Robert Rodriguez Wants Mel Gibson to Star in ‘Machete’ Sequel

Mel Gibson’s attempts at resurrecting his career after a few highly-publicized meltdowns have been rocky, at best. Jodie Foster’s ‘The Beaver’ bombed. Recently, Warner Bros. passed on a screenplay Gibson acquired from ‘Basic Instinct’ writer Joe Eszterhas. But a celebrated cult director would like to lend Gibson a helping hand by casting him in a potential sequel.

Robert Rodriguez is moving forward on ‘Machete Kills,’ and appears to want the besmirched ‘Lethal Weapon’ star in a supporting role, according to Deadline. The site was reporting on Rodriguez's 'Sin City' sequel, subtitled 'A Dame to Kill For,' and dropped the rumor that Gibson and Michelle Williams are being pursued for roles alongside Danny Trejo.

If you ask me, it’s far less likely that Williams will give 'Machete' a go than Gibson agreeing to a role. The Oscar nominee is getting the chance now to explore deep character dramas like 'Blue Valentine' or anticipated franchise films like Sam Raimi's upcoming 'Wizard of Oz' prequel. No offense to Rodriguez, but he tends to work with actresses like Jessica Alba or Michelle Rodriguez (as in the first 'Machete'). Decent actresses, but hardly Oscar contenders.

Then again, Williams’ career often has been defined by bold and surprising choices, so I guess we’ll see.

Gibson, on the other hand, doesn't have the freedom to say "no" to much, so if Rodriguez is offering a part in 'Machete Kills,' expect the former A-lister to jump at the chance. Hey, Robert De Niro played a role in the first one. That has to count for something, right?