The Lethal Weapon movies are an example of Hollywood getting franchise filmmaking right. 1987’s Lethal Weapon saw Mel Gibson and Danny Glover paired as mismatched cops Riggs and Murtaugh and we were able to watch their friendship grow and develop across three sequels. Their chemistry is what makes those films so special and why they stand head and shoulders above all imitators. 

The last film in the series was Lethal Weapon 4 way back in 1998, but over the last couple of years there have been rumours about a potential fifth and final sequel. Movies In Focus had the amazing opportunity to speak with director Richard Donner, the genius behind the movies and he dropped a bit of information on how Lethal Weapon 5 is progressing. Here’s what he had to say. 

Richard Donner: Lethal Weapon was this incredible relationship. Out of situations something evolved. I love those movies. I’m in the process of getting the fifth and final one written. 

I’ve hired a writer to deliver me a draft  – as we speak. 

Movies In Focus: Will we hear more about that soon?

Richard Donner: If I get a good draft. You never know, it’s a tough, fifth picture to make. 

Movies In Focus: Mel Gibson and Danny Glover are involved?

Richard Donner: They’re chafing at the bit. 

Movies in Focus: Apart from Lethal Weapon 5, is there anything else you’re working on as a director?

Richard Donner: No. I’m woking on kicking back and going to my home up north and living on a boat a little bit and enjoying my life. Having a good time. I’m not very interested in making movies – except for Lethal 5. And that we don’t know whether it’s going to happen. 

Movies In Focus: Has the studio signed-off on it, are they happy to go?

Richard Donner: Warner Bros has been very gracious and waiting for the script as I am. But we’ll see. Time will tell. 

Read – Interview: Richard Donner On THE OMEN & SUPERMAN – Part 1