While five actors were tested reportedly weeks ago, the shortlist for the lead in Marvel Studios’ James Gunn-directed Guardians of the Galaxy movie has narrowed down to just two, or perhaps three. Hollywood trade paper Variety now reports that English Cloud Atlas actor Jim Sturgess and Chuck star Zachary Levi are front-runners for the Guardians leader Peter Quill AKA Star-Lord.
Zachary Levi, 32, was not included on the previous shortlist, unlike Jim Sturgess, 31. And despite already having a role in Marvel’s shared universe, per Thor: The Dark World as Fandral the Dashing, sources of Variety claim Marvel is impressed with his Star-Lord test and “open to continuing their relationship.” The source also reports that even though Levi & Sturgess are indeed front-runners, an “unnamed third actor may be tested after the holidays.” What do you think?
Marvel Studios presents “Guardians of the Galaxy”—the big cinematic event exploring an interstellar super hero team-up, featuring Marvel characters Star-Lord, Drax the Destroyer, Gamora, Groot and Rocket Raccoon. While story details are under wraps, the film is rumored to lead with a U.S. pilot who ends up in space in the middle of a universal conflict and goes on the run with futuristic ex-cons who have something everyone wants.
Directed by James Gunn from a screenplay by James Gunn, “Guardians of the Galaxy” is based on the Marvel comic book series “Guardians of the Galaxy,” first published in 1969 and revived in 2008. While a director and ensemble cast have yet to be announced, “Guardians of the Galaxy” will assemble on August 1, 2014. Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures will distribute the film. In addition to “Guardians of the Galaxy”, Marvel Studios will release a slate of films based on other iconic Marvel characters including “Iron Man 3” on May 3, 2013; “Thor: The Dark World ” on November 8, 2013; “Captain America: The Winter Soldier” on April 4, 2014; and the currently-untitled sequel to “Marvel's The Avengers,” the third highest grossing film of all time, on May 1, 2015.