Some movies become instant classics! In 2004, Queen Latifah joined the cast in a “Taxi” remake. It was a project that looked promising at the beginning, but audiences didn’t seem to enjoy the movie! It only got a 9% rating from Rotten Tomatoes! However, even the failures have something to say, making them intriguing stories, especially in this instance as a co-writer of the original “Taxi”, Thomas Lennon (who had just starred in the film “Chosen Family”) spoke with Screen Rant about what might have been. This included thoughts about whether or not this flop had another chance to be released.
Taxi 2
It is possible to remake an iconic series, sometimes, and still not meet audiences' expectations.
One of those moments was the remake of the 1998 French film, called "Taxi," that Queen Latifah, starred in and had the amazing Jimmy Fallon as the hapless cop in this action comedy!
Even the director of "Night at the Museum,” Lennon and his friend, Robert Ben Garant worked on a sequel before audiences ever had the chance to experience what would come out of “Taxi 2!” And that included an amazing amount of anticipation!
- This initial version was such a success, 20th Century Fox gave a big, special greenlight to do more, signing deals for it all.
In just a short period, they got an amazing opportunity. After a big thumbs-up for “Taxi," with its testing phase they even had all the details down. What makes it even more special was that the writers “were positive it was going to be a giant hit!”
The Box Office Disappointment:
Sometimes it’s about being willing to look at new ventures! Even with an almost-guaranteed sequel and plans for what would happen in “Taxi 2,” something major occurred, which might have taken the entire Fox production into a slightly unexpected place.
- Lennon explained that it “was such a huge flop,” so even if the test runs were stellar the actual premiere left much to be desired.
What might stand out, even more? There were critics. It appears the big movie reviewer, Roger Ebert was a fan of pointing out how terrible some movies could be! He loved these harsh and negative moments of feedback in a fun way! For one film review that wasn't that enjoyable for Lennon. Ebert called “Taxi” one of the movies that “sucked.” And even wrote a whole book! It even made its way to Lennon and gave him the “Merry Christmas” book.
A New Journey “Night at the Museum”
It seems these writers were still determined and ready for their careers. It’s amazing that those who had a negative, unfortunate encounter like this might not be thrown for a loop.
It appears the story didn't stop there. In the most amazing turn of events! What was a surefire deal and even something Fox “made” Lennon sign for the sequel became a big change. Lennon was given three different ideas and what stands out to those watching?
Well, if you look at what the duo chose? They brought to life the iconic "Night at the Museum!" There really isn't a better moment for a good, inspiring and humorous turn!
How Did Taxi Impact Other Movie Deals
To see the success of some of Lennon and Robert Ben Garant’s movies. This is the big, defining point that makes "Night at the Museum" so compelling as an inspiration! Fans love this duo who had many successful projects. Their creative vision really gave Lennon and Garant the chance to show off how great they were!
One of the projects before “Taxi" and that one where the duo shined?
RENO 911! had a special place as well as a cult following!
That is a police comedy series that helped put the duo on the map.
What’s even better! The studio continued to keep Lennon and Garant in its stable, even working with the two for another Disney show and it's one that became a big, surprising hit. Fans still want to hear from these artists and maybe even see these duo's collaborate once again!
- That included working on a great "Herbie Fully Loaded"
- Lennon, Garant and some incredible actors got to put their creativity to work.
As for the box office, they hit a high of over $574 Million!
The movie was such a hit! And it ended up getting a trilogy with Lennon, Garant even having a hand in the creation of another installment. The duo continued to add to its filmography and remake this beloved show. That is something audiences loved. They also made an incredible "RENO 911: Miami,” making a fantastic adventure on a whole new level and one for those of you who loved the show!
Will There Be A Taxi 2?
Even though this initial release had so many criticisms and struggles. There's a good reason to see why fans would love another big outing, maybe this time with even more excitement!
There have been some big recent hits that had an edge of satire, but really brought together two, very strong comedic stars. Those are:
- Bad Boys: Ride or Die
- Deadpool and Wolverine
For this reason it makes a perfect opportunity for another film!
Queen Latifah and Fallon are also looking for more. So they're in it. Fans have expressed excitement as Lennon and Garant seem like the right choice to revive this iconic show. With their great track record! There have been new moments that have shown these great artists what they can create and they continue to do more.
There's still a long way to go before the movie can hit theaters but it has an enormous fan base that’s still willing to watch and it might just be the moment to see another big release and an incredible reunion. The world of entertainment, after a long time can give those who enjoyed “Taxi,” one last adventure, even for those who felt it was never good!
