After more than ten years without a new installment, the iconic Splinter Cell franchise is making a comeback. While fans eagerly await the game remake, Sam Fisher returns in the animated series Splinter Cell: Deathwatch, now available on Netflix.
Derek Kolstad, acclaimed for his work as creator and writer on the initial three John Wick movies, recently discussed his vision for Splinter Cell: Deathwatch. He touched upon respecting the original game`s lore and maintaining the high standard established by Michael Ironside, the original voice of Sam Fisher.
Kolstad`s Gaming Background and Splinter Cell Connection
Kolstad identifies as a casual gamer currently, attributing this to raising eight-year-old twins and a demanding career. He recalls spending significant time on games like Skyrim, Diablo 3, and Diablo 4. His connection to Splinter Cell stems from being a devoted reader of Tom Clancy novels in the 1980s, making the game`s release a natural excitement for him.
He admitted struggling with the early Splinter Cell games, as his shooter mentality conflicted with the required stealth gameplay. Although he played only the initial entries before life commitments took over, Kolstad developed a deep affection for Sam Fisher and the franchise. He regards Tom Clancy and Splinter Cell as foundational pillars, expressing a strong desire to honor their legacy with his adaptation.
Adapting the Franchise: From Games to Animation
Addressing the challenge of adapting a beloved intellectual property, Kolstad highlighted the need to satisfy three distinct groups: gamers, the general audience, and Tom Clancy enthusiasts. His initial approach for Deathwatch drew inspiration from narratives like `Unforgiven` and `Old Man Logan,` treating all previous Splinter Cell games as Sam Fisher`s established history and canon. While the series incorporates flashbacks and slight narrative adjustments, the core aim is to preserve the franchise`s essence.
Kolstad emphasized the importance of creative freedom in adaptation, aiming to avoid excessive complexity. He praised Liev Schreiber`s portrayal of Sam, noting how the unsaid dialogue powerfully drives the character and plot. The series naturally picks up with Sam Fisher in retirement on a remote farm, a veteran surprised to still be alive, who is forced back into action when conflict finds him.
Liev Schreiber as Sam Fisher
While expressing deep admiration for Michael Ironside, particularly his iconic `Starship Troopers` scene and their collaboration on `Nobody,` Kolstad highlighted Liev Schreiber`s unique contribution to Sam Fisher. Schreiber brings a sense of `stability` to the character, portraying a seasoned operative who, despite his vast experience, remains open to learning. This Sam processes information rapidly, makes swift decisions, and operates with a strong moral compass.
Kolstad drew parallels between Sam Fisher and characters like John Wick, `Nobody`s` Hutch, Rambo, and John McClane. He notes that these characters aren`t necessarily `the best` but are defined by their resilience, determination, and a surprising capacity for empathy, qualities he appreciates in Schreiber`s performance.
Embracing the Challenge of Animation
Despite having no prior experience with animated series, Kolstad felt no hesitation tackling Splinter Cell. The allure of the Tom Clancy universe, combined with the franchise`s legacy, fueled his excitement. He described the project as an exhilarating challenge, akin to intentionally cornering oneself to discover innovative solutions.
Introducing McKenna: Sam`s Protégé
Kolstad introduced McKenna, a new character designed to reflect a younger Sam Fisher at a pivotal crossroads. Sam acts as her guide, not dictating her path but offering mentorship. He emphasizes that Sam`s interactions, whether encouraging or stern, are always geared towards her survival. McKenna, though skilled, is also driven by her emotions.
Sam advises McKenna to acknowledge her emotions rather than suppress them, stating, “Emotions will always come into play, but you have to coordinate.” He warns her against letting emotions jeopardize missions, especially his own life. Their dynamic evolves into an uncle-niece relationship, with McKenna observing and learning from Sam, sometimes following his lead and sometimes forging her own path, reflecting human nature.
Kolstad expressed enthusiasm for McKenna`s potential future in the franchise, jokingly implying a long wait, perhaps another 11 years, until a new game or her return.
Reflecting on the John Wick Legacy
Regarding his connection to the John Wick franchise, Kolstad recounted Keanu Reeves asking him how many films he envisioned for the series, to which Kolstad replied `seven,` acknowledging the story evolved differently after the third installment. While describing his departure as `stepping away` politely, he expressed immense pride and affection for the team, including Chad Stahelski, Keanu Reeves, and Dave Leitch. He cherishes seeing people watch John Wick on planes and the poignant memories associated with actors like Lance Reddick. Kolstad views the franchise as something larger than himself, always advocating for its success, especially since it bears his grandfather`s name.
Kolstad admitted his creative struggle emerged as the John Wick films grew in scale. He personally favors `intimate action` inspired by martial arts films like Ip Man and Jet Li movies. In contrast, he admired Chad Stahelski`s mastery in choreographing grander sequences, drawing from influences like Buster Keaton for `John Wick 4`s` stairwell scene or 2D video games for its memorable shotgun sequence. Kolstad noted his own style leans more towards John McClane-esque confined action, as seen with `Nobody`s` Hutch. Despite creative differences in scale, he remains elated by John Wick`s enduring success, considering it a childhood dream fulfilled.