Anthony Mackie Unveils Mind-Blowing Plans for Twisted Metal Revival with Thrilling New Character!

Summary

This extraordinary production boasts an incredible ensemble cast, including the talented Anthony Mackie, Stephanie Beatriz, Neve Campbell, Samoa Joe, Will Arnett, Richard Cabral, and Thomas Haden Church. Notably, Mackie and Arnett also take on the role of executive producers, adding their expertise to ensure an unforgettable viewing experience.

According to Mackie, Director Michael Jonathan Smith has expanded the realm of Twisted Metal in order to create more complex characters. The show delves deeper into the story to provide a richer understanding of the game's universe.

Derived from the popular PlayStation game series of the same name, Twisted Metal centers around quick-witted John Doe, an outsider plagued by amnesia, who receives an opportunity for a brighter future. Entrusted with delivering a mysterious package through a post-apocalyptic wasteland, John Doe must navigate a myriad of perils, including lethal vehicle-wielding marauders, to fulfill his mission and strive for a better tomorrow.

Peacock's Twisted Metal was developed by Rhett Reese, Paul Wernick, and Michael Jonathan Smith, who serves as the showrunner. The series features a talented cast including Anthony Mackie, Stephanie Beatriz, Neve Campbell, Samoa Joe, also known as Joe Seanoa, Will Arnett, Richard Cabral, and Thomas Haden Church. Mackie and Arnett also serve as executive producers on the show. All 10 episodes of Twisted Metal will be available on Peacock starting July 27.

In a recent interview with Screen Rant, Anthony Mackie discusses the world-building efforts of Michael Jonathan Smith in Twisted Metal and how it enhances the overall story, delighting fans of the game. Mackie also provides insights into his character, John Doe, and shares his experience working alongside Samoa Joe. Note: This interview took place prior to the SAG-AFTRA strike, and it's important to recognize the contributions of the writers and actors from WGA and SAG-AFTRA in bringing the show to life.

Anthony Mackie Talks Twisted Metal

Screen Rant: This show perfectly captures the essence of Twisted Metal that I desired. As someone who played this game as a child, it fulfills all my expectations. Let's talk about your character, John Doe, and what drew you to this incredibly violent yet highly entertaining action comedy.

Anthony Mackie: Hey, man! It's great to see you! John Doe is an amazing character who possesses a youthful perspective on the world. The story takes place 15 years after the apocalypse, and John has no recollection of his past. He navigates through the world, searching for his identity, but what sets him apart is his cheerful and carefree nature. He genuinely enjoys his life and everything it offers. He has a remarkable ability to make the best out of any situation. In fact, he embodies the saying, "If life hands him lemons, he'll make lemonade."

I absolutely love it! Sweet Tooth, one of the most iconic characters in the Twisted Metal franchise, is brilliantly portrayed by Samoa Joe. As a huge wrestling fan, I'm intrigued to know how Samoa Joe brought out the physicality of Sweet Tooth.

Anthony Mackie: This guy moves like a ballerina, seriously. Samoa Joe put in some incredible physical effort, almost like commedia dell'arte, while delivering his lines flawlessly. He's genuinely talented as an actor, just a tad forceful, but overall he's phenomenal! [Laughs]

The Twisted Metal games lacked a substantial narrative, but they made up for it with intense vehicular combat featuring superdeath cars. Could you discuss working with Michael Jonathan Smith to further develop the Twisted Metal universe?

Anthony Mackie: Definitely, MJ had a clear vision of the story's scope and what he wanted to achieve with Twisted Metal. He excels in crafting character arcs and ensuring that they feel three-dimensional. You can see this in the show, much like in Cobra Kai. It also helped that we had two incredibly talented writers from Deadpool and Zombieland on board for this project.

The way he portrayed these characters and their world added a sense of depth and realism. It enhances the understanding of the video game when played after watching the show, as you develop a relationship with the characters rather than simply engaging in car battles. Now, you can comprehend the reasons behind their conflicts and preferences. The connection between the video game and the show is remarkably well-executed.

You all did an exceptional job in capturing the desired tone of this world. The music in Twisted Metal is absolutely fantastic. It feels like a captivating road trip story between John Doe and Quiet. What songs from the early 2000s would you choose for their journey together?

Anthony Mackie: Personally, I would opt for a selection of LL Cool J tracks. I was a massive fan of Tupac, Biggie, Busta Rhymes, LL Cool J, Tribe, and I would definitely include some Black Sheep. This playlist would undeniably be legendary, it would truly be an epic playlist.

About Twisted Metal

Replete with amnesia and dreams of an improved destiny, John Doe emerges as an articulate outsider. Seizing the chance to embark on a fresh assignment, he encounters a perilous expedition through a desolate, post-apocalyptic terrain, entrusted with the enigmatic delivery of a clandestine parcel. Amidst innumerable perils lurking in his path, he valiantly strives to accomplish his designated mission.

Check back soon for our other Twisted Metal interviews here:

Stephanie Beatriz

Thomas Haden Church

Samoa Joe aka Joe Seanoa

Twisted Metal debuts on Peacock on July 27.

Source: Screen Rant Plus