The Old Guard 3: Release Date Predictions, Story Details & Cast Speculation

The Old Guard 3: Is Another Immortal Chapter Coming?

Netflix's action-packed adaptation of Greg Rucka and Leandro Fernández's graphic novel, The Old Guard, captivated audiences with its unique premise: a group of immortal warriors battling across centuries to protect humanity. The first film, released in 2020, was a massive success, quickly followed by a sequel, The Old Guard 2, in 2024. Now, fans are eagerly anticipating news about a potential third installment. But will The Old Guard 3 happen? Let's delve into everything we know so far, from release date predictions to potential plotlines and cast expectations.

The Old Guard Franchise: A Quick Recap

Before we dive into the future, let's briefly revisit the story so far.

• The Old Guard (2020): Introduces Andy (Andromache of Scythia), the oldest immortal, and her team: Booker, Joe, and Nicky. They discover Nile, a new immortal in the US Marines, and must protect her from a pharmaceutical executive seeking to exploit their immortality.
• The Old Guard 2 (2024): Andy's immortality is fading, and the team faces a new threat in the form of a long-lost immortal named Quynh, who seeks revenge against Andy for imprisoning her underwater centuries ago. The film concludes with a shocking revelation: Booker, previously banished for betraying the team, is tasked with finding James Corden's character, Merrick, hinting at a new challenge.

The Big Question: Will There Be an Old Guard 3?

As of October 26, 2023, Netflix has not officially announced The Old Guard 3. However, several factors suggest that a third film is highly likely. First, the franchise is popular. Both films have consistently ranked high on Netflix's viewership charts, indicating a strong audience demand. Second, the ending of The Old Guard 2 clearly sets up a continuation of the story, leaving several plot threads unresolved. Booker's mission to find Merrick, Andy's dwindling immortality, and the potential for new immortal characters all provide ample material for a third film. Third, Greg Rucka, the writer of the graphic novels and the screenwriter for both movies, has publicly expressed his desire to continue the story.

Release Date Predictions: When Could The Old Guard 3 Premiere?

Predicting release dates for Netflix movies can be tricky, as they often depend on various factors, including production schedules, cast availability, and the streamer's overall content strategy. However, we can make some educated guesses based on the release patterns of the previous films.

There was approximately a four-year gap between the release of The Old Guard and The Old Guard 2. This gap was partly due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly impacted film production schedules worldwide. If we assume that The Old Guard 3 will have a smoother production process, we might expect it to be released sooner.

Possible Release Windows:

• Late 2026: This timeline would require a relatively swift pre-production and production period, which is possible if the script is already in development and the cast is readily available.
• Early to Mid 2027: A more realistic estimate, considering the complexities of filming action sequences, coordinating a large ensemble cast, and the post-production work required for special effects.
• Late 2027/Early 2028: A more conservative estimate, accounting for potential delays or scheduling conflicts.

It's important to remember that these are just predictions. Until Netflix officially announces The Old Guard 3 and provides a release date, we can only speculate.

Potential Storylines: Where Could the Immortals' Journey Lead?

The Old Guard 2 left us with several intriguing plot threads that could be explored in a third film. Here are some of the most likely possibilities:

The Merrick Enigma

The most immediate storyline is Booker's mission to find James Corden's character, Merrick. Merrick was the antagonist in the first film, a ruthless pharmaceutical executive who sought to exploit the immortals' abilities for profit. He was seemingly killed at the end of the first film, but the sequel's ending implies that he is somehow still alive or that his influence lingers. Booker's journey to find him could uncover a larger conspiracy or reveal new threats that the Old Guard must face.

Possible Scenarios:

• Merrick's Resurrection: Perhaps Merrick found a way to cheat death, possibly using the immortals' blood or other advanced technology. This could lead to a confrontation with a more powerful and dangerous version of Merrick.
• Merrick's Legacy: Even if Merrick is truly dead, his company or his associates could still be pursuing the same goals: exploiting immortality for profit. This could introduce new villains and new challenges for the Old Guard.
• Booker's Redemption: Booker's task of finding Merrick could be a test of his loyalty and a chance for him to redeem himself in the eyes of the team after his betrayal in the first film.

Andy's Fading Immortality

A major plot point in The Old Guard 2 was Andy's gradual loss of her immortality. This raised significant questions about her future and the future of the team. Will she eventually die? If so, how will this affect the dynamic of the group? Will they find a way to restore her immortality?

Possible Scenarios:

• The Search for a Cure: The Old Guard might embark on a quest to find a way to restore Andy's immortality, possibly seeking ancient knowledge or advanced technology.
• Andy's Transformation: Andy's experience with mortality could change her perspective and her leadership style, forcing her to confront her past actions and make difficult choices.
• Succession and Leadership: Andy's potential death could lead to a power struggle within the team, as other members vie for leadership or have different ideas about the group's mission. Nile could rise to the occasion and become the de-facto leader.

Quynh's Revenge

Quynh, the long-lost immortal who was imprisoned underwater for centuries, emerged as a formidable antagonist in The Old Guard 2. While she seemingly abandoned her plans for revenge at the end of the film, her story is far from over. Her centuries of isolation and resentment could still pose a threat to the Old Guard in the future.

Possible Scenarios:

• Quynh's Redemption: Perhaps Quynh will eventually find a way to forgive Andy and reconcile with the team, potentially becoming an ally against a greater threat.
• Quynh's Manipulation: Quynh could be secretly plotting against the Old Guard, manipulating events from the shadows to achieve her own goals.
• Quynh's Search for Purpose: Quynh might struggle to find a new purpose in the modern world after centuries of isolation and trauma, leading her down a dark path.

New Immortals and New Powers

The Old Guard universe has the potential to introduce new immortal characters with unique abilities and backstories. This could add new dynamics to the team and create exciting new challenges.

Possible Scenarios:

• Discovering New Immortals: The Old Guard could encounter other immortals scattered across the globe, each with their own motivations and agendas.
• Exploring the Origins of Immortality: The third film could delve deeper into the origins of immortality, exploring the mysteries behind how and why certain individuals are chosen to live forever.
• New Threats to Immortality: The emergence of new technologies or scientific breakthroughs could pose new threats to the immortals' existence, forcing them to adapt and evolve.

Expansion of the Old Guard Universe

The graphic novels provide a rich tapestry of lore and mythology that could be further explored in the film franchise. This could include delving into the backstories of individual immortals, exploring their past adventures, and introducing new historical settings.

Possible Scenarios:

• Flashback Sequences: The third film could feature flashback sequences that reveal more about the immortals' past lives and their experiences throughout history.
• Exploring Different Time Periods: The Old Guard could travel to different time periods, either through flashbacks or through time travel (if the story allows for it), encountering historical figures and events.
• Expanding the World: The film could introduce new locations and cultures, showcasing the global reach of the Old Guard's mission.

Cast Speculation: Who Will Return for The Old Guard 3?

Assuming The Old Guard 3 gets the green light, we can expect most of the main cast members to return, including:

• Charlize Theron as Andromache of Scythia (Andy): Theron is the face of the franchise, and her return is essential for the film's success.
• KiKi Layne as Nile Freeman: Layne's character, Nile, is the newest member of the team, and her journey of self-discovery is likely to continue in the third film.
• Matthias Schoenaerts as Sebastian Le Livre (Booker): Schoenaerts' character, Booker, has a complex and conflicted past, and his storyline is far from over.
• Marwan Kenzari as Yusuf Al-Kaysani (Joe): Kenzari's character, Joe, is a loyal and devoted member of the team, and his relationship with Nicky is a fan favorite.
• Luca Marinelli as Niccolò di Genova (Nicky): Marinelli's character, Nicky, is Joe's partner and a skilled warrior.
• Uma Thurman as Quynh: While her character's fate is uncertain, Thurman's performance as Quynh was memorable, and her return could add another layer of complexity to the story.

It's also possible that new cast members will be added to the ensemble, depending on the direction of the story. The graphic novels introduce several other immortal characters who could potentially appear in the film franchise.

Behind-the-Scenes: Who Could Direct and Write The Old Guard 3?

Gina Prince-Bythewood directed the first Old Guard film, while Victoria Mahoney directed the second. It remains to be seen who will helm the third installment. Both directors brought a unique vision to the franchise, and either one could potentially return.

Greg Rucka, the writer of the graphic novels, wrote the screenplays for both The Old Guard and The Old Guard 2. His involvement in the third film would ensure that the story remains faithful to the source material and that the characters are portrayed accurately. Rucka's deep understanding of the Old Guard universe makes him the ideal candidate to write the screenplay for the third film. He has a clear vision for the characters and their journeys, and his writing style perfectly captures the tone and atmosphere of the graphic novels.

The Popularity of Immortal Stories: Why We're Hooked

The Old Guard's success is part of a larger trend: the enduring appeal of stories about immortality. From vampires and elves to ancient gods and mythical heroes, humans have always been fascinated by the idea of living forever. But what is it about immortality that captivates us so deeply?

Possible Reasons for the Fascination:

• The Fear of Death: Immortality offers an escape from the ultimate human fear: death. It allows us to imagine a world without limitations, where we can continue to learn, grow, and experience life without end.
• The Desire for Power: Immortality often comes with enhanced abilities or powers, making immortal characters seem godlike and invincible. This appeals to our desire for control and mastery over our own lives.
• The Exploration of Morality: Immortal characters often face unique moral dilemmas, as they must grapple with the consequences of their actions over vast stretches of time. This allows us to explore complex ethical questions and consider the meaning of life.
• The Reflection of Human History: Immortal stories can serve as a mirror to human history, allowing us to examine our past triumphs and failures through the eyes of characters who have witnessed them firsthand.

The Old Guard taps into these themes by presenting a nuanced and complex portrayal of immortality. The characters are not simply invincible superheroes; they are flawed and vulnerable individuals who struggle with the burdens of their eternal existence. They experience loss, regret, and disillusionment, and they must constantly question their purpose and their place in the world.

The Old Guard's Legacy: Beyond the Films

The Old Guard has not only been a successful film franchise but has also had a significant impact on popular culture. The characters have resonated with audiences around the world, and the story has inspired fan art, cosplay, and online communities.

The Impact of the Franchise:

• Representation: The Old Guard features a diverse cast of characters, including LGBTQ+ representation and strong female leads. This has been praised by fans and critics alike.
• Action and Storytelling: The franchise blends action-packed fight sequences with thought-provoking storytelling, creating a compelling and engaging experience for viewers.
• The Graphic Novels: The films have brought renewed attention to the graphic novels, introducing a wider audience to Greg Rucka and Leandro Fernández's work.

Conclusion: The Future Looks Immortal for The Old Guard

While The Old Guard 3 has not yet been officially announced, the franchise's popularity, the unresolved plot threads, and the creative team's enthusiasm all suggest that a third film is highly likely. Based on the release patterns of the previous films, we can expect The Old Guard 3 to premiere sometime between late 2026 and early 2028. The film could explore a variety of storylines, including Booker's mission to find Merrick, Andy's fading immortality, Quynh's potential for revenge or redemption, and the introduction of new immortal characters.

The Old Guard has captured the imaginations of audiences worldwide with its unique blend of action, adventure, and thoughtful storytelling. As we eagerly await news about the third installment, one thing is clear: the immortals' journey is far from over.

Stay tuned for further updates and announcements regarding The Old Guard 3. We will continue to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information as it becomes available. Be sure to check back regularly for the latest news, rumors, and speculation.