As all (or at least most) of you know, Marvel has recently gotten the rights back to Punisher and Blade. While Punisher and Blade may not bring in the money that IM, Cap or Thor has, you can bet that Marvel Studios will still put out the movies. The question is, will they recast the two lead roles and with who?
Just like Marvel did with Hulk, I imagine they will recast because they want to get away from the previous versions of the film even though both Blade and Punisher were far superior films than Ang Lee’s Hulk.
The only thing I didn’t like about Punisher was that it took place in Tampa, Florida versus’ being in NYC where it should have been. Frank Castle needs to be cast as an older, been through some stuff kind of actor. I know I am going to get a lot of slack about making this recommendation but what about Jon Hamm from “Mad Men” and “The Town” fame. Older guy with a strong physical presence who knows how to use a gun as evidenced in “The Town”.
As for casting Blade, it is hard to top what Wesley Snipes did. I think he played the part perfectly and have trouble coming up with a suitable replacement. I wouldn’t be against Snipes playing the part again but I also think that he is starting to get a little old and also because he is in jail right now. If I had to pick someone then I would probably go with Michael Jai White. He is a certified Bad-A$$ and can play the dark side of Blade as seen in Spawn.
Some others that came to mind;
Punisher- Adam Baldwin (Firefly/Chuck), David Boreanaz (Angel/Bones)
Blade- Old Spice Guy (if he doesn’t do Luke Cage), Tyrese Gibson (Transformers)
Other ideas for casting are more than welcome.