Exclusive: Steven Spielberg's Heartfelt Reunion with 'Need for Speed' Director Will Leave You in Awe

Summary

Need for Speed director Scott Waugh had a heartwarming reunion with filmmaker Steven Spielberg before filming the movie.

Spielberg acknowledged his past partnership with Waugh on Hook, marveling at his remarkable talent for remembering every person he has collaborated with.

Although there may be potential for a Need for Speed 2, it appears that Waugh will not be part of it. Nevertheless, the first film reunited them after a 21-year hiatus.

Speaking with The Hollywood Reporter, Scott Waugh, director of the film Need for Speed, revealed his heartwarming reunion with filmmaker Steven Spielberg before the start of production. Waugh expressed his surprise and joy when Spielberg recognized him from their previous collaboration on a film more than two decades ago.

Could Need For Speed 2 Ever Happen?

Yeah, that was truly remarkable. They invited me to meet with Steven, and I was incredibly anxious about the encounter. To be totally honest, it's Steven Spielberg we're talking about, and here I was, a stunt performer being asked to direct one of his films. So I entered the room and they had me sit in this boardroom with everyone, and Steven was seated right beside me. I glanced at him, and we engaged in some casual conversation for a brief moment. I mentioned, 'Steven, you and I actually collaborated before, but it was a while ago.' To my surprise, he looked at me with that discerning gaze of his and asked, 'Which movie?' I responded, 'Hook.' And he exclaimed, 'You were the double for the kid on the skateboard, weren't you?' I couldn't help but wonder, 'How does he remember every single person? We worked together [21] years ago.' He remembered me as a young individual. That's the essence of Steven Spielberg, and that's why I am Scott Waugh. (Laughs.) His amazing ability to remember everything truly sets him apart.

Despite raking in $203.3 million globally with a budget of $66 million, Need for Speed failed to meet box office expectations. Surprisingly, plans for a sequel were already in the making with a collaboration between EA Games and China Movie Channel. However, recent reports suggest that Need for Speed 2 may have been discreetly put on hold, leaving fans in uncertain anticipation.

If a sequel to Need for Speed 2 does happen, it appears that Waugh will not be involved. The director has already moved on to direct recent films like The Expendables 4 and Hidden Strike. Additionally, the sequel was planned to be filmed entirely in China, which is a significant departure from the original film's US setting. It is unclear if the new setting would allow for the return of actors like Paul who were part of the first film.

Despite the lack of updates on Need for Speed 2, the first film successfully brought Waugh and Spielberg back together after being apart for 21 years. If either director is still interested in adapting the franchise, they could collaborate to develop a new installment. However, for now, it seems that Need for Speed will remain a standalone movie filled with thrilling action and a remarkable behind-the-scenes story.

Source: THR