Almost four decades have elapsed since Emilio Estevez first brandished his revolver as the charismatic Billy the Kid in the iconic Western flick, "Young Guns." On Thursday, the versatile actor made a grand appearance at the New Mexico State Capitol during the Film and Media Day, where he joyously announced his impending return to the very place where his legendary journey began to helm and reprise his role in the next thrilling chapter of the franchise: "Young Guns 3: Dead or Alive." Accompanying him in this cinematic odyssey will be the original cast members, Lou Diamond Phillips and Christian Slater, adding a nostalgic twist to the upcoming film.
During a lively press conference, Estevez humorously acknowledged the playful suggestions floating around about renaming the sequel "Old Guns," given the elapsed years. The original "Young Guns" premiered in 1988, capturing hearts and minds, and its success led to a sequel two years later, both of which were lensed in the scenic landscapes of New Mexico.
New Mexico boasts a storied history in the film industry, where its breathtaking and rugged terrains have served as the backdrop for countless Westerns featuring legends like John Wayne, Humphrey Bogart, Spencer Tracy, and Kirk Douglas. Today, the state has evolved into a hub for Netflix and NBCUniversal productions. Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham spotlighted "Young Guns" as a cornerstone in establishing New Mexico as a premiere filming destination, emphasizing that "Young Guns 3" will further enrich the state's cinematic legacy.
"This production epitomizes the essence of our film incentives—attracting high-caliber projects that not only showcase the breathtaking beauty of our state but also create jobs for New Mexicans," she enthused.
At 62, Estevez revealed that preliminary work on the film is already underway, albeit officials remained tight-lipped about the exact shooting schedule. The plot remains shrouded in mystery, although Estevez and Phillips have subtly hinted in recent interviews about the franchise's possible return to the silver screen. Penned by Estevez and John Fusco, "Young Guns 3" will be produced by Morgan Creek, promising yet another thrilling adventure in the wild west.
