The casting so far for Zack Snyder's 'Man of Steel'

The casting so far for Zack Snyder's 'Man of Steel'

Follow the jump to see my thoughts on the casting thus far...

Editorial Opinion
By LP4 - Jun 27, 2011 11:06 PM EST
Filed Under: Superman

So far, I've got to say, I am in LOVE with the casting decisions made thus far by director Zack Snyder for the upcoming Superman reboot. All the roles seem to be filled with A-list celebrities, academy-award winners and just all-around good 90's veteran stars. I mean so far we've got- Henry Cavill, Amy Adams, Diane Lane, Kevin Costner, Michael Shannon, Russel Crowe and rumored still are Julia Ormond for the role of Lara and Antje Traue for the role of Faora. This is the type of cast that just leaves me in pure astonishment at the amount of pure and utter TALENT in one film alone. Not only that but also for a film for my most favorite superhero of all-time SUPERMAN.

Now, I believe it was around the time that the role of Jor-El was finally filled, a report stated that Jor-El was one of the final roles to be filled.

This leads me to wonder...what is Zack Snyder planning to do about Lex Luthor, Jimmy Olsen and Perry White?

These three characters are essential cornerstones to the Superman mythology. They've been a solid part of his history and removing them would only alienate fans who've grown up to love those characters as I'm sure many here on CBM would feel.



However you might feel about Lex Luthor...I think it can be agreed upon that he has YET to have a proper nor decent live-action portrayal in any of the Superman films thus far. So some might argue- "We've seen him too many times! Give him a rest already!" well yes and no. Yes we have seen him in many films but technically we never saw the REAL Lex Luthor in any of the films. In the Donner films he was a hack, hokey-jokey real-estate scammer and nothing more. In Superman Returns he was just a gold-digger- (slept with some old lady for her fortune) none of that is Lex Luthor. He is capable of sooo much more but the films never bothered to explore his character the way the comics and cartoons had.

I'm not saying they need to make Lex a major role in the film but he should rightfully have a part to play nonetheless. Give him a cameo...SOMETHING.

The only time Snyder has been asked about Luthor was in this little question-answer segment-

"Will this Superman be Luthor-Less?"

And Snyder's response?

Zack Snyder: "I can’t answer that [laughs]."

Now I don't know what this means...I don't know WHY he laughed about the Lex question but as our friend "GODDAMNSUPERGUY" has stated in the past- Snyder has been trained in Nolan-speak.

Here's to hoping...




Now on to Jimmy Olsen.

I think we can all agree a Superman film just isn't complete without that lovable little dork Jimmy. He represents the ULTIMATE fanboy. Constantly there to snap photos of Superman, constantly there with his quirky quips and most of all he's a character that really deserves some movie-love. He was great in the Donner films played excellently by Marc McClure. But in Superman Returns he seemed somewhat lifeless...the happy/enthusiastic/childish Jimmy we once knew was gone. Here's to hoping we'll at least catch a glimpse of our favorite little 'ginger' ;D



Perry White...what can I say. As was the case with Jimmy, I don't feel a Superman film is complete without the gruff Editor in Chief of the Daily Planet. Of the 3 characters I've dedicated this editorial to, I believe Perry White has the best chance of being in this film...mainly because I'm about 90% certain there will have to be a Daily Planet in this film what with Lois being in it and all and so regardless we'll definitely be seeing Perry White make his appearance. But with lack of news on his casting...it is causing me to worry a bit. If Perry is not added to the film...my first remark will be- GREAT CAESAR'S GHOST! Then I'll move on with my life ;D



This editorial and everything I've written is of course...premature. Filming isn't expected to begin until sometime in August. We've still got another whole month of casting up ahead. These are definitely 3 characters I would LOVE to see reinterpreted in the new film...but if they for some reason don't make the cut then I'll of course still support this movie as this has always been since its announcement...my #1 CBM of all-time. I know this will be the Superman film to end all Superman films. Snyder WON'T let us down!

But in the scenario that these 3 are not put into the film...what kind of film universe is Snyder thinking of making? What kind of world will this new Superman exist in? We haven't heard much on the Daily Planet or LexCorp fronts...there was a rumor a while back about the skyline of some cities being used for those two buildings but it was never actually confirmed. So in the event we don't get a Daily Planet or LexCorp...just what kind of Superman mythos can we expect to see in this new film?



Post your thoughts below! =D
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Knightstalker
Knightstalker - 6/28/2011, 5:55 AM
Perhaps the events in this movie are occurring before Clark Kent moves to Metropolis. Maybe the whole "Daily Planet hires Clark Kent" thing doesn't happen until the very end of the movie, like in an after-credit scene.
Trapdinsteel
Trapdinsteel - 6/28/2011, 6:44 AM
@LP4 - Nice article, a lot of good questions that I have been wondering about as well. Since we haven't heard anything about Lex, Perry, and Jimmy perhaps as Knightstalker mentioned, this is the whole Birthright route where there is a lot going on across the globe and not centered in Metropolis.

I have a theory, well at least what I would do with updating the Clark/Lois relationship that fits in without having Metropolis or anyone else involved. But I shall explain this theory in further detail in a CBM editorial over the next few days :)

ManofSteel23
ManofSteel23 - 6/28/2011, 6:46 AM
I hope he doesnt do what they did with green lantern,make the first film shitty to follow up to a better sequel,dont forget he said hes treating it as if the reeve films nvr existed,so thats probably why hes recreating the origins or jor-el and lara,as for the other characters,im sure he will go to metropolis and see jimmy and perry,you seem to forget lois lane is in this,and she will probably be working in the daily planet,now if they have the daily planet they must have jimmy and perry right?
LP4
LP4 - 6/28/2011, 7:52 AM
@Neph- Dude why?

I'd say Lex is a bit more interesting than Perry and Jimmy especially when he is done RIGHT. Problem is- for the past 20 years on film all the way up till 2006, he's been BUTCHERED on film. Can't blame the character, blame the lame ass directors who butchered him.

Especially Bryan Singer. By 2006 the guy had sooooo much source material to work with, but still he chose to imitate the lame Donner/Hackman version of Lex which was by far the WORST interpretation of Lex Luthor in any live action form.

I just don't get why people are so dead-set against Lex at least making a small cameo but they're more than happy to have Jimmy and Perry. Y'know Jimmy and Perry have been in more Superman films than Lex right? (Superman III at least)

Just saying.

Lex can be awesome...IF he's done correctly and IF he's with the right director.
TheLight
TheLight - 6/28/2011, 7:59 AM
Lex can serve as a shadow to the movie. He doesn't have to be necessary to make the film great. His presence can be felt. At least showcasing Lexcorp, or one of his business cards. We all know he likes to watch and study his enemies before making them aware of his existence. With Jimmy, give him his damn red hair! And please make him closer to that of the average 21st century teen working at a newspaper industry. We don't need to see him wearing more bowties. I always saw Martin Sheen as a good canidate for Perry White. But now that's pretty much dead, so we need someone who not only looks like the Chief, but can be determined to want to make the Daily Planet the best news to read.
LP4
LP4 - 6/28/2011, 8:07 AM
@TheLight-

Dan Lauria is our Chief ;D

I loved the Wonder Years as a kid and this guy always fit the bill for me ;D

He looks and sounds just like how Perry White should



As for Jimmy actually needing to be a red-head with freckles in this film, I totally agree with you.
6of13
6of13 - 6/28/2011, 8:14 AM
I agree. Also, IF Lex is included in the film it does not imply that he would be a villain at all...just a character in the story even if it is a cameo.

LP4@: I imagined Lauria as Dan Turpin.
LP4
LP4 - 6/28/2011, 8:17 AM
@6of13- Hahahaha that's also a really good idea, he looks just like Turpin from STAS!

He looks like he could be either but yeah I agree with ya there on the Turpin front. Plus they both have the same first name LOL
TheLight
TheLight - 6/28/2011, 8:25 AM
@LP4

Dude, I completely forgot about Dan Lauria! He would be a good Perry. And I could also see him as Turpin too. Spot on!
LP4
LP4 - 6/28/2011, 8:30 AM
@TheLight- I also noticed Dan Lauria somewhat resembles Lane Smith who played Perry White in the Lois and Clark television series-

God rest his soul...




6of13
6of13 - 6/28/2011, 8:43 AM
Only the casting of the major parts has been announced so perhaps
it is still possible that Lex, Perry etc will play minor parts.

I know that Zod and Faora have been mentioned but so far there
is very little information to precisely indicate what their exact
roles are in the movie.

It just seems there is more speculation than fact. That's why I
think Brainiac could still be included - perhaps he is responsible
for destroying Krypton.

I was just wandering since Faora is in the movie why it is assumed that
her role occurs on Earth.
Maybe her part is on Krypton only?
I had the idea that Zod (and Faora) defend Krypton when Brainiac attacks.
LP4
LP4 - 6/28/2011, 8:49 AM
@6of13- Yep that's what i was thinking too before...that they are seen in a more heroic light against Brainiac in the intro of the film.

But Snyder made it sound like Zod would be the main threat in the film...so i don't know...
6of13
6of13 - 6/28/2011, 8:57 AM
LP4: I was thinking the same thing. It could occur in the intro or perhaps Zod is initially
Superman's friend and tells him of Krypton (through flashback sequence).

I think Zod could possibly be like a mentor to Superman and even teaches him military martial arts/fighting skills.
But Zod wants to make Earth more utilitarian (somewhat like a New Krypton) and Superman
says humans should have free will and all this leads to a fight.
In the final act of the movie Brainiac presence becomes a threat to the Earth.
6of13
6of13 - 6/28/2011, 9:00 AM
Superguy@ That is not a bad idea about the weapons.
I think Lex should be like a Nucky Thompson-like figure from Boardwalk Empire.
TheLight
TheLight - 6/28/2011, 9:01 AM
@LP4

Again, good spot man. They have the look of the Chief in my book.

@6of13

Maybe Lex pay appear at the end, with minor details of his agenda in place. I like the idea of Faora's probably being more of Kryton's past. Because whatever may happen to her may open the door to Ursa. What if they're made sisters or some kind of relation. That would explain their similarities.
6of13
6of13 - 6/28/2011, 9:10 AM
@TheLight
That idea can explain the motivations behind the Faora's actions.

I kind of imagine if Zod was going to be "Nolanized"
that he would be more patriotic than self-serving.
Hellsing
Hellsing - 6/28/2011, 9:18 AM
Hey I aint a fan of Hackmans portryal of Lex Luthor but I don't think you know that Lex Luthor back in the 70's was exactly how he was portrayed in goofy mad scientist manner the genius buisnessman didn't happen till the mid 80's when the character got revamped so just bashing on it because they didn't portray the lex luthor every one is familiar with now offence is stupid. Anyways decent article.

Lex Luthor should be in the movie no one saying he has to be the villain a side character and build up as villain in sequels.
LP4
LP4 - 6/28/2011, 10:05 AM
@Hellsing- Yes I know Lex was like that back in the day, constantly in/out of prison, constantly a comedic foil for Superman.

It still doesn't make my point any the less valid- Gene Hackman's Lex was SHIT.

@6of13- Dude you have seriously NICE ideas, I like your characterization of Zod as trying to be a friend to Superman and it's just their motivations are different and their dreams/aspirations diverge from one another.

@Superguy- No problem bro ;D Anytime.
golden123
golden123 - 6/28/2011, 10:56 AM
@LP4: Actually, the point you proved about Gene Hackman's Lex was that his potrayal is outdated. As for the main point of this article, all we can do now is wait and hope.
Hellsing
Hellsing - 6/28/2011, 11:17 AM
@LP4 agreed it is shit compared to now because its out dated and goofy and definitely wanna see a better take on Lex Luthor. The best Lex Luthor was in the superman animated series. and I am not sure if you've done on article on any particular origin stories you would like to see them use, or what bits they could use of different origins stories for superman like man of steel, birthright and secret origins. It would be pretty cool to see your opinion on that since you seem to be a big superman fan
LP4
LP4 - 6/28/2011, 12:11 PM
@Hellsing- Agreed dude, Clancy Brown was THE GREATEST LEX LUTHOR EVER (sorry Rosenbaum fans lol)

I will work on which Superman-origin I'd love to see in the new film.

Thanks for the idea! ;D
mastarockafella
mastarockafella - 6/28/2011, 12:28 PM
I agree with the article. Lex should be in the film if not a major role then at least give him justice in a minor role. I love the casting of Kevin Spacey as Lex because he is a very good actor. I just don't like the direction that Singer did to him. Anyway, I hope they include Lex in the film and do it right this time.
LP4
LP4 - 6/28/2011, 12:37 PM
@Splenda- Yeah...at least a mention of him would be sufficient. From the way the article on this site made it sound...they made it seem like he wouldn't even be mentioned...like he just doesn't exist at all in the Snyder/Nolan Superman universe. And that is total B.S

@mastarockafella- Yeah I agree with you, Lex has got to be in this damn film!!!
superfan714
superfan714 - 6/28/2011, 4:05 PM
@LP4-Great article man. I feel like we pretty much see eye to eye on all things Superman, as I also enjoy reading your posts on my articles.
LOVE the idea of Dan Lauria for Perry, he has the looks, voice and all-around embodiment of the character.
I agree that Lex needs to be at least mentioned or cameoed in this film. I really think he should be in it--but I'm in 110% agreement that the Donnerverse got him wrong. He's supposed to have a corporate gig and full of corrupt power.
Perhaps his role doesn't need to be so prominent in this film considering it could lean toward another Superman II copy...but who knows, if they do his character right it could work.
As far as Jimmy, they need to restore the type of charm that Marc Mclure brought to the table in '78. And for god's sake, YES give him his damn freckles and hair from the comics--I don't think that has been done in ANY live action adaptation! Interesting isn't it?
Kudos on the article again. Can't wait to see where this movie goes over the next few months, before and then into filming!
LP4
LP4 - 6/28/2011, 4:13 PM
@superfan714- Thank you my friend, I don't hear too many nice things on this site from others so it's refreshing to hear nice words =D

I think and hope this time we will get the Superman film we've waited for ;D
superman78
superman78 - 6/28/2011, 6:41 PM
@LP4 Great article. I mostly agree with you, but disagree on a few points. Here are my thoughts.

1. Lex Luthor- needs more than just a cameo. He is so pivotal to the entire story- AND he is pivotal to the Superman universe. He is a major player even if he is not interacting with Supes. A lot of people are saying, "look at The Dark Knight and save the best villain for later." I disagree. The Joker is a criminal and a bad-ass, no doubt, but Lex is so much more than a criminal: Influential business man, politician, scientist, evil genius, etc. I don't care if they don't even meet in the first film, but he needs to be there in more than just a cameo.

2. Jimmy Olsen- I agree with you 100%. I actually feel like he makes Clark/Supes more believable because he is soooo innocent. "Geesh" and "Golly" and "Swell" seem like swear words out of Clark's mouth compared to Jimmy's sweet and unknowing demeanor.

3. Perry White- Clark's boss. 'Nuff said. If he is not there, we can count on Jimmy not being there, and really Lois too, for that matter. He is the driving force behind the journalism aspect of the Clark Kent character. it would not be a "win" without him.

All in all, I think Snyder is holding out on us. I think they'll all be there in the end.
JM4Superman
JM4Superman - 6/28/2011, 7:11 PM
http://www.comicbookmovie.com/fansites/UltimateSuperman/news/?a=40571
LP4
LP4 - 6/29/2011, 12:52 AM
@superman78- I totally agree with you dude but if I start saying i want Lex to have a major role in the film, people will hang me by my loins! But i'm with you on the Lex-front 110% -_^

Plus Joker isn't a part of Batman's origin the way Lex IS indeed a part of Superman's origin. So it makes more sense to have Lex in a Superman origin film than it would for Joker to be in a Batman origin type film.

Haters are just always gonna hate.

Perry White and of course innocent Jimmy are a must. If they aint in there, then it aint a Superman flick. At least not a recognizable one.
ar8898
ar8898 - 6/29/2011, 2:30 AM
I can't wait for this movie, this is literally the one movie that I have been anticipating my entire life. I thought Superman Returns was going to be that movie until I watched it in theaters.

I just want to see one really good Superman movie in my lifetime, one with a good storyline and alot of action. With Zack Snyder and company making this movie, I have full faith that this will finally be the movie that fans like myself have patiently waited for.

I really hope that it does well in theaters because I would love to have a couple of sequels. If not, this may be the last Superman movie that we ever see on the silver screen.

Long live the Man of Steel!!!!

Photobucket
Wallymandius88
Wallymandius88 - 6/29/2011, 6:13 AM
See @LP4, this is a good article, I enjoyed the pics VERY much, and I agree with some of what you are saying here. I don't agree with all the casting, but Lex HAS to be done right, and needs a good role in the movie. Gene Hackman was too humorus and although I liked Kevin Spacey, it was just another real estate scam. That's what I don't want to see out of this movie. I want a futuristic Krypton being a big part of the movie, and that's one thing I think Snyder will do magnificently. I look forward to continuing to our ongoing conflict sir.

You be good and have a good day :)
LP4
LP4 - 6/29/2011, 9:43 AM
@ar8898- Yeah man, I totally agree!!! This is DEFINITELY the film we Supes-fans have needed in order to keep up with the other fan-bases, LOL.

Superman-Returns kept us waiting in the dust.

btw ar8898 I've got a gift for you buddy, I know you will like this picture ;D

Wallymandius88
Wallymandius88 - 6/29/2011, 10:53 AM
@LP4 - Have you seen Suckerpunch? That was an abomination that should have never been made and that got me really worried about this upcoming Superman movie. Now looking back, Snyder did the best with what he had to work with, and I think that's what Singer had to do with Returns. That didn't live up to a lot of expectations of a Superman movie, especially yours. But if Snyder has something awesome to work with to start, then I'll be on board completely. I'm still nervous about the suit and the accent. Which I guess we'll see the suit at SDCC. Cavill just needs to have a better American accent than Alan Rickman tried to do in a small part of Die Hard lol.

P.S. - Sorry I was a dick before. I should have taken your expression with a grain of salt instead of being an asshole. I apologize.

LP4
LP4 - 6/29/2011, 11:10 AM
@Wallymandius- I have yet to see Suckerpunch. My friends saw it in theaters and they said the story was weak but they loved the fantasy aspects of it.
Wallymandius88
Wallymandius88 - 6/29/2011, 11:25 AM
The story was awful, but the effects were even better than 300. I would recommend not wasting your time, but if you do see it, just pay attention to the CG and special effects lol. It was so bad. It got worse ratings from every critic, newspaper, and magazine than I've ever seen. Check it out on Yahoo movies.
ar8898
ar8898 - 6/29/2011, 11:56 AM
Haha, that picture sums up Bryan Singer in one word.

I watched Sucker Punch in the theater and I really didn't care too much for the story but the action sequences were awesome. I'm not too worried about Superman because Zack Snyder didn't write the screenplay, he is simply directing it.

I do think that Sucker Punch is worth watching because the visual effects are really cool. I would suggest redbox though.
CaptainTall
CaptainTall - 6/29/2011, 5:26 PM
Those are probably the last three roles to be casted. Jor El was one of the last, not the last.
LP4
LP4 - 6/29/2011, 6:36 PM
@MegaMattMOS- Dude I really hope you're right about that.

I've got a baaaad feeling about Lex and his possible exclusion from the film -_-
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