Anna Kendrick’s Dana Cummings didn’t return in The Accountant 2, but the sequel proves why she is necessary for The Accountant 3. A significant part of the original 2016 movie centered on Christian Wolff (Ben Affleck) protecting Dana from harm after she played a crucial role in unraveling a conspiracy. Their blossoming relationship became the heart of the film in many ways, which is why it was surprising when it was confirmed that Anna Kendrick is not in The Accountant 2.

Not only does this sequel not include Dana, but there is absolutely no direct reference to her. On one hand, that could make sense given how The Accountant ended. Dana is safe and is gifted expensive paintings by Chris, and they go on their separate journeys. There was hope their paths would cross again in the sequel, but that didn’t happen as the film turned its focus toward Chris’ relationship with his brother Braxton (Jon Bernthal). Even without her presence, The Accountant 2 still shows why Kendrick’s character needs to come back in the next installment.

Chris’ Story In The Accountant 2 Is Secretly Connected To Anna Kendrick’s Dana

He’s Searching For What They Had

Connection is a major throughline of The Accountant 2. Chris is actively searching for a relationship in many different ways throughout the film. This includes an early instance when he surprisingly participates in speed dating. While Chris’ intentions are good, the results are not, as most of the women become disinterested after talking to him and hearing his tax stories. Chris does find connections elsewhere through strengthening his brotherly bond with Braxton, while the closest romantic connection comes through meeting Angie during Ben Affleck’s line dancing scene.

By the time that The Accountant 2‘s ending wraps up, Christian is in a better spot with Braxton, but he’s not fulfilled. He still wants someone who will check in on him and cares about him in a different capacity. He’s seeking romance and love. It’s no coincidence in my mind that this is a feeling he’s searching for after meeting Dana. They had the beginnings of a strong connection, but time and Chris’ hesitancy did not permit it to flourish. Now that Affleck’s character is looking for what Dana can offer him, she becomes a must for The Accountant 3.

Anna Kendrick’s Return For The Accountant 3 Has Already Been Teased

She’s On Board To Return

The good news is that Anna Kendrick’s return for The Accountant 3 is already in the works. Director Gavin O’Connor previously teased, “Don’t be surprised if Dana, Anna [Kendrick] shows up in the third film.” This came after confirming the intentional decision to leave Christian looking for love by The Accountant 2‘s conclusion. Building on that aspect of Affleck’s character is something O’Connor desperately wants to do in the third film.

Thankfully, Kendrick is seemingly on board to do make her franchise return after nearly a decade. While speaking to Variety, O’Connor confirmed that he and Kendrick have already been texting about what the future could hold. The actress is “a hundred percent in if we want” according to the franchise director. Considering how hehas already teased Dana’s potential as a pivotal figure in the continuation of Christian’s arc, it would be a surprise at this point if she does not return in The Accountant 3, ᴀssuming a third film is made.

Anna Kendrick Will Work Better With The Franchise After The Accountant 2’s More Comedic Approach

Dana Was Already A Comedic Presence

Anna Kendrick coming back for The Accountant 3 instead of The Accountant 2 could work in the franchise’s favor. The second film already had a specific story to tell, and there was no good way to really get Dana involved. By embracing the dynamic between Christian and Braxton, The Accountant 2 became more of a comedy than the first film. That can help The Accountant 3 lean further into Kendrick’s strengths. She’s capable of doing good dramatic work, but her most memorable performances often lean into her comedic abilities.

The Accountant had trouble fully making Anna Kendrick’s comedic talents work at times. The first film is a lot more serious, with Kendrick acting as one of the only humorous elements. That sometimes created a clash in genre. If The Accountant 3 embraces the comedic genre in a similar vein as The Accountant 2 did, then that will not be a problem. Anna Kendrick’s return could even make the next film funnier, perhaps allowing the threequel to lean more into comedy than action, with a hint of romance this time.

Source: Variety