Mel Gibson recently shared updates on the status of Lethal Weapon 5 during an appearance at Fan Expo Boston. The project has faced delays due to studio transitions, but Gibson confirmed he still intends to direct the film and views the current script as the strongest in the series. He noted that the story stands on its own while keeping the core elements that defined the previous installments.
The director described the upcoming film as a lower-tech production compared to modern blockbusters. Instead of relying on massive set pieces or complex visual effects, the focus remains on character development. Gibson provided specific details about the protagonists, noting that both Riggs and Murtaugh have aged significantly. In this new chapter, one character is retired while the other handles desk work.
Development on the sequel began years ago following the passing of original director Richard Donner. Gibson explained that he sought to honor Donner's vision by asking himself how his mentor would approach the material. He collaborated with screenwriter Richard Wenk to finalize the draft, though corporate activity surrounding Warner Bros. and its potential absorption by Paramount created production hurdles.
Gibson remains optimistic that the project will eventually move forward. He indicated that upcoming corporate changes might remove current barriers and allow the production to begin within the next year or so. Fans of the franchise can expect a focus on the personal lives of the detectives rather than a departure into high-concept action spectacle.