Did Eastwood Considered a 2nd Josey Wales Film?

Clint Eastwood's 1976 classic, The Outlaw Josey Wales, remains a beloved film in the Western genre. Fans of this iconic movie have often wondered if there was ever a plan for a sequel.

Was Eastwood interested in continuing the story of Josey Wales? The answer is yes—Eastwood did consider a second film. Let’s delve into the details of this planned sequel and why it never came to fruition.

The Original Plan for a Sequel: "The Vengeance Trail of Josey Wales"

Clint Eastwood, renowned for his directorial and acting skills, initially planned to adapt The Vengeance Trail of Josey Wales as a follow-up to The Outlaw Josey Wales.

This sequel was based on the 1976 novel by Forrest Carter, the same author whose work inspired the original film. The plot of the sequel would have followed Josey Wales as he continued his journey in the rugged Wild West, still pursued by those who sought vengeance.

The idea of continuing Josey Wales' story was appealing. The character of Josey Wales, a hardened but honorable gunslinger, had struck a chord with audiences, making them eager for more.

Eastwood, known for his passion for Westerns, seemed like the perfect person to bring this sequel to life. However, things did not go as planned.

Why the Sequel Was Canceled: Behind the Scenes Challenges

Despite Clint Eastwood's initial interest in directing and starring in The Vengeance Trail of Josey Wales, the project faced several obstacles. One major issue was the script.

The screenplay needed to capture the essence of Carter's novel while aligning with Eastwood’s vision. This proved to be a challenge, and disagreements about the direction of the script led to delays.

Another reason the sequel was shelved was the changing landscape of the film industry during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Westerns were losing popularity, and studios were more reluctant to invest in a genre that no longer guaranteed box-office success.

Clint Eastwood himself began to explore different genres, expanding his directorial portfolio with films like Escape from Alcatraz (1979) and Firefox (1982).

Clint Eastwood's Shift in Focus: New Projects and Opportunities

As the Western genre declined, Clint Eastwood’s career took on new directions. While he remained fond of Westerns, he opted to explore other film styles and narratives.

His decision to pivot away from The Vengeance Trail of Josey Wales allowed him to pursue a wider range of projects. This decision also gave rise to some of his most acclaimed works, such as Unforgiven (1992), which marked a significant return to the Western genre.

While Unforgiven was not directly related to Josey Wales, it showcased Eastwood's continued ability to master the Western form.

It also allowed him to reflect on themes of violence, justice, and redemption—similar themes that were present in The Outlaw Josey Wales.

The Legacy of "The Outlaw Josey Wales" Without a Sequel

Though a sequel never came to life, The Outlaw Josey Wales stands strong as a masterpiece in its own right. Its influence on the Western genre cannot be understated.

The film’s portrayal of a man struggling with loss and seeking vengeance resonated deeply with viewers. Clint Eastwood's depiction of Josey Wales as a flawed, yet principled, hero solidified his place in Hollywood as one of the greatest Western stars and directors.

Moreover, the idea of a sequel still lingers among fans, keeping the legacy of Josey Wales alive.

The story, the character, and the themes continue to capture the imagination of both old and new audiences. Even without a sequel, the story of Josey Wales remains a defining moment in cinematic history.

Conclusion: Could There Be a Future for Josey Wales?

While the prospect of a second Josey Wales film remains a “what could have been” in Hollywood lore, the potential for revisiting the character is not entirely out of the question.

With the resurgence of interest in classic Westerns and Eastwood's enduring legacy, a new generation of filmmakers could one day revive Josey Wales’ story. Until then, fans can enjoy the rich storytelling and gripping performances that make The Outlaw Josey Wales a timeless classic.

In conclusion, while Clint Eastwood did consider a sequel, circumstances led to the cancellation of The Vengeance Trail of Josey Wales. Despite this, the character and story of Josey Wales continue to live on, undiminished by time or missed opportunities.