Michael Shannon Talks Playing General Zod

If you’ve seen the award-winning HBO drama series ‘Boardwalk Empire’ then you would recognize Michael Shannon who played one of the most conflicted and entertaining characters, Agent Van Alden. For some time we’ve been hearing that director Zack Snyder was interested in the talented actor playing the villain in his upcoming Superman reboot after Viggo Mortensen no longer became a contender.

Earlier this week the casting of Shannon was confirmed and the director released this statement:

Zod is not only one of Superman’s most formidable enemies, but one of the most significant because he has insights into Superman that others don’t. Michael is a powerful actor who can project both the intelligence and the malice of the character, making him perfect for the role.

Last year when Snyder was announced as the director of the film he was quick to quash rumors that General Zod would be appearing in the reboot. The power-hugry Kryptonian however is the ultimate villain and his inclusion in a modern updating would offer heart pounding action, not to mention plenty of conflict and duality between the survivors of the long since destroyed home-world. Without a super powered villain, the flick would lack the visually impressive battles and we would be left with earth bound villains such as Lex Luthor, who uses threats against the population to manipulate Superman.

On Sunday night, Shannon was honored with the 2011 Emerging Master Award at the RiverRun International Film Festival and the interview sees him nonchalantly relating his experience of the casting process, in part to entertain the audience.  While his irreverent style might be underwhelming for someone about to take on such an iconic role, he talks about his impromptu screen test with Henry Cavill and his meetings with Zack Snyder. If you are a fan of his work, it’s interesting to see a more down to earth side to such an intense onscreen performer.

Check out the video here: