The Big Lebowski may not have been a big success upon its release 25 years ago (seriously?!) but the movie has since become a huge cult favourite for millions of fans. There has also been talk of a Big Lebowski sequel every so often, and although the likelihood of it happening is slim, Jeff Bridges is keen to return.
Jeff Bridges told People he’s open to a Big Lebowski sequel, but only if Joel and Ethan Coen are involved. “Oh God! If the brothers were involved, I certainly would,” Bridges said. “The brothers, they’re mysterious and full of surprises. You don’t know what they’re going to do, so since they’re surprising, I don’t think they’ll make a sequel. But like I say, they’re surprising, so maybe they’ll surprise me and make a sequel.” This isn’t the first time that Jeff Bridges has expressed his willingness to return for a Big Lebowski sequel, but the Coen Brothers have been pretty firm that they don’t want to return to that particular well.
The actor added that he can’t believe that it’s been so long since the release of The Big Lebowski. “That movie, I’m so proud to be a part of that movie. What a good one,” Bridges said. “When you hear Lebowski was 25 years ago, I say, ‘Come on, man. I can’t believe that.’ It feels like it was maybe five years ago, but 25? I can’t believe it.“
Although a sequel to The Big Lebowski may not be in the cards, John Turturro did reprise his role of Jesus Quintana for The Jesus Rolls. The film doubled as a Big Lebowski spinoff and a remake of Bertrand Blier’s Going Places. Jeff Bridges always knew The Big Lebowski would be successful, but admitted earlier this year that he was surprised it wasn’t instantly accepted. “I thought it was going to be a big hit,” Bridges said. “I was surprised when it didn’t get much recognition. People didn’t get it, or something.” It’s safe to say that audiences certainly “get” The Big Lebowski now. After all, not every movie gets an entire festival in its honour.