Well, here’s the best fucking idea we’ve heard all day. This morning the rumor mill started around Zack Snyder‘s “Superman” again with word that Edgar Ramirez (“Carlos“) was being considered for a villain role in the upcoming film. Well, another actor has now emerged — someone who is perhaps one of the finest character actors working right now.
Deadline reports that Michael Shannon — probably best known to mainstream auds for his turn in “Revolutionary Road” — is being eyed for a baddie role as well in “Superman.” Of course, details are thin to non-existent. No idea what the part is or if it’s the same one Ramirez is being eyed for. But if there’s anything to take away from this, it’s that Warner Bros. and Christopher Nolan seem to be making sure Snyder is surrounded with as many strong actors as they can muster. If the film succeeds or fails, it certainly won’t be at the hands of the actors if WB can help it.
It’s kind of weird. We were just talking to come colleagues recently about Michael Shannon and how his unique presence pretty much meant that he would never be a mainstream leading man (there’s a reason he’s not named in “The Bourne Legacy” shortlist for example). And while we’re worried that Shannon will get pigeonholed into these kinds of roles, if he’s going to leap into tentpole territory, why not go for broke with something that fits firmly in his wheelhouse.
But again, this is all pretty much speculation at this point and we’re sure there are plenty of actors being eyed for the role. Shannon just came off a season of the excellent “Boardwalk Empire” and we imagine scheduling for the second season will be a huge question mark in regards to any participation he has in “Superman.” But all this to say, thumbs up at least in the direction that casting is moving.
“Superman” flies into theaters in December 2012.
