The Best CBM to Never Happen: Justice League '82 Fan Casting

The Best CBM to Never Happen: Justice League '82 Fan Casting

Imagine where the DCCU would be by now if WB/DC had the foresight to do this, instead of Superman 3.

By Enphlieuwince - Dec 31, 2013 05:12 PM EST
Filed Under: Fan Fic
Source: Wikipedia
With 2014 rapidly approaching, most of us here at ComicBookMovie.com are breathing sighs of relief to be moving on to the next potentially bar-raising installment of the genre.

This year has been the most controversial in terms of assessing which films were worth the time it took to watch or the money they took in. Regardless of what side of the fence you're standing on, you'd probably agree that they all had room for improvements; just to different degrees.

The truest test is observing how each movie will be remembered throughout history.

So, I thought I'd use this time to take a deeper look into the rearview, and, reminisce on what was and what could have been long before 2013.



The year is 1982, and, much like any other year, the stage is set for new beginnings.

The Commodore 64 home computer is released in Las Vegas, Cal Ripken Jr. plays the first of his record-breaking streak of Major League Baseball games, West Germany is beaten by Italy, 3 – 1, for the 1982 FIFA World Cup in Spain, the EPCOT Center becomes the second largest theme park to be opened to the public, Scott Fahlman posts the first ever emoticons, "Thriller" becomes the highest sold album of all time, and, Christopher Reeve is now a household name.

What if Warner Bros. had the foresight to capitalize on his popularity by introducing the general audience to more of the DC roster in form of the ever elusive Justice League film?

This is my fan casting for Justice League, 1982. I have been doing my research and racking my brain for the perfect cast, and, I am proud to present you with my vision for the best CBM team up to never happen.

Director : George Miller (Mad Max)
Producer : Michael Deeley (Blade Runner)
Release Date : August 04, 1982

Superman/Kal El/Clark Kent - Christopher Reeve
Age : 30
Height : 6'04" (1.93 m)


If it ain't broke, don't fix it, right?

The Broadway actor and all-around athlete soundly won the role of Superman, but, only after a very rocky start. It was said that his picture and resumé were discarded at least 3 times from the stackful of hopefuls before he was granted an audition.

Upon recieving the role, the New York City native showed his determination by refusing to wear a padded "muscle suit" in his portrayal of the DC Comics poster child. Instead, he began a high protein diet and intense workout regimen with former British weightlifting champion, David Prowse.

Super Fact : DC approved the producer's choices of Muhammad Ali, Al Pacino, James Caan, Steve McQueen, Clint Eastwood and Dustin Hoffman for the role of Superman.


Batman/Bruce Wayne - Tom Selleck
Age : 37
Height : 6'04" (1.92 m)


Cool car? Check. Detective skills? Check. Credible machismo? Check. Playboy charm? Check.

Thomas William “Tom” Selleck is best known for his starring role in "Magnum, P.I." television series from 1980 - 1988. He played a swaggering private investigator by the name of Thomas Magnum, with his business being based in Hawaii.

Tom Selleck brings the perfect blend of cool charisma and brute intimidation needed to bring Bruce Wayne to life. Also, without his trademarked "stache," he very much resembles the character.

Bat Bonus : Tom Selleck participated in one of television's first shared universes. As a top rated show, episodes of "Magnum, P.I." sometimes alluded to the existence of the special police force "Hawaii Five-O." There were even crossover episodes with "Simon & Simon" and "Murder, She Wrote."


Flash/Barry Allen - Tom Hanks
Age : 26
Height : 6'0" (1.83 m)


Even before undeniable hits like "Big," Tom Hanks was out there making a name for himself. As a college dropout, he was still winning accolades for off off Broadway roles in the Cleveland area. He could retire right now and still go down in history as one of the greatest actors ever. Though most would assume he is too big for CBMs now, he recently expressed interest in being approached for a role.

Mr. Hanks brings a passion to his acting that makes everything he touches into gold. Even though, at this point, he would not have done the famous roles that led me to choosing him, it would have been magical to see him debut some of his most iconic character traits via Barry Allen on the big screen.

Also, with the surprise cancellation of his sitcom, "Bossom Buddies," I'm guessing he would have appreciated the work.


Martian Manhunter/J'onn J'onzz/John Jones - Sidney Poitier
Age : 55
Height : 6'02" (1.89 m)


Looking at his age, one might have some reservations about this casting. But, to really put things into perspective, Samuel L. Jackson has just completed his fourth outing as Nick Fury, with more to come, and he has just recently turned 65.

Besides that, who turns down an Academy Award winner? At this point, Mr. Poitier was a proven veteran in his art, and, his presence alone could bring an air of sophistication that could elevate the entire production.


Aquaman/Orin/Arthur Curry - Dolph Lundgren
Age : 25
Height : 6'05" (1.96 m)


The King of the Sea should appear regal in stature, and, Dolph has that look in spades. His chiseled physique very much suits someone who is constantly swimming. The deep, grizzle of his voice would command the respect of his subjects and the fear of his enemies.

Dolph is still very much unknown at this point. This would have been his first major role in a Hollywood movie.

Honorable Mention(s) : Rutger Hauer, Pierce Brosnan


Wonder Woman/Princess Diana/Diana Prince - Joan Severance
Age : 24
Height : 5'09" (1.75 m)


Joan Severance is hardly the most experienced of actors on the list, but, she has definitely shown potential during her intermittent acting career. This former model, recieved critical acclaim playing alongside Kevin Spacey in the TV series "Wiseguy."

Some of you may have wanted Lynda Carter to reprise her role, but, I felt like Joan looked more like Wonder Woman of Themyscira.


Green Lantern/Hal Jordan - Kurt Russell
Age : 31
Height : 5'11" (1.80 m)


Snake "Mother[frick]ing" Plissken, anyone? Give the man a power ring already!

Snake... I mean Kurt is the star of cult classics such as "Escape from New York," "Escape from L.A.," "Big Trouble in Little China," and, "The Thing."

Kurt Russell would later play a US Air Force Special Operations airmen, Colonel Jack O'Neil, in the sci-fi film, "Stargate."


Lex Luthor - Christopher Walken
Age : 39
Height : 6'0" (1.83 m)


As if that picture is not convincing enough alone, I present to you with "The King of Metropolis."


The Joker - Jack Nicholson
Age : 45
Height : 5'10" (1.77 m)


We get the same insane clown - just younger and more streamline. I couldn't pass on that.

There were elements that Nicholson and Burton brought to this character that are perfect.

Honorable Mention(s) : Brad Dourif



Special thanks to "If Now Were Then...Avengers, 1976" for the inspiration.
http://www.comicbookbrainsplatter.com/2013/12/brain-splatter-if-now-were-thenthe.html?m=1

It's all in good fun, and, I truly hope you enjoyed my vision. Sound off in the usual place...
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FlixMentallo21
FlixMentallo21 - 12/31/2013, 6:17 PM
Buddy, this is great! And to have it come out on my birthday (though I was born in 1991) is even better, wow! You really did your homework on this one. I only want to know--why Walken as Luthor instead of Gene Hackman, if you were reusing Reeve? And other than Luthor and the Joker, did you have a really big bad in mind as the main villain of the film?

When you have a moment, check out my latest fancast: "X-Men: Days of Future Past"--the Animated Movie.
http://www.comicbookmovie.com/fan_fic/news/?a=92147
GL
GL - 12/31/2013, 6:31 PM
This is awesome. Great fancast.
EpitomeofAwesome
EpitomeofAwesome - 12/31/2013, 6:54 PM
Duuuuuuuuude, I wish this had happened!
Enphlieuwince
Enphlieuwince - 12/31/2013, 6:55 PM
Thanks a lot, guys!

@FlixMentallo21 - 12/31/2013

"I only want to know--why Walken as Luthor instead of Gene Hackman, if you were reusing Reeve?"

Great question. For me, as great of an actor as GH is, his role was designed to be campy. I never liked that bumbling iteration of Lex.

So, that's why I thought I'd go with pre-Batman Returns Walken. He still had that sinister performance to give like "King of New York." I think with he would have been great.

"And other than Luthor and the Joker, did you have a really big bad in mind as the main villain of the film?"

I did. I realize, they'd need a bigger threat, but, I couldn't decide who would be best. I guess, assuming it's a one shot deal, we can't go wrong with Darkseid. I would love to see Brainiac at some point too...
Enphlieuwince
Enphlieuwince - 12/31/2013, 6:57 PM
I think he would*...

@Epitome, thanks a lot! It's my first article, so, I'm glad you guys enjoyed it.
Enphlieuwince
Enphlieuwince - 12/31/2013, 8:51 PM
@fangz, thanks. It's my first one too. Can't wait to see what you come up with when you get around to it.

@Anno, thanks again!
Enphlieuwince
Enphlieuwince - 12/31/2013, 8:57 PM
@Batmaniac, damn right! Lol... And thanks for the Batman pic; I lifted it from one of your posts a few weeks ago...
ILoveStargirl
ILoveStargirl - 12/31/2013, 8:59 PM
WOW! Double WOW!! Triple WOW!!! Quadruple WOW!!!!


Albeit, a little short on the villain roster. Why you stop after incluiding Luthor and the Joker? The sky is the limit. You can update this fancast to make the Legion of Doom.
Enphlieuwince
Enphlieuwince - 12/31/2013, 9:03 PM
@ILoveStargirl, thank you much. I should have added more villains, but, it's my first article and I didn't know if it would even be seen. But, now that I know how this works, I will definitely keep that feedback...
ILoveStargirl
ILoveStargirl - 12/31/2013, 9:05 PM
Since you described Luthor as the "King of Metropolis", every king needs to build an army.
Enphlieuwince
Enphlieuwince - 12/31/2013, 9:09 PM
@ILoveStargirl, that will be my next project.
ILoveStargirl
ILoveStargirl - 12/31/2013, 9:13 PM
Good project!
OneAboveAll
OneAboveAll - 12/31/2013, 9:14 PM
@Enphlieuwince - Excellent article!
Very well thought out! A lot of fun to read! Agreed 100% all the way.
Enphlieuwince
Enphlieuwince - 12/31/2013, 9:19 PM
@OneAboveAll, I appreciate it!
SwagInScience
SwagInScience - 12/31/2013, 9:38 PM
Bro this is awesome. Happy Fricken New Year!
ds9epicfan
ds9epicfan - 12/31/2013, 9:42 PM
Tom Selleck as Batman!
Kurt Russell as Green Lantern!
Christopher Walken as Lex Luthor!
Dude,that casting blew my mind away!!
Good job!Enphlieuwince!
THEDARKKNIGHT1939
THEDARKKNIGHT1939 - 12/31/2013, 9:42 PM
Why not Keaton as Batman. Seeing him and Reeve on the big screen together would have been so mind blowing.
JoeMomma29
JoeMomma29 - 12/31/2013, 9:43 PM
Couldof, Wouldof, Shouldof!!!!! Congrats to Marvel Studios for having the balls to pull the trigger and take a chance.

Hopefully DC/WB has learned their lesson, oh wait they have not. What I can tell is the shareholders have learned their lesson and they pushing WB to make this happen due to the success of Marvel/Disney!!!!!!
Enphlieuwince
Enphlieuwince - 12/31/2013, 9:46 PM
@Omega, thanks man! Lol.. I got the Godson seal of approval too? I'm straight...

@lordsinestro, thank you very much. Happy New Year!
THEDARKKNIGHT1939
THEDARKKNIGHT1939 - 12/31/2013, 9:51 PM
crashrendar

You're kidding right?
Space
Space - 12/31/2013, 9:52 PM
Holy shit! nice casting!
revloveR
revloveR - 12/31/2013, 9:54 PM
mariel hemingway or sigourney weaver would have been my wondy.
Enphlieuwince
Enphlieuwince - 12/31/2013, 9:54 PM
@ALmight & @ds9epicfan

Thanks a lot guys!!!

@THEDARKKNIGHT1939

Keaton was awesome as Batman, but, I think Selleck would/could have been to Batman what Reeve was to Supes. Besides, this entire cast is tall - it just kinda happened that way amd they would tower over him.

When I look at Selleck, I felt like he could have owned the role.
Supes17
Supes17 - 12/31/2013, 9:57 PM
I've always liked christopher walken. The dude looks evil as [frick]
watcher
watcher - 12/31/2013, 9:57 PM
I would have gone with Connie Sellecca or Kelly Lebrock for Wonder Woman.
Enphlieuwince
Enphlieuwince - 12/31/2013, 9:58 PM
@BlackJack10, @SpaceDandy

Thanks for the feedback! Happy New Year!
THEDARKKNIGHT1939
THEDARKKNIGHT1939 - 12/31/2013, 9:58 PM
Enphlieuwince
No doubts on Selleck. Was just wondering, Great list!
Quexul
Quexul - 12/31/2013, 10:00 PM
@BlackJack10 Harrison Ford = Hal Jordan
revloveR
revloveR - 12/31/2013, 10:01 PM
i made one of these over at shh a while ago, but it was a little different.

gregory peck as bruce wayne
rock hudson as superman
katherine hepburn as diana prince
paul newman as barry allen
burt lancaster as hal jordan
steve mcqueen as arthur curry
james earl jones as j'onn j'onzz
clint eastwood as oliver queen
sidney potier as john stewart
and
marlon brando as vandal savage.

TheRationalNerd
TheRationalNerd - 12/31/2013, 10:02 PM
I was sold on Tom Hanks as Flash! lol Great Job!!
SnapperCarr
SnapperCarr - 12/31/2013, 10:06 PM
Awesome fancast!
Enphlieuwince
Enphlieuwince - 12/31/2013, 10:09 PM
@TheBlackNerd, lol. Glad you approve, Sir.

@revloveR, nice list. Thanks for posting!

@TheWatcher, I loke that Connie Sellecca suggestion. Thanks for posting!

@Supes17, my thoughts exactly. I enjoyed Walken's early work. He has that look, like you pointed out. Thanks for posting and Happy New Year!
THEDARKKNIGHT1939
THEDARKKNIGHT1939 - 12/31/2013, 10:09 PM
crashrendar

You really don't know who Christopher Reeve is?
ILoveStargirl
ILoveStargirl - 12/31/2013, 10:09 PM
Kelly LeBrock, huh? Good choice for a Wonder Woman runner-up. Excellent choice for Cheetah (Priscilla Rich).
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