Clint Eastwood’s unlikely partnership with Clyde, the orangutan, in Every Which Way But Loose and Any Which Way You Can became a surprise box office phenomenon. While the on-screen chemistry was undeniable, the tantalizing question remains: Did Eastwood ever seriously consider a third film featuring this iconic duo? The answer, based on available evidence and anecdotal accounts, appears to be a tentative, yet ultimately abandoned, “yes.” While no official greenlight was ever given, early discussions and script ideas circulated, hinting at a potential continuation of the Philo Beddoe saga.
The Unlikely Partnership: A Retrospective
The success of Every Which Way But Loose in 1978 was nothing short of astonishing. Eastwood, known for his serious roles in Westerns and action films, embraced a lighter, more comedic persona alongside his simian co-star. Clyde, played by multiple orangutans (mostly, Buddy), quickly became a fan favorite, adding a layer of unexpected warmth and humor to the narrative. This led to the sequel, Any Which Way You Can, which further solidified the duo’s popularity and box office draw.
The Rumors of a Third Installment
Whispers of a third film began to surface shortly after the release of Any Which Way You Can in 1980. Several factors contributed to this speculation. Firstly, the financial success of the first two films made a sequel a logical, albeit creatively risky, proposition. Studios are often hesitant to abandon a proven formula, especially when it guarantees a significant return on investment. Secondly, Eastwood, despite his initial reservations about the first film, seemed to enjoy the comedic outlet provided by the “Every Which Way” franchise. The prospect of revisiting this lighter side of his acting repertoire likely held some appeal.
Why a Third Film Never Materialized
Despite the initial buzz, a third “Every Which Way” film never came to fruition. Several compelling reasons likely contributed to this decision.
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Eastwood’s Evolving Career: In the early 1980s, Eastwood was actively expanding his role behind the camera, directing and producing films that explored more complex and challenging themes. Firefox, Honkytonk Man, and Sudden Impact were all released in the years following Any Which Way You Can, signaling a shift towards more serious and ambitious projects. The broad comedy of the “Every Which Way” series may have no longer aligned with his evolving artistic vision.
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The Challenge of Maintaining Originality: Sequels often struggle to recapture the magic of the original. Repeating the same comedic beats and plot structures risked diminishing the appeal of the franchise. Creating a fresh and engaging story that felt true to the spirit of the first two films would have been a significant creative challenge.
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Logistical Difficulties with Clyde: Working with animals, particularly primates, presents inherent challenges. Ensuring the safety and well-being of the orangutans, managing their training, and dealing with their unpredictable behavior on set requires specialized expertise and resources. While Buddy proved to be a reliable performer, the logistics of orchestrating a third film likely weighed heavily on the production team.
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Shifting Audience Tastes: While the “Every Which Way” films were undeniably popular, audience tastes are constantly evolving. The comedic landscape of the 1980s was undergoing significant changes, and the broad, slapstick humor of the franchise may have begun to feel somewhat dated.
The Legacy of Philo Beddoe and Clyde
Regardless of whether a third film was ever seriously considered, the legacy of Philo Beddoe and Clyde remains firmly cemented in popular culture. The films offered a unique blend of action, comedy, and heart, showcasing Eastwood’s versatility as an actor and his willingness to embrace unconventional roles. The unlikely friendship between a rugged truck driver and an orangutan resonated with audiences worldwide, proving that sometimes, the most unexpected partnerships can lead to the greatest success.
FAQs: Unpacking the Mystery
Here are some frequently asked questions exploring different aspects of the Philo Beddoe and Clyde phenomenon, and the potential for a third film.
FAQ 1: Was there ever a script written for a third “Every Which Way” film?
While no fully completed script has ever surfaced, anecdotal accounts suggest that ideas were explored, and preliminary drafts may have been developed. However, none progressed to the point of being officially greenlit for production.
FAQ 2: Who would have been involved in the third film’s production?
Presumably, Clint Eastwood would have returned as Philo Beddoe, with likely involvement from production companies like Malpaso Productions (Eastwood’s company) and Warner Bros. It’s also safe to assume that many of the original cast members, such as Sondra Locke, Geoffrey Lewis, and Ruth Gordon, would have been approached.
FAQ 3: What were some of the proposed plot ideas for a third film?
Details are scarce, but some rumored plot ideas involved Philo and Clyde getting involved in international intrigue, or perhaps a cross-country adventure with a new set of eccentric characters. Nothing was officially confirmed.
FAQ 4: Did Clint Eastwood ever publicly comment on the possibility of a third film?
Eastwood has been relatively tight-lipped about the possibility of a third “Every Which Way” film. While he has acknowledged the popularity of the first two films, he has generally avoided discussing specific plans for a sequel.
FAQ 5: Was Sondra Locke’s involvement a factor in the potential third film?
Sondra Locke, Eastwood’s then-partner, played a significant role in the first two films. Given their personal relationship at the time, her involvement would have likely been considered, though their eventual breakup potentially complicated matters.
FAQ 6: How did the orangutans, specifically Buddy, affect the filmmaking process?
Working with orangutans presented unique challenges and rewards. Buddy, the primary orangutan who played Clyde, was known for his relatively calm temperament and trainability, but working with any animal requires patience, flexibility, and a commitment to their well-being.
FAQ 7: Were there any concerns about animal welfare during the filming of the “Every Which Way” movies?
While the production team undoubtedly took steps to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals involved, concerns about animal welfare in entertainment have always been a sensitive topic. Modern sensibilities would likely demand even stricter protocols.
FAQ 8: How did the success of these films impact Clint Eastwood’s career?
The “Every Which Way” films broadened Eastwood’s appeal and demonstrated his versatility as an actor. While he is primarily known for his serious roles, these comedies showcased his ability to connect with audiences in a lighter and more accessible way.
FAQ 9: Could a reboot or remake of the “Every Which Way” franchise ever happen?
Given the enduring popularity of the original films, a reboot or remake is certainly a possibility. However, capturing the unique charm and chemistry of the original would be a significant challenge. Modern audiences may also have different expectations regarding animal treatment in film.
FAQ 10: Where can I watch the original “Every Which Way” films?
The original “Every Which Way But Loose” and “Any Which Way You Can” are typically available on various streaming platforms, for rent or purchase on digital retailers, and on DVD/Blu-ray.
FAQ 11: What made Clyde the orangutan so appealing to audiences?
Clyde’s appeal stemmed from his unexpected presence in a typically masculine action film. He provided a source of humor, warmth, and unconditional companionship, contrasting sharply with Eastwood’s stoic persona.
FAQ 12: Is there a documentary or book about the making of the “Every Which Way” films?
While no dedicated documentary or book exists specifically about the making of the “Every Which Way” films, behind-the-scenes information can be found in biographies of Clint Eastwood and articles about the history of Warner Bros. Studios.
In conclusion, while a third “Every Which Way” film remains a tantalizing “what if,” the combination of Eastwood’s shifting career focus, the creative challenges of maintaining originality, and the inherent difficulties of working with animals ultimately contributed to its abandonment. However, the legacy of Philo Beddoe and Clyde endures, reminding us of the power of unlikely partnerships and the enduring appeal of comedy.