Charlize Theron, with unwavering conviction, declared that "The Old Guard 2" is poised for imminent release. The Academy Award winner revealed that the eagerly awaited sequel, having wrapped filming approximately two years prior, encountered a protracted delay primarily due to a shift in Netflix's leadership structure. "Netflix underwent a significant transformation," Theron disclosed during her Charlize Theron Africa Outreach Project Block Party on Saturday. "We unfortunately got caught in the crosshairs, and our post-production halted, I believe, five weeks into the process." The actors' and writers' strikes were also cited as factors that hindered the film's timely release. Despite these obstacles, Theron remained steadfast in her belief that the movie would see the light of day.
"They were navigating numerous changes, and I empathize with that," she said. "We eventually resumed work, and I'm immensely thrilled about it." The original "Old Guard" debuted in 2020, capturing the hearts of 72 million households within its first four weeks. Adapted from Greg Rucka's comic book of the same name and helmed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, the film showcased Theron as Andy, the leader of a small cadre of superhero-like immortals (including Kiki Layne, Matthias Schoenaerts, Marwan Kenzari, and Luca Marinelli), whose centuries-old secret existence is jeopardized by a malevolent pharmaceutical mogul bent on replicating their DNA.
The sequel, directed by Victoria Mahoney, boasts an ensemble cast that includes returning stars Theron, Layne, Schoenaerts, Kenzari, Marinelli, Veronica Ngo, and Chiwetel Ejiofor, alongside newcomers Uma Thurman and Henry Golding. "It's truly exceptional," Theron enthused. "This film holds immense significance for us. I only wanted to be a part of it if we could create something remarkable. And I genuinely adore this movie." In May 2023, "Old Guard" producer Marc Evans teased the possibility of a trilogy, stating, "The conclusion of the second installment begs for a third, which fills me with immense joy."
Meanwhile, Theron has also been indulging in her passion for dance. She recently inaugurated The Six Compound dance studio in Burbank. "I'm embarking on a dance journey with my children," she shared. "I felt compelled to contribute in this way. It's crucial for young individuals to have a space where they can dream and escape the realities of their daily lives. It's a form of escapism. We aspire to be inclusive and broaden the definition of what it truly means to be a dancer."
