So now that Austin Powers 3 has severed Goldmember from its title–thanks to some legal wrangling with the trademark-conscious producers of the James Bond franchise–just what will the film be called?
I recently ran into Tom “Tiny” Lister Jr, the gargantuan ex-NBA player/ex-WWF wrestler/ex-WCW star who has a top-secret role in the much-anticipated spy spoof sequel. (You’ve seen Tiny’s incredible bulk in films like Little Nicky, The Players Club, Jackie Brown, The Fifth Element and Barb Wire.)
Looming ominously over me, Tiny told about working on the film before we got to the burning question. “It’s awesome,” said the 6’7″ actor enthusiastically. “It’s awesome to work on the best project you know is coming, or one of the best…Mike Myers and Verne [Troyer] are awesome people.”
OK. I was sensing an awesome theme. When I asked Tiny about his mystery role, he got a lot more tight-lipped. “Can’t tell you,” he said, shaking his head. “You have to go see it.” I wasn’t about to press the issue, but looking at Tiny’s massive frame and totally bald head, I couldn’t help but think…Maxi-Me?
What we do know is that Myers is returning to the shagadelic role of secret agent Austin Danger Powers (as well as Dr. Evil, Fat Bastard and the once-titular Goldmember). This time the spy who loves him is a sexy 1970s superfly girl named Foxy Cleopatra, played by Destiny’s Child singer Beyonce Knowles in her feature film debut (like original Powers paramour Elizabeth Hurley, Heather Graham will cameo to see Felicity Shagwell off). Also inked is Michael Caine as a major figure from Austin’s past. Seth Green, Michael York and Verne Troyer will reprise their roles from the original two films, and you can expect to see youthful versions of Austin, Dr. Evil, Number 2 and Basil Exposition.
And–SPOILER ALERT–you can expect comedic cameo appearances from the likes of Danny DeVito, Gwyneth Paltrow, Kevin Spacey, Quincy Jones, Fred Savage and–yeah, baby, yeah!–Britney Spears. Plus a certain actor who’s frequently essayed another MAJOR movie spy may also make a pivotal appearence.
So, I finally worked up the nerve to ask Tiny: What’s the new title?
Finally ready to give with some secrets, the intimidating Tiny leaned in conspiratorially: “This is the new title,” he said, hushed, followed by a dramatic pause. “Austin Powers 3.”
