (@TheSlyStallone) April 19, 2013
It will be An Unknown to most of you… Like I was centuries ago , or so it seems, But stillThe Battle! …JustIn the Blood…. — Sylvester Stallone (@TheSlyStallone) April 19, 2013
I would Direct it myself , butI want my HANDS free to fight!!! — Sylvester Stallone (@TheSlyStallone) April 19, 2013
Found an EXCITING director… Things sometimes happen for a Reason….Okay? — Sylvester Stallone (@TheSlyStallone) April 20, 2013
Love John Woo but he is working in China-EX3 Needs freshness, class, and much badass…. Found it…Blood Sweat and Fears ,coming soon.. — Sylvester Stallone (@TheSlyStallone) April 20, 2013
You will never guess….NEW BLOOD, right? — Sylvester Stallone (@TheSlyStallone) April 20, 2013
My best PURE ACTION FILM-The last RAMBO- I want this one too top it and I believe it will with NEW BLOOD… — Sylvester Stallone (@TheSlyStallone) April 20, 2013
The director is an Aussie………
— Sylvester Stallone (@TheSlyStallone) April 23, 2013
The director is an Aussie………
— Sylvester Stallone (@TheSlyStallone) April 23, 2013
Ok .. Last HINTHe is NEW.. the last film he didwas more RED than BLUE… — Sylvester Stallone (@TheSlyStallone) April 23, 2013
RentRED HILL.Great Movie!!500,000 budget 20 day shoot, Amazing – ROCKY was 850,000 and 25 days , Good OMEN!!! — Sylvester Stallone (@TheSlyStallone) April 23, 2013
Hey , Everyone should go look at Patrick Hughes short film on U-TubeIt is called SIGNS . It will move you in a GOOD WAY. You will LOVE it!
— Sylvester Stallone (@TheSlyStallone) April 23, 2013
It’s an interesting choice, but one that we see plenty of in Hollywood. I’m curious to see what Hughes can do with an army of mercenaries under his belt, but considering that Stallone will be present as well, things should be interesting. As for that short film that Stallone mentioned? Watch it right here and see for yourself.
Last Updated: April 24, 2013