When the reigns of the Superman reboot were handed over to master filmmaker and producer Christopher Nolan, speculation began as to who would direct the new movie and which actor would portray the character in the modern context. With director Zack Snyder locked in to helm the movie from a script by David S. Goyer, the search for the coveted role is now over with Warner bros announcing they have found their next Superman.
Henry Cavill who turns 28 this year, will play the quintessential Superhero ending rumors that ‘True Blood’ star Joe Manganiello was the frontrunner. Other contenders were Armie Hammer from ‘The Social Network’ and even ‘Mad Men’ star John Hamm.
Cavill is probably best known for his role on ‘The Tudors’, and soon in the upcoming ‘Immortals’ playing the Greek warrior Theseus. However this is not the first time the young actor has brushed up against ‘The Man of Steel’ and has been in the running for many coveted roles throughout his career.
At one stage he was the favorite to play Superman when directors Brett Ratner and McG were planning their movie and he later auditioned for the Batman role which would go to Christian Bale. Incredibly he was also a contender for James Bond but was deemed too young and lost out to Daniel Craig.
With Warner Bros confirming the actor’s casting, director Zack Snyder issued a statement:
In the pantheon of superheroes, Superman is the most recognized and revered character of all time, and I am honored to be a part of his return to the big screen.
I also join Warner Bros., Legendary and the producers in saying how excited we are about the casting of Henry. He is the perfect choice to don the cape and S shield.
The Superman reboot won’t be a full origin story and will likely only use some of the comics as a launching point similar to ‘The Dark Knight’ which only draws inspiration from the source material. The story originates from the minds of Christopher Nolan, and comic book movie veteran David S. Goyer who hinted that the Secret Origin comics maybe that source material.
However Snyder explained that the reboot will have no ties to the previous films and refutes the claim that its based on a specific comic book story.
As I have already explained, the film will focus on early days of Superman, so there will be no links with other films. This is not a remake then. Similarly, although I still can not talk about the script, I can assure you that this new Superman will not be based on a comic book in particular.
The casting of Henry Cavill in this role could be the beginning of a new franchise and with the talents of Zack Snyder at the helm, it will surely be a true super-hero film like no other.
Charles Roven, Emma Thomas, and Deborah Snyder are producing, along with executive producers Thomas Tull and Lloyd Phillips.
The Superman reboot is targeted for release in December 2012.
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Thanks for your feedback, looking forward to Zack’s Superhero flick.