Dave Bautista recently turned down an enticing role in the Fast & Furious franchise, an opportunity that could have paved the way for a long-awaited crossover. Notably, his impressive filmography hints at a natural fit for the franchise’s fast-paced and thrilling environment. Although Bautista has embraced significant roles in major franchises like the Marvel Cinematic Universe and the sci-fi epic Dune, he is equally passionate about exploring less mainstream intellectual properties.
His standout performances in The Killer’s Game and Knock at the Cabin exemplify his willingness to take risks and tackle diverse roles. Moreover, his notable contributions to Glass Onion and Blade Runner 2049 demonstrate a remarkable versatility. Despite this, he found the Fast & Furious series less appealing, as revealed by Collider. Bautista’s primary interest during a meeting with Universal was to discuss a potential adaptation of Gears of War. With the upcoming Fast & Furious 11 rumored to be the concluding chapter of the saga, it’s unlikely that Bautista will reconsider, resulting in the loss of a potentially captivating on-screen dynamic.
Why Bautista’s Involvement Would Have Been Significant
Uniting Icons of Wrestling Hollywood
Had Bautista accepted the role in the Fast & Furious franchise, it would have marked a historic moment, as it would be the first time he shared the screen with fellow wrestling icons John Cena and Dwayne “The Rock”Johnson in a feature film. Although all three have established successful acting careers post-WWE, their paths have seldom crossed in cinema.
While Cena and Johnson have made appearances in the DC Extended Universe, their separate projects have never featured them together. Bautista has expressed interest in portraying Bane, a role that seems increasingly viable, especially given his prior collaborations with James Gunn. Nevertheless, as The Rock distances himself from superhero films, the collaboration among these three charismatic actors remains improbable. The Fast & Furious franchise offered a prime opportunity for a trio collaboration, especially after Cena and Johnson’s joint appearances in 2023’s Fast X.
Unfortunately, the chance for this cinematic reunion appears bleak, particularly since Cena’s character was seemingly eliminated in the previous film, making his return doubtful. Although it’s understandable for Bautista to pursue projects that ignite his passion, the missed opportunity for an ensemble featuring these three powerhouse performers is disappointing. Fans can only hope for future collaborations.
Wrestling Legends Turned Hollywood Stars
Rising Stars of the Silver Screen
The debate continues regarding the best wrestler turned actor, but Bautista, Cena, and Johnson consistently rank among the top contenders. The Rock, in particular, may face scrutiny, yet his status as a box office powerhouse is undeniable. His memorable performances in major films like Moana and The Rundown illustrate his successful transition from wrestling to acting.
While Johnson seemed destined for Hollywood, Cena’s journey from a heroic wrestling persona to the anti-heroic Peacemaker has taken audiences by surprise. His turn as a complex character showcases his range, proving he’s capable of both action and comedic performances.
Bautista arguably stands out as the most accomplished wrestler-turned-actor, showcasing his adaptability across diverse genres. He made a significant impact through his role as Drax the Destroyer in Guardians of the Galaxy, yet has skillfully avoided typecasting by engaging in roles across action, horror, and comedy. All three performers have solidified their status in the film industry, and given their shared history, a collaboration in the future would be a cinematic dream come true.
The Ideal Fit for the Fast & Furious Franchise
A Perfect Blend of Humor and Action
Even though Bautista’s potential role in the Fast & Furious franchise may now be a missed opportunity, there’s no doubt he would have brought a unique flair to the series. His talent for delivering humor aligns perfectly with the franchise’s style, and his previous collaborations with established cast members like Vin Diesel, along with his upcoming project alongside Jason Momoa in The Wrecking Crew, exhibit his ability to create chemistry within this universe. Moreover, his wrestling background and extensive action film experience position him well for the franchise’s trademark high-octane stunts and intense fight sequences.
|
Top Grossing Films Featuring Dave Bautista |
|
|---|---|
|
Title |
Box Office Earnings |
|
Avengers: Endgame (2019) |
$2.7 billion |
|
Avengers: Infinity War (2018) |
$2 billion |
|
Spectre (2015) |
$879 million |
|
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017) |
$869 million |
|
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023) |
$845 million |
|
Guardians of the Galaxy (2014) |
$770 million |
|
Thor: Love and Thunder (2022) |
$760 million |
|
Dune: Part Two (2024) |
$714 million |
|
Dune (2021) |
$429 million |
|
Blade Runner 2049 (2017) |
$258 million |
While the Fast & Furious series is known for its light-hearted and entertaining approach, Bautista possesses the dramatic chops to deliver poignant and convincing performances within that context. His undeniable charisma would have enabled him to integrate seamlessly into Dom’s crew, matching their energetic and unpredictable spirit. Furthermore, his experience as a villain, whether as a prominent henchman or lead antagonist, positions him as a formidable candidate for various roles. Although the prospect of Bautista joining the Fast & Furious franchise now remains a what-if scenario, his illustrious career indicates that he would have excelled in this iconic series.
Source: Collider
Leave a Reply