It’s always a thrill when a beloved action gem from the past gets a potential shot at a revival, and the news that Geena Davis is game for a sequel to The Long Kiss Goodnight has certainly sparked my interest. This 1996 film, penned by the brilliant Shane Black, is a cult classic for a reason. It’s more than just an action flick; it’s a witty, character-driven ride that often gets overlooked in the pantheon of great 90s action movies.
A Legacy of Action Heroines
Geena Davis, alongside her then-husband Renny Harlin, carved out a significant space for herself in the action genre with both Cutthroat Island and The Long Kiss Goodnight. While we often celebrate the likes of Angelina Jolie or Charlize Theron for their contributions to female-led action, Davis was a trailblazer in this arena. What makes The Long Kiss Goodnight so special, in my opinion, is the dynamic between Davis's Samantha Caine and Samuel L. Jackson's Mitch Henessey. Their chemistry is electric, and the film perfectly balances high-octane action with genuinely funny buddy-comedy moments. Jackson himself has often spoken fondly of the film, calling it a favorite, which speaks volumes about the joy of its creation.
The Sequel Dream
It’s not just Jackson who holds the film dear; Davis recently expressed her own affection for it during the Bentonville Film Festival. She candidly admitted that while Thelma & Louise is irreplaceable, The Long Kiss Goodnight holds a special place because of the sheer fun she had with Sam. This sentiment is particularly heartwarming. What’s even more fascinating is the detail that the ending was altered to ensure Mitch Henessey’s survival, a clear indication that the possibility of a sequel was on the table even back then. It’s a testament to the film’s enduring appeal and the creative team’s foresight. And the best part? Davis believes they’re “not too old” for a return, which, from my perspective, is exactly the kind of spirit we need to see more of in Hollywood.
Beyond the Kiss: A New Action Frontier
Davis hasn't been resting on her laurels, either. She's gearing up for another action-packed adventure, The Kellys, alongside none other than Arnold Schwarzenegger. This project, also featuring Liam Hemsworth and directed by Brad Peyton, sounds like a return to form for classic action. The mere mention of Arnold Schwarzenegger in the same breath as a new action film is enough to get fans excited. Davis’ description of it as a “full-on action movie and very funny too and really fun” is exactly what I look for in a modern action spectacle. It suggests a blend of thrilling sequences with a good dose of humor, a combination that made The Long Kiss Goodnight so successful.
The Enduring Appeal of the Action Comeback
Personally, I think the desire for sequels to films like The Long Kiss Goodnight stems from a deep-seated nostalgia, but also from a genuine appreciation for well-crafted action-comedies. In an era often dominated by franchise fatigue and superhero saturation, there’s a craving for original stories with compelling characters and a unique voice. The fact that both Geena Davis and Samuel L. Jackson are eager to revisit their roles suggests that the magic of their on-screen partnership is something they also cherish. It raises a deeper question: what other forgotten action gems from the 90s deserve a second chance? The possibility of seeing Samantha Caine and Mitch Henessey back in action is a thrilling prospect, and I, for one, will be eagerly anticipating any further developments. It’s a reminder that great stories, and the actors who bring them to life, can indeed stand the test of time.
