A surprising force is behind the revival of a beloved action franchise: a former president’s unwavering fandom.Rush Hour 4is officially moving forward, not through typical Hollywood channels, but reportedly due to the direct intervention of Donald Trump.
Paramount Pictures is dusting off the Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker classic, bringing back Brett Ratner, the director of the original 1998 hit. Eighteen years after the third installment, Trump reportedly made the film’s resurrection a priority, personally lobbying on its behalf.
The story unfolds through reports detailing Trump’s persistent efforts with Larry Ellison, a major shareholder at Paramount’s parent company. He championed Ratner’s involvement, a move seemingly fueled by a close relationship forged during the making of a documentary about the former First Lady.
The originalRush Hourcaptivated audiences with its unlikely pairing of a Hong Kong inspector and a brash LAPD detective, thrown together to rescue a kidnapped child. The chemistry between Chan and Tucker launched two successful sequels, but the franchise remained dormant for nearly two decades.
Ratner’s return is notable, given the multiple allegations of sexual misconduct that led to Warner Bros. severing ties with him. His recent project, a documentary about Melania Trump, reportedly sold to a streaming service for a substantial sum, seemingly opening doors for his re-entry into feature films.
The deal structure forRush Hour 4is unusual. Paramount will handle distribution, but won’t shoulder the financial burden of production or marketing. Warner Bros. will receive a significant share of the box office revenue, recouping costs before any profits are distributed.
BeyondRush Hour, Trump’s cinematic preferences reveal a pattern. He’s not merely a viewer, but a vocal advocate for specific films, and appears to be actively seeking to bring his favorites back to the big screen. His influence extends beyond simply greenlighting projects; reports suggest he’s even offering creative input.
One film holds a particularly special place in Trump’s heart: the 1988 action spectacle,Bloodsport. A 1990s profile detailed his enthusiasm, describing it as “an incredible, fantastic movie” and a frequent re-watch, meticulously edited to maximize the action sequences.
He’s also expressed admiration forCitizen Kane, drawing parallels between himself and the film’s complex protagonist, Charles Foster Kane. He’s publicly discussed the themes of wealth and isolation depicted in the classic, though interpretations of his understanding of the film’s deeper messages have been debated.
Sergio Leone’s epic western,The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, also features on Trump’s list of favorites. He’s repeatedly praised Clint Eastwood’s performance, noting the characters’ resemblance to figures he’s encountered in the business world.
The Godfather, with its iconic lines and compelling narrative, has also captured Trump’s attention. He famously quoted the film during a conversation, highlighting its pragmatic view of business and personal relationships.
Even the sweeping romance ofGone with the Windhas earned a place in his affections. He lamented the film’s absence from modern awards shows, expressing a desire to see classics like it recognized once more.
This isn’t simply about nostalgia; it’s a glimpse into the mind of a powerful figure wielding influence in unexpected corners of the entertainment industry. The revival ofRush Hour, and the potential for more to follow, signals a new era where personal taste can reshape the Hollywood landscape.
