Summary
The new Expendables 4 red band trailer hypes the film's graphic violence and a return to the franchise's roots.
The Expendables 3 received a PG-13 rating, causing the franchise's loyal fan base to feel disconnected. However, the latest installment has been rated R, indicating a clear correction in direction.
One of the aspects that make the franchise enjoyable is its excessive display of blood and violence, and the new sequel's reversion to this element is a positive indication.
The highly anticipated red band trailer for The Expendables 4 has arrived, showcasing the film's intense and graphic violence. Helmed by Scott Waugh, this sequel brings back fan favorites Sylvester Stallone as Barney Ross and Jason Statham as Lee Christmas, along with the rest of the team, as they embark on a perilous new mission. Returning to its original formula after the mixed response to The Expendables 3's PG-13 rating in 2014, this upcoming installment stays true to the franchise's roots. Get a thrilling glimpse of the action-packed film in the red band trailer released by the Lionsgate YouTube channel.
The Expendables 4's R-Rating Was The Right Choice
Furthermore, the trailer emphasizes not only a multitude of explosive action sequences and chaotic car crashes but also emphasizes the film's unapologetic portrayal of violence and gore, showcasing several instances where enemies meet their demise in horrifying and graphic manners.The Expendables films have never been well-received by critics, but they did resonate with certain audiences who appreciated seeing Hollywood's top action stars join forces for thrilling and violent escapades. Due to the older age of the majority of the cast and the films' R-rating, the first two installments garnered more favor among a slightly older demographic. In an attempt to attract younger viewers, The Expendables 3 was given a PG-13 rating. However, this decision ultimately failed to achieve the desired outcome, as the film failed to appeal to both younger audiences and the franchise's core demographic.
The violence depicted in the first two movies is excessively exaggerated, showcasing Stallone, Statham, Dolph Lundgren, and other actors gruesomely dispatching their enemies with bloody splatters and graphic dismemberments. Nevertheless, this intense violence adds to the enjoyment of the films without detracting from their not-so-serious tone. Surprisingly, it appears that this graphic violence is a vital ingredient for the franchise's success.
While The Expendables 4's R-rating shows promise, it remains uncertain whether audiences will continue to embrace the franchise. The trailer showcases more underwhelming CGI and green screen effects compared to previous installments, which could potentially work against it. Intended as Stallone's farewell, the film sets up Statham's character for a more prominent leadership role. If The Expendables 4 proves to be a success, there is a strong possibility that Statham will return for future movies, all of which ideally maintain an R-rating.
Source: Lionsgate/ YouTube