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Ain't It Bale in DARK TOWER news? UPDATED with Bardem news!!!
Hey everyone. Capone in Chicago here.
Today is an interesting day of DARK TOWER non-news. Conflicting casting information that is actually not casting information as much as it's informed speculation. And it's the least interesting (and unfortunately most prevalent) kind of online journalism in the entertainment field, and there seems to be a wild sprint to get it up regardless of fact checking, etc.. So, amidst some new speculation from our friend Nordling, allow me to add some facts to THE DARK TOWER project—not so much about casting, but not unrelated to it either. Here's what Nordling writes:
Well, according to Deadline, Javier Bardem has been offered the role of Roland. If that's true, while I love Bale's work, Bardem's the man in my opinion. He'll bring that cold nobility to Roland that fans want to see. We'll know for sure in the coming days, and it looks like Bale was indeed in the running, but according to Mike Fleming, the role's Bardem's if he wants it. Stay tuned. I just hope WIZARD AND GLASS is done right.
--Nordling
Okay, this was reported, and I'm not doubting it's truth. That being said, when Ron Howard was in Chicago a couple weeks back promoting THE DILEMMA, we had an off-the-record conversation about THE DARK TOWER project, but it was him asking me most of the questions. And most of the questions were about casting, with very specific names being lobbed at me. I promised Ron I wouldn't reveal our conversation and I'll stick to that agreement. However, some of what he told me in confidence, he has since revealed in other places, so I think that's fair game now. But when the actor playing Roland is revealed once and for all, I'll be happy to detail the parts of our conversation that had to do with casting. But I will say that it was extremely clear to me that Howard had a favorite, because we spent the most time talking about him and Howard went into great detail explaining the why this particular actor would be perfect for the part. A convincing as hell case was made, from my perspective as someone who has read and re-read the Stephen King series several times.
One the record, Howard told me that the names that were being bandied about a few weeks ago (Bardem, Viggo Mortenson) were definitely people whose names were mentioned in meetings about casting. The subtext is that there were other names. At no point did Bale's name pop up in our conversation, on or off the record. Doesn't mean he wasn't a part of the discussion in casting meetings; he just wasn't brought up with me.
On to some non-casting things that need clarification. I believe it is Howard's intention to direct all three of THE DARK TOWER features, most certainly the first and second ones. In between the first and second film, will be a six- or seven-episode miniseries that will bridge the two features. I believe Howard plans on directing at least a couple of these episodes and closely overseeing the remaining parts (kind of the way Frank Darabont ran the show for "The Walking Dead"). Don't assume the movies and TV series to break where the books break, which would be impossible since there are seven books and only five sections to this project.
That being said, the television component between the second and third feature will be a full-length series (not sure if that means 12-13 episodes as cable tends to do, or a full 22-23 episodes on network, presumably NBC, although I wouldn't count that as a given). It's my understanding that this longer television section will basically cover the entirety of the flashback story of "Wizard & Glass" (the fourth DT book), which opens up an interesting prospect. Assuming that the cast of the series would be completely different from the movie cast (since the flashbacks cover Roland as a young man), this opens up the possibility that films two and three could be shot back to back or simultaneously, since the actors wouldn't be needed for the series. I haven't seen this idea written anywhere, and Howard never mentioned it, so I'm guessing (which, as you know, I hate). But with the idea of actors signing onto a multipart project, which would presumably take up two or three years of their life, the idea of shooting two features back to back has got to make the job more appealing.
The scripts are still being written, but I think Howard, screenwriter Akiva Goldsman, and a team that Howard referred to as his DARK TOWER task force, which I'm told includes Robin Furth, King's personal research assistant and co-creator of "The Dark Tower" comic books and "The Dark Tower: A Complete Concordance, Volumes I & II," are on the right path. I certainly trust Furth to keep things honest.
I think I'll stop there. There's more to tell, but as more news comes forth, I'll say what I can. Until then, I'll walk along the beam like everyone else, and hope that a few actual facts come out in the days ahead. And now it's time to talk amongst yourselves…
-- Capone
capone@aintitcool.com
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Readers Talkback
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Hope he knocks it outta the park! This is a big project, and is going to require huge commitment on everyone's part.
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That would be great! I don't have much faith in Ron Howard but the casting of Bale would cheer me up no end.
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A Thousand Times No! Enough of this actor, pretty soon he will be in 75% of all movies made!
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is, indeed, the best one. downhill for the rest of the series.
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Thought the first books of both were great, and then they got progressively worse. Dark Tower slid off a lot faster, though. I think I gave up in the third one, whatever it was called.
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c'mon! the dude is a freakin chameleon.
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There's either a misprint or Susanna's going to be f-ing WHITE.
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Jan. 26, 2011, 5:27 p.m. CST
Bale? I suppose. An American would've been a better choice.
by Stereotypical Evil Archer
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Where he goes badass, with a little grit he could make a decent Roland. Daniel Craig would be pretty kickass, too since he nails the intensity Roland needs. Although pretty much anybody outside of young Clint, I think is gonna feel slightly off, no matter who they cast. Really wish it wasn't Howard doing this. Guillermo del Toro or Frank Darabont are the only ones who I think could pull this off, but we'll see. If it's pg 13, then we're F'ed
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1st off I am not sure who is perfect for this role. I think Viggo is the best name I have heard so far but I am not 100% sold on him either. 2nd off I am not holding my breath that this is actually even going to happen. I am still firmly in the I'll believe it when I see it corner. 3rd I don't think there is more than a 2% chance that this will turn out as good as the book deserves. I hope that it will be good and an enjoyable movie but not even close to the book. Everyone needs to remember that LOTR was the exception---not the rule.
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...to show interest just to entice the studio into pulling the trigger on such a mammoth multi-platform project. But that doesn't mean they'll get one. I just don't see this happening. At least not as planned. I foresee a future where a film adaptation of The Gunslinger takes its place alongside failed franchise starters like Golden Compass, Percy Jackson, Lemony Snickett, etc... And LOL at Jennifer Carpenter. She pulled off the incredible feat of being the worst actress in a series that also had Julie Benz as a cast member.
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And the last two volumes are just... too meta. The ending is very unsatisfactory, IMO. You might be better off just wondering how it might have been, had Stephen King not been killed by that van....
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Jan. 26, 2011, 5:47 p.m. CST
"Guillermo del Toro or Frank Darabont are the only ones who I think could pull this off"
by MattmanReturns
Agreed. Howard's films rarely have any personality, sadly, so it's hard for me to get too excited about this, despite being a huge fan of the books.
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Bale's rant has proved more memorable than Terminator wotsit, and of course far more entertaining. I've thought about reading the Dark Tower series but everyone seems to say it goes down hill, so should I bother?
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You're right, it's the best and was never topped in the series. Once he started getting meta and writing himself into the books it went downhill... quickly.
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Read the article. Could Howard be casting a white chick for Susanna? And how could anyone consider Dexter's sister in ANYTHING? She sucks!
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This is retarded. Has anyone seen "The Proposition" that has anything to do with this film franchise? Frankie D should be directing and Guy Pearce should be Roland. End...of...story. Common sense.
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= the suck.
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Hoping it was a mistake. Susannah's supposed to be a hot black woman... more along the lines of Zoe Saldana.
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as he really is the only man to play the role
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shouldnt Sir Dickblood get paid royalties or something for that?
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Jan. 26, 2011, 6:03 p.m. CST
If only there was a decent American actor in Bales age range...
by Righteous Brother
can't think of any though. They're all useless. Meanwhile, shouldn't AICN be reporting on the new trailer for Arkham City? It's fucking awesome.
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It's fan made using Arkham Asylum. The lines and enemies are all from the first game.
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I can't take seriously any source that also claims Dexter's Jennifer Carpenter is up for Susannah. Casting outside the character's race would be hugely controversial. I can't imagine Howard would even consider it, and if he is then this project is in deeper trouble than I thought.
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Hmmm.. Just finished "The Gunslinger" and it was kind of dreamily lazy.. I wonder how long this "Drawing" book will take to get goinggggoooOH MY GOD THEY BIT HIS FINGERS OFF!!
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Jan. 26, 2011, 6:21 p.m. CST
Old enough? Big enough? Opie could hire Madmartigan himself, Val Kilmer..
by openthepodbaydoorshal
guys old & big ain't he?
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Never cared for Roland.
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Interesting. I'd like to see Val have a come back.
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dumbest thing i heard on this site............
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He does a great Eastwood.
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I echo the sentiments of those who say Roland needs to be played by an American actor. Just as Harry Potter was a distinctly British story that needed British actors, so is the Dark Tower a distinctly American series that needs American actors. Besides which, I maintain that Bale and Mortensen both are too young. Only five years ago when the series finished and people started talking seriously about a film adaptation, some people were suggesting Bale as Eddie Dean (which also would have been a miscast, but whatever). That's how young he is. If we're going that young, why not Jeremy Renner. Just saw The Town. That dude is a badass, and he is weathered. AND American. A little short, but if we're throwing age out the window, why not height? Just sayin'. What about Ed Harris? What about Jeff Fucking Bridges, who gave us one of the great Western performances of the last thirty years just this last year? What about Robert Patrick? Terry O'Quinn? Gary Goddamn Sinise? Bruce Campbell (sorry fanboys, I'm kidding)? Bryan Cranston? What about Harrison Ford if you want a huge fucking name? Why is everyone so focused on these pups? Roland has lived a LONG time, and a HARD time. His age is never specified, but it's strongly implied. And casting should reflect this.
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if so, wouldn't that leave out, real grade A talent like BALE out, and make more likely for those "almost" actors like Olyphant more likely?
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i don't see how him being American is particularly important...does King state anywhere he speaks with a Brooklyn accent?
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I submit my vote for Viggo. I definitely think Bale could pull it off, but Viggo looks more the part in my opinion. Of course, to be perfectly honest, Eastwood 10 years ago would've rocked this (probably still could). And I'm currently on Wizard and Glass -- phenomenal!
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ala The Proposition.....if that aint weathered enough for you I don't know who would be.
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Jennifer Carpenter as Susannah is outrageous. If the can't get one of the main character's skin color right, I have some serious doubts that they'll do the series justice at all.
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I know Braindrain is gonna love that
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W&G is by far the pinnacle of the series
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That kills it. Absolutely kills it. I can buy Roland being a little too young, but how the hell do you pull off Suz's backstory without the jail cell? How can Detta Walker be Detta Walker without going through what black women went through in the 60s? This is just preposterous.
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The Western is a uniquely American art form. Given that, and given the distinctly Western sweep and feel of the series, casting an American isn't necessary, but it's certainly preferable. At least in my book.
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In his entire 25 year film making career has he done anything that would lead anyone to believe that he has the ability to pull this off? He's got some great movies under his belt like Apollo 13, but insane Stephen King fantasy??
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It will be like the 2nd coming of the Grinch! Yay!
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You know how many girls he's had sex with!? but seriously you were smart to not continue the book series. The last two were some shite...the only that was good was when they met Dandelo...damn I hope Tim Curry is picked for that...PLEASE OH GOD MAKE TIM CURRY DANDELO
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someone make it happen
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Viggo is the obvious choice. He'd be good, but maybe disappointing. Olyphant? Really. I sure do like him as the wild west sherrif, but hasn't he played that part enough? I think a good choice would be John Hamm, but that's just because I'm sad he's not Superman. How about the real goddamn batman, Clint Eastwood? The role was defined by him, and he's still very much in the game. How about David Strathairn? He's got gravitas coming out of every orifice, and according to IMDB, today is his birthday.
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...to the guy pearce chorus. THAT'S great casting. (though bale wouldn't be horrible, if they age him a bit.) but howard? i don't see it. two words: dara bont.
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Jan. 26, 2011, 6:48 p.m. CST
Opie's hot fucking daughter was on the set the day Bale flipped out.
by AzulTool
I think he even mentions her in the middle of his little bitch-fit.
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and bale will talk like he had a stick up his ass like in dark knight
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then Will Smith should be the Gunslinger! I mean, he did play a cowboy before but in all seriousness, I really hope this and that Cthulu shit can hurry up and be made so I can stop hearin about it from the "fanboys" cant you guys talk about literature that I like?
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straithairn's a great choice, too. shoulda read more comments before i commented, dammit.
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They can change as much as they want then. It's Roland's final time round. I also think Bale would have made a better Eddie a few years ago.
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If he can't be assed doing it he can at least play Roland's dad.
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If you're going to go down in flames, might as well go balls out
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book1 3.75 stars out of 5 book2 4.25 book3 4.5 book4 4.75 book5 3.75 book6 3.75 book7 4.25
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that anyone would consider adapting The Dark Tower series, given the fact that it isn't even finished yet (he's admitted as much) and probably never will be. The comic books are still going and King is planning an eighth book, which is supposed to take place between the 4th and 5th. Besides, none of this matters. We all know that the only adaption that matters is the upcoming 'A Song of Ice & Fire' adaption.
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Ummm no. Howard you ginger fucking pussy if you pull a move like that I'll show you a hate crime you stupid tit. White my ass!
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It suffered from my eternal pet peeve: it had no plot, just a series of events that happened. You could have rearranged all that stuff into any order, for the most part, and it wouldn't have mattered. And Aaron Eckhart, if he lost weight, would be a good Roland. (I don't mean he's fat, he's too buff.) And Ron Howard is a terrible choice for this.
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That headline was just stupid. "Bale considered for DARK TOWER lead" would have been just fine. Also, Harry...please give me a call. I would like to make peace with you again after all the years. I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me. Your loving brother, Larry.
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Doesn't matter if the actor playing Roland isn't an yankee. it DOES matter if the actress playing Susannah is white, however...
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Someone mentioned him once, and I can't agree more. I know they're probably dismissing him cuz of his TV presence... but I could absolutely see it. I remember reading the book back in the late 90's and picturing Paul Rudd as Eddie Dean. I think it was cuz of his character in "Clueless".
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as Susannah. It has been written.
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get Bale to commit to this. What are they gonna pay the guy? $100million? He can take his pick right now and he picks em pretty well as far as I can tell. He won't sign on for this. Howard and co can have anyone they want at the top of their list, but getting them to sign on is a different story. I'm sure Steve Guttenberg is available.
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I only read Cell (which sucked halfway thru) but has he ever had a good ending to his books? from the consensus, it seems this series ending sucked too PS: WHAT THE FUCK?! A telepathic zombie mummy? a waste of however much I wasted on it Ill stick with Palahniuk and Harlan Coben...
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Fork me.
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In a recent official survey, 93% of casting directors agreed that Viggo Mortensen would be better in this role than Christian Bale. It's official. Also, Harry, please call me. I love you. Larry
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was a huge fuck you. It was awesome.
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See The Shining, The Stand, Cujo, Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption, Pet Sematary, Hearts in Atlantis, and yes, The Dark Tower, for examples of great endings Stephen King has written.
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They write stuff just to meet a deadline, or to spread lies about rivals to FOX (both owned by NewsCorp.) Not True.-------later-----m
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ok, i just wanted to start by saying that after years of coming to this site i decided after reading this article that it was time to actually create an account. my interest in aintitcool has definetly increased since the development of a DT movie has been announced. the books mean a great deal to me as i am sure they do to plenty of you out there, so you can understand the emotion when shit just doesnt seem to be going right at all. im not referring to bale, hes an amazingly committed actor. this is actually good news, though i agree that hes too young/not weathered. roland is OLD after the end of DT1, not viggo or guy old (shitty suggestions) but bridges or dennis quiad old(it would work). what i started talking about above is this jennifer carpenter casting suggestion. first of all im pretty sure thats a mistake and theyre talking about susan (making susannah white is unbelievable and uncalled for). however, casting her in either role is a mistake. susan is 16 and to change that crucial adolescent character development in rolands story will take away from it greatly. also, the last i read naomie harris was up for susannah which is ok with me. howard is wrong (i agree with del toro and darabont above), carpenter is wrong, and most of all AKIVA is wrong. all i hope is that somehow these assholes are listening to the fans and not seeing dollar signs before fucking up something that could be great.
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That crappy Stephen King-projecting-stern-mammy-dialogue. GONE. Great edit.
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I'd like to see Nick Stahl considered. An unusual choice, yes, but I've been re-watching Carnivale recently, and he's just fucking amazing in that. Ben Hawkins is hollow-eyed and exhausted, dragging himself towards his destiny. Tell me this guy couldn't be Roland?
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Jan. 26, 2011, 7:19 p.m. CST
So the people who didn't finish have no idea what I mean with Roland having the Horn?
by CharyouTree
It mean's infinite possibilities!
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http://www.deadline.com/2011/01/javier-bardem-wanted-for-the-dark-tower/
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That is a great character most actress of color would want. Half of Hollywood, NYC, and even London would want to play her. Again, BOGUS ARTICLE, just trying to tweek Opie's nose.-----later-----m
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They aren't going to cast a white woman as Detta Walker. Just think about it a minute...See? They're not.
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Ghita Tazi was the other name suggested so I think it was unfortunately for the Susannah role as she's way to old for Susan. Great first post by the way.
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As much as some people seem to dislike the idea I think Bardem's an amazing actor and could pull it off. He's looking pretty svelte these day's too.
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Roland is what, 13? They better re-cast to younger actors. Watching any of these proposed actors try to play teenagers will lead to nothing but unintentional comedy. Also, Viggo all the way.
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Christian Bale American Phsyco Awesome. Christian Bale Batman Begins Awesome. After that not so much..He couldn`t capture the John Connor role. He fell from perfect for batman in DarkKnight. All i can say to Ron Howard/Stephen King. Do what George Lucas would do...Find a Nobody and make a star!
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Ditto on the Guy Pearce, or Jeremy Renner. Aaron Eckheart is to pretty boy to play Roland. And Susannah should totally be old girl from True Blood. (Lol not the white girl Ronnie Boy)
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I think it's wrong that so many people say that Bardem wouldn't fit. Of course, he would. Bardem can play anything that throws at him. He'll nail this role perfectly like you said, charyoutree!
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I can live with that. He's not an American, but he is a fucking brilliant actor, and he's got the appropriate weariness. I'd still prefer someone older, but so long as they cast a good actor I'm satisfied.
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Of course they're not going to have the same actors play them at 13. What in the world would make you think they would?
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Jan. 26, 2011, 7:37 p.m. CST
Aaa Cheers battle_royale. The Horn. For the peep's who didn't finish.
by CharyouTree
I think I'm right in saying that if Roland started the movie with a little Horn on his belt, it would mean that all the problem's people seem to have with the book's, the later one's especially, can be changed, moved or even erased and re-written. And I loved the ending to The Dark Tower.
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The horn suggestion is genius, but I think to intelligent for Hollywood.
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This site has fallen off big time. Y'all don't break any news anymore. I don't why I go here. The nauseating fat slob that runs this site needs to either chuck it or improve things cuz it ain't cool anymore.
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so I can't see a problem with Bardem's voice. I agree he's not EXACTLY what I pictured but I do think if anyone can pull it off it's him.
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Jesus Christ. Really? that is the WORST story in the entire series. The worst. One big fucking LOST like flash back story. Fuck that.
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I'll admit can't even write a shopping list, but I can write better than Goldsman!
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those are damn serious books - so why not cast an actor who lacks any humor? also, it's probably not his fault that t4 was that bad... still mortensen or bardem would fit that role much better.
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Or drunk? Just wondering. I'm both. Well...not really horny, I guess. Just drunk.
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He wishes he made a crappy Roland Emmerich movie?
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Jan. 26, 2011, 7:52 p.m. CST
Bale would actually be great as either Eddie Dean or Walter O'Dim
by MrEkoLetMeLive
Not so sure about him as Roland though.
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As evidence, see the Proposition.
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What do you guys think? Agree or disagree?
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Jan. 26, 2011, 7:59 p.m. CST
bardem would be my vote, i'd really like to see him kick ass again
by stu_pickles
he's an out-of-the-box choice, which would be refreshing. he needs to get out of the super drama/romance movies once in a while anyway
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Girls! Are you out there? I'm a really handsome, wealthy, humble, humorous, successful, compassionate guy. I'm also quite well-hung. If you are pretty and a girl then please respond to this post and let's discuss whether Christian Bale is the best casting choice to play Roland in Ron Howard's adaption of Stephen King's Dark Tower series.
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No to both of those. Especially Zoe. She's god-fucking-awful.
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Jan. 26, 2011, 8:05 p.m. CST
I think Zoe Saldaneawould be the perfect casting choice...
by Larry Knowles
...for playing my newlywed wife on our honeymoon night! Yes please! (maube I am a little horny) Also, Harry, give me a call. I love you. Larry
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Yessir
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Need I say more?
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Tell me you were joking about that being your ideal Roland. Holy shit. Are you retarded?
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Those aren't theomly two black actresses in Hollywood you know. I like Naomie Harris. I think Kandyse McClure could be a good choice too.
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also in that ninja assassin movie. she's smoking
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Takes deadpan to a pretty extreme level. Never been a fan. But I guess it doesn't matter. It's Bardem, and that's a choice I can live with.
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I am curious to hear your views on Carrot Top for the role of Roland. Becuase, at face value, this would seem like a silly choice. But on deeper inspection, this might be the role that he was born to play.
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Jan. 26, 2011, 8:22 p.m. CST
why does Nordling always post in that weird Nordling-font?
by CountryBoy
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Naomie Harris was the chick in Ninja Assassin and Miami Vice. She was also that Voodoo Lady, Tia Dalma, in POTC. She is also responsible for the 9-inch erection that I have had for the last two years. I think it would be quite memorable to enjoy a night of carnal pleasure with that woman.
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He looks like a chubby Raul Julia. His eyes are droopy and not intense enough.
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But Bale is no Mortensen or Barem, nor will he ever be. He has proven, despite Fighter, to be a one note actor. The only reason to cast him is for box office. Then again, this being a Stephen King production, that might be necessary to turn a profit.
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timothy olyphant would be great choice i love him on justified and he was on deadwood so you know from those two series he can play a badass gunslinger. i guess if they want someone a little bit younger than theyll go with bale
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According to a bunch of other sites. I'm up for that, even though that's a completely different direction from what I always imagined.
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It's official...93% of people surveyed agreed that Javier Bardem is too chubby and droopy and Spanish to play the Gunslinger.
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I'd be perfectly happy for Suzanna to be white. A black, ghetto-talking amputee screwing an ex-junkie may seem wonderful to you white guys, but it is a razor-line walk even for a writer as gifted as King. Looking at what white directors did with the black characters in "The Shining" and "Green Mile" I have ZERO confidence that Suzanna would be anything other than a revolting caricature, just utterly horrible.
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no, i think it really is a good choice.
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Javier Bardem would not. Also, Harry, Dad wants to know if you would like to get togehter for dinner on Valentine's Day? Just let me know. Thanks, Larry.
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Jan. 26, 2011, 8:44 p.m. CST
i guess if a character is based off an actor then said actor would be the best choice
by stu_pickles
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In a recent poll, 93% of people agree that Javier Bardem looks like Raul Julia's chubby older brother. Childe Roland to the Dark Tower came!
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but If they are in fact gonna try and follow the books they almost need to have different actors for the character cause he seems to go through a lot that changes his outlook. like bale in almost everything he does but not sure if he is right for this.
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have a new actor play the same character throughout a storyline. remember josh brolin?
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I can see how people would say the book goes downhill after Wizard and Glass, but to say that that book is the best of the 7 is ca-razy! Wizard and Glass is a bit of a romance novel. I didn't like it as much as the first three. The 7th book is a return to form, though. So, concentrate on 1-3 gloss over 5-6 and focus again at 7 The end.
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Jan. 26, 2011, 8:52 p.m. CST
I'm conducting another offical poll about Javier Bardem...
by Larry Knowles
Please participate in my official poll. As soon as I get one response, I will post the results. Do you feel that Javier Bardem is... a) chubby b) slightly obese c) Raul Julia in disguise as a famous Spanish actor?
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Nordling has lost all credibility as far as the Dark Tower goes for me. Sorry.
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i dont see the resemblance
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is by far the worst, and is the most out of place in the series. It's an alright story taken on it's own, but lacks the "rawness" of all the others. It's really distruptive to the flow of the books. Luckily, Calla got the epic quest back on track, and absolutely nailed the tone, and luckily this carried on till the end. In my experience, people who liked WAG the best don't have a fucking clue. Try to leave WAG out the adaptation please, I have no need of a shitey origin tale!!
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It has been confirmed on a highly reliable internet talkback forum that Javier Bardem will be playing Roland in the Dark Tower series using Motion Capture. It is the producers intent to use Clint Eastwoods younthful likeness in the film using Javier as the actor. 93% of people surveyed felt this was a prett good idea. Also, Harry, why did you return my christmas present? Pkease call me when you get home. I miss you. Larry.
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Christian Bale has been officially cast as Blaine the Mono. I bet you didn't see that coming!
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Jan. 26, 2011, 9:12 p.m. CST
Page6 article lists 2 whites as possible Susannah? I call bullshit on whole thing.
by SirGaryColeman
Isn't Page 6 a gossip column anyway? I don't know how credible of a source this is. Casting a white person to play a character that hugely identifies with her african american background sounds pretty out there. I don't believe that at all. Why did AICN leave that part out of this article?
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but nobody listens to me. I think Bale could be interesting, kind of. Whatever at this point. Howard's going to Opie up the thing with mediocrity...
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Most memorable story in its own right. Great dialog, romance, action. Everything. Without it, the series wouldn't be the same...
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Will print that the two actresses being strongly considered for the role of Susanna are none other than Gweneth Paltrow and Natalie Portman. They have both asked to attend classes on African American Heritage and customs. I know this becuse Gweneth is enrolled in the same online class that I'm in called, "Black, Black, Black".
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and Terence MUTHAFUCKIN' Stamp for Roland Deschaine!! IMHO
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I went on a marathon read of the books. I'd read the first few, but hadn't finished the series. But once Marvel offered me the comics, I knew I had to get up to speed. So I basically spent a month reading all seven novels. It was fascinating to watch the development of his style over the many years that he wrote it. PAD
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Bardem's eyes The eyes, good woman! Blue or brown, I won't complain, fill a cinema screen with Javier-as-Roland's ancient baby bluewns staring from under the brim of his hat across thatcanyon at a cackling Man in Black and it's already a half decent adaption. Bale is talented, granted, but there's something of the loser about him. Even his Batman was faintly dorky and desperate. He's better suited to kooks, manics and the unhinged, I would offer. Bardem's mix of intensity and steadfastness seems like a strong choice. Cool newth.
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he has one "talent" as an "actor" his ability/willingness to loose weight for a role.....enough with him.....
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in the same anime style of kill bill. I like Christian Bale for the role of Roland, but i still stand for Robert John Burke. He have the age, the look, and i'm pretty sure he would do it for one third of the money.
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Ronnie Howard hate on this thread. Kind of surprises me.
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Jan. 26, 2011, 9:54 p.m. CST
Timothy Olyphant has zero charisma and looks like a foot.
by CharyouTree
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2011 Oscar nominee Javier Bardem has been offered the role of Roland Deschain, the lead in Ron Howard’s upcoming adaptation of the Stephen King series “The Dark Tower.” Negotiations have not officially begun with Bardem, who was one of the frontrunners earlier this month along with fan favorite Viggo Mortensen. But Mortensen is now busying himself with Snow White and the Huntsman at Universal, it seems, and the role is Bardem’s for the taking. Christian Bale also joined the rumor mill this week, but according to Deadline “there’s a high level of enthusiasm internally that they’ve got their cowboy.” The adaptation of King’s seven-novel “Dark Tower” series is an ambitious, unprecedented blend of movies and television that Howard is overseeing and directing with his producing partner Akiva Goldsman, who is writing at least the first two pieces. The series will begin with a feature film, then transition into a TV component (likely a six-part miniseries) that will bridge the gap to a second film. Bardem is expected to star in those three elements. However, the fourth piece, another TV segment, will focus on Deschain as a young man and will require a new actor. The third feature will complete the series with the original cast.
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God. Why not just suggest Ryan Seacrest.
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Bardem is no Roland. How is he a cross between Eastwood and King? WTF
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Jan. 26, 2011, 10:23 p.m. CST
j2talk, emphasizing in CAPS does not solidify your opinion
by MattmanReturns
Watch this: People who say the sky is blue are full of SHIT. The sky is NOT blue.
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If I saw Ron Howard in public, I would ask him if he even BELIEVES in the Dark Tower! Is he trying to make a quick penny or a classic film? Sounds to me like he's looking for a buck. Has he even studied or attempted to live inside the mind of Roland? One thing to keep in mind (Stephen King paints this very clearly) is Roland never smiles or looks friendly - ever. It isn't until the last book that he finally smiles while he's under a spell and it looks WRONG/insane to Susannah. There has always been a very clear picture in my mind of a few people who could even attempt a role like this (it's important to cast someone who the audience has a hard time imagining seeing happy) - and I cannot turn away from the hardness of Daniel Day Lewis. His acting sells every time. Most people have no idea what he acts like or looks like in real life, unless they've seen him in interviews or have gone out of their way to do any research. I know I'm about to seem real silly when saying this, but about 4 years ago when JJ Abrams was supposed to be making this film, I wrote him a letter suggesting Daniel Day Lewis and I wrote Daniel Day's people suggesting they do whatever they can to put him up for the role. All I know is that Roland is too real, too hard, too deep to be played by some cheesy characters like Viggo (whose only good role was in The Reflecting Skin) or Bale (who butchered Batman and always has a haze of too much self-love painted across his face). If anyone out there agrees with me in the slightest bit, will you please help me get the word out that (not only has Stephen King made a grave mistake choosing Ron Howard to be in control of this masterpiece, but) Ron Howard will be making a grave mistake if he casts these JOKES as such a legend as Roland Deschain? Walden/Disney went and ruined (basically killed) Narnia for most of us... please don't let the same thing happen to the gunslinger of Gilead. Please. Please. Please. I was updated to this possibility (this article) while checking my phone in a parking lot on my way to my car, and I screamed, "NOOOOoooooooo!!!!" so loudly, I was certain people around me heard & thought I was crazy... but then, I thought - in the grand scheme of things, I just hope the Universe heard. And I hope that it echoed.
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Jan. 26, 2011, 10:28 p.m. CST
DANIEL DAY LEWIS is the ONLY person who could even come close to capturing Roland's dark spirit.
by KT Pierce
Make it known. Read my "Why???" post to hear my thoughts on this.
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I read all of the books and that to me is easily the most memorable. The ending especially packs a mean fucking punch. As for the DT movies until Opie is out of the directors chair I'm not even going to bother to care.
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Really? You feel that strongly about those films? The first two were mostly carbon copies of the stories, so I'm not sure how they ruined anything.
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Javier Bardem for The Man in Black would be a btter fit, and Viggo for Roland, would be my pick.
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Jan. 26, 2011, 10:45 p.m. CST
"Dark Tower" and "screenwriter Akiva Goldsman" in the same article
by sonic3305
Beyond depressing
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It really should be Robert Patrick - fantastic actor (see the dozen or so character roles he's played in the last decade), Dry no-nonsense voice, bombardier eyes, right age, not an 'easy cookie cutter choice'. However, Javier isn't a bad choice either.
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Jan. 26, 2011, 10:55 p.m. CST
Hopefully the time period will be specific to that which is was written
by Bobo_Vision
Most of the scenes which take place in our world were set in the early 90's, so hopefully they will make sure that it is set in that period. If it's set in 2011, and people are using iphones and surfing the net, it will be an automatic fail.
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Yeah, this franchise is fucked before it even gets off the ground. Has he ever written anything even sort of good?? Like...once?? And please don't say a Beautiful Mind. His Lost in Space script was better than that shit.
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why hasn't AICN reported on the John Travolta playing John Gotti in a biopic news??
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I went to a screening of Biutiful back in December & Bardem came out after to do a Q&A with the audience. Great and humble artist he is, but he specifically made a comment that he does not like to partake in big budget studio films with green screens. Personally, I think he will be GREAT in the role. I hope he agrees to do it!
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Jan. 26, 2011, 11:26 p.m. CST
IF YOU LIKE 'WIZARD and GLASS', YOU'LL LOVE HARLEQUIN ROMANCE NOVELS.
by uberman
Wizard and Glass was without a doubt one of the most dull novels I've ever read. Truly, if you have not read it and are starting the series, when you get to this book just read a plot summary and move on to the next book. But, if you want a taste of the utter dreck contained inside, pick a page at random. Read it. It most probably will be some overly wrought romantic tedium add nausem. Now, pick another page anywhere past that. Same thing. And another page. Dido. On and on and on and on and on and on and on and on...For me, this was the worst book King ever wrote barr none.
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should play the part
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Jan. 26, 2011, 11:44 p.m. CST
Ch Pounder as Susannah? Raise your hands.
by illegal alien vs sexual predator
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Jan. 26, 2011, 11:47 p.m. CST
Kelsey Grammar as voice of the crazy ChooChoo Train
by illegal alien vs sexual predator
No! Patrick Warburton!
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not for this one... he's gotta do a comedy.
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Jan. 26, 2011, 11:56 p.m. CST
Dark Tower was a great series of books that defied classification
by Damian Neal
If you tried to read the series with any preconceived notions of genre it would suddenly do a 180 on you and knock you over. Post-apocalyptic, western, POV, time travel, alternate worlds, cyborgs, mutants, flashbacks, 4th wall, etc... The characters were true all the way through, however. Truly a special series of books. I always saw Clint Eastwood as old Roland. Always thought Hugh Jackman looks just like a young Clint. Still a little afraid to see this on the screen. Each book is so dense. It's no wonder it has never been realized in a movie yet.
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Actually made me stop reading the series. I absolutely hated that book.
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Easy there, sai. I share your enthusiasm, but there's no way in the world Daniel Day-Lewis is ever going to commit to this kind of project. He's too independent, and on top of that he's unlikely to get enthused about a fantasy western. His tastes are notoriously high-falutin', for lack of a better term. Kind of a snob. But that's ok! Bardem will be fine, I promise. He's a terrific actor. Day-Lewis is a great actor, but he's not the only choice for Roland, and that kind of talk only guarantees you'll be disappointed.
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-you've never seen Justified. It's my favorite TV show..well...almost of all time. He'd be freaking perfect. But anyone that's being tossed around brings something unique and incredible to the table. They're ALL good in their own way, I can't wait to see who gets it.
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The voice of Smaug for The Hobbit. His low, rapsy delivery would really do justice to the character.
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read all the books in a month????
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Jan. 27, 2011, 12:53 a.m. CST
Mad Max meets Harry Potter while watching Back to the Future III
by illegal alien vs sexual predator
on lsd
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...do not let Bale or Bardem be Roland. Both are terrific actors, but are not a good fit for the part. Viggo all the way!
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Jan. 27, 2011, 1:37 a.m. CST
Bardem just had a baby, you better bet he wants the work securty
by thatfilmlover
a movie trilogy and tv show? He'll sign himself up.
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with all that Capone has written I am now a little bit more interested in seeing this happen. I was definitely one of the many DT geeks who would prefer NO film/films to a terrible abortion of a filmed version of this amazing tale. Flawed though it is, with the last 3 books not quite living up to the first 4 (though the ending, the ACTUAL very last few paragraphs that end the last book, are in my opinion DEAD ON, and make up for the crap that I had to read to get there). Especially with Robin attached, her work on the comics and the "guide to" books on series, make her a expert on all things DT. If SHE is a part of this, then my faith has been restored, and count me in as being stoked to see this finally happen.
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Why does Roland have to be played by an American actor? I thought he was last of the Eld line - which was a not so subtle allusion to King Arthur (wasn't the barrels of his guns forged from the metal of Excalibur?). Yes, admittedly most of the other characters should be American because they are American characters, but Roland? He could be from anywhere. Anyway, Viggo would be good, Bardem would be good but Clive Owen IS Rolan. Have a look at him in Shoot 'em Up or Children of Men, he has the requisite square jaw, the weather-beaten look and "bombardier eyes". In my mind Clive has the closest physical resemblance to what Roland looks like than any other actor. Viggo is too toothy and too fine-featured and Bardem just isn't Roland.
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gets my approval. Fucking Deadwood is proof enough! Come on, the man was born to play the western hard ass man with a six shooter, take no shit from anyone and do what needs to be done. He is in his 40's and I think he could pull off Roland great. I think he would just have to dig a little deeper to get it perfect, but I believe he could do it.
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While I think Bardem's a great actor, I just cannot see him as Roland. Mortensen seems to have been born to play the role, but there are other possibilities raised here (Timothy Olyphant f.e.) that could work well, too. And Bardem would make a great Man in Black, IMHO!
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Jan. 27, 2011, 2:13 a.m. CST
Bardem or Viggo would be awesome..as long as they rewrite the story
by BigDan
*Novel spoilers ahead* Bardem and Viggo are both tremendously charasmatic actors and I have no doubt that either could give us an unforgetable Roland. However I truly hope that after Wizard and Glass that the writers take huge liberties and fix what is some of Stephen Kings worst writing. Here is just at handfull of crap he forced into the series:himself, cyborg werewolves that use lightsabers and throw grenades called snitches marked Harry Potter model, Mordred, the death of Randal Flag,the deus ex machina what the fuck just happened defeat of the Crimson King
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The way to do it animated. And Roland's daddy voiced by Sam Elliot.
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I agree with the rewrites, there were a lot of missed opportunities that just fell flat with Kings execution of the story. I still liked what I read in the end, but was disappointed with the outcome. Though I do feel that he stayed true to the main characters, not taking any weird or unseen turns with them, but allowed them to retain who they were, which was a nice touch. They did grow as characters, don't get me wrong, but they didn't deviate from who they were destined to be. At least he didn't fuck that up...
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Except maybe Nora Ephron.
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I just don't get the hate for the later books. I kind of thought the lightsabers and snitches were cool - King's way of telling us that the Dark Tower really does connect ALL worlds. And it added to the alienness and strangeness and the sense that the gunslingers, no matter how much they learn, will never really know how powerful the Tower is. But the readers, and hopefully the audience, do. If those elements were missing from the films, I for one would be sorry. The same goes for King's presence in the books as a character. I thought that was such a brave, creative choice. His way of acknowledging the books' impact on his life. And the accident's. Good writers personalize. How much more personal can you get than writing yourself into your story, warts and all. It's not like King's portrait of himself is arrogant. He's portrayed as he was in that period of his life: cowardly, alcoholic, blocked, tormented. It's not a terribly pretty picture, which to me makes it all the braver. And yeah, I do think the adaptation will be less meaningful without him.
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This might make me interested in watching a Ronnie Howard movie again, since the last time i bothered with was with A SHIT MIND, for which i regreated deeply. And i stress MIGHT.
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Bardem can act but he simply does not fit Roland's age or physical description. At all. Viggo would bring the research and immersion required to do it justice, he's the right age, the right build, and has just the right balance of haggardness.
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The replacement Robocop? Put down the crack pipe.
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It's overblown, over-long and just plain bad in parts. It won't hold the attention of joe-public and will never get told in it's entirety on the silver screen or tv. I know that America is desperate to have a great fantasy series, but THIS certainly isn't it. Face it, you'll never have a Lord of the Rings.
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That's just a poor man's Tolkien rip off. Wheel of Time perhaps? Nope, another LOTR clone.
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Probably best written book in the series. If its given time as a tv series it could be great. I like Bardem for Roland, cold and magnetic. But every King fan will have an actor in their head for every role and how the story should play visually in their own head. Howard never stood a chance. No one would. It's interesting thinking aout how they do plan to split these features. An entire film of The Gunslinger mightn't provide enough meat in the plot although due to the length of the book it would allow Roland's introduction (and Walter's) to be fully realised. Do you do The Drawing of the Three as the Mini series then? Will talented actors want to be introduced to the story in this medium (Ben Foster for Eddie Dean btw)? Then what? Wastelands/Wolves of Calla as feature 2? Where does the second series fit? Can you do Song of Sussanah and The Dark Tower as a single final feature? Can we remove all the self appreciating/depreciating involvment of King as a character? My head hurts. BTW I'm half way through the final book. Hear the endings a real clanger. COULD WE PERHAPS ACTUALLY FIX THAT ON SCREEN IF TRUE? Richie we leave in your capaba... in your hands.
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Javier Bardem has just signed on to play the role of Raul Julia in Ron Howard's historical drama about the making of "The Addams Family" and "Addams Family Values". You can't make this stuff up!
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As long as Bardem has issues pronouncing certain English words. Anyone have film of him saying aspirin and hoagie?
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In this IMDB photo, I think Javier looks like he could be Rolland: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000849/</p> <p> That said, I don't think his accent would be an issue because no one knows how Rolland speaks...he's from another world, so I doubt he speaks any accent of English that we'd necessarily know. I guess I mean that he LIKELY speaks with some sort of accent, so that shouldn't be a deciding factor.</p> <p> Now, if Javier could lose a little weight so he takes on more of a gaunt/haggard look, I think he'll really disappear into the role (more so than Bale or Viggo, who we all know too well to REALLY believe they're Rolland).
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but now that it seems he's been offered the role, I actually think I prefer this choice over Bale and Viggo, because...well frankly it's less obvious and he's not as over exposed as the other two.
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NOOO!!! Neither Bardem nor Bale are good actors (if they can be called actors) or a good choice for this role. If they take one of them, the movie will be a crap and besides it will be a failure. I hope that the makers think a little and they choice another better actor. I have the hope that this be a joke.
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Are you out of your mind? Bale is a very good actor. There are few out there as committed as that guy. Check out THE MACHINIST...and I loved TERMINATOR: SALVATION and thought he did a great job. I haven't seen THE FIGHTER, but he's been nominated for an Oscar for Christ friggin' sakes.
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That is the one fantastic idea I've heard yet. Put a 12 episode series on AMC, FX, or HBO and it could be wonderful. A 22 episode season on NBC will destroy it beyond hope. Choose wisely, Opie.
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...they have about zero chance to get either Bale or Bardem for the role? Both actors are notorious for choosing roles because of the part and not for the money. Hell Bardem didn't even want to be iin minirity report and he wasn't the household name then, that he is now. I know both have done some commercial stuff, but I just can't imagine either one of them signing up for a very long commitment for films by Mr hollywoods Howard, Goldman and Grazer. By the way I do love the Dark Tower, and think this project is sorta intruiging. At the same time it has disaster written all over it. I mean Akiva goldsman has to be the worst writer in the history of hollywood and I love Ron Howard, but he is mr pg13 and safe. Both things the Dark Tower should never be!
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Jan. 27, 2011, 7:18 a.m. CST
Maybe they meant Jennifer Lawrence not Jennifer Carpenter?
by Jack Burton
I read that as Jennifer Lawrence before re-reading it as Carpenter. She'd make a good Susan. She was phenomenal in Winter's Bone. Otherwise they should go unknown with it. Roland's quest and his obsession to find the Dark Tower is about Susan Delgado, she starts everything. If that character isn't perfect the series won't work. And I agree, Susannah needs to be black as she was written. I always read her as Angela Basset myself.
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You guys know Howard and Goldsman are the team that brought us the DaVinci code, right? I mean, the man made Willow, so I can't hate too much, but that was a long time ago.
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It's true. I really have no opinion either way on this. Just sounds like a big clusterfuck waiting to happen. When I read the books, I thought "The Gunslinger" and "The Drawing Of The Three" should be the basis of the first movie. Then "The Wastelands" as the next movie, "Wolves Of The Calla" as the next, then "Song Of Suzannah" and finally "The Dark Tower". That condenses it down the five movies, with the events of "Wizard And Glass" being told in flashback as the series progresses. Make the first three back to back, and if they're succesful, do the last two back to back. Bish, bash, bosh, DONE. If I was a filmmaker, that's how I would've tackled it.
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Cut out all the postmodern shit, where stuff from Star Wars and Harry Potter comes into it (Wolves Of The Calla... I'm looking at YOU) AND get rid of the bit where they meet Stephen King! Worked in the books, WOULDN'T WORK on film. Piece of piss.
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Jan. 27, 2011, 8:36 a.m. CST
charyoutree! charyoutree! charyoutree! Start With The Horn Opie
by CharyouTree
you rusty pussy. Daniel Day as Rolands Father Joseph Gordon Levitt as Eddie Alan Rickman, Ian Mcshane and other British Thesp's as The Men in Black Shitty La Beef as Oy I think Bale and Bardem would both make better Men In Black like someone above said, but I do love Bardem and if he accepts I'd be happy. Wizard and Glass is a good book. I don't read many other "romance" novels though so I can't compare it like some seem to. And the news that after the Wizard and Glass TV series there will be only 1 more movie, could be good and mean there going with using the Horn, or it could be bad news and indicate he's cutting and slicing the last 3 books into 1 movie.
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Five movies. Drop the book subtitles. The Dark Tower - Part 1 Based on "The Gunslinger" and "The Drawing Of The Three" with flashback sequences from "Wizard And Glass The Dark Tower - Part 2 Based on "The Waste Land" with flashback sequences from "Wizard And Glass" The Dark Tower - Part 3 Based on "Wolves Of The Calla" with flashback sequences from "Wizard And Glass" (get rid of the Star Wars and Harry Potter references) The Dark Tower - Part 4 Based on "Song Of Suzannah" with flashback sequences from "Wizard And Glass"(get rid of the meeting Stephen King sections) The Dark Tower - Part 5 Based on "The Dark Tower" with flashback sequences from "Wizard And Glass"(get rid of the meeting Stephen King sections) And there you have your Dark Tower movie series folks. NOW, when this comes out on blu-ray/DVD, there could be an extra disc where all the "Wizard And Glass" flashback sequences are condensed into one long feature, maybe with a few extra scenes that were originally left out. That would be an added bonus for the hardcore fans. ARE YOU LISTENING HOLLYWOOD?!?!
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Mother Abagail has a right little palaver with the gang when she goes walkabout.. this is how Roland learns how to obtain the horn.. In this I speak for Gan.
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It ain't a gang. It's a "ka-tet". Get it right! ;-)
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"Wizard & Glass" is the one glaring dead note in a series of otherwise spectacular extremes. It's an overlong romance-slash-western with a ending so badly telegraphed that 100 pages in, you absolutely know how this flashback tale is going to end, and how every one of Roland's early ka-tet will fare. Worse, the same boring cattle-rustling plot is echoed in "Wolves of the Calla" - meaning you have to suffer through this obviousness TWICE. "Wizard & Glass" is, by far, one of the worst books in all of Stephen King's bibliography - worse than "The Tommyknockers" or even "Dreamcatcher." Thank god there are finally others here that feel the same. I was beginning to feel like I do when I rant online about the pandering sappiness of the fucking horrible "Shawshank Redemption." *makes that face*
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I sorta feel bad for Cruz giving birth to Javier's child....
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Both just speak to me and would easily fill the role of Roland with gravitas. Don't mind Susannah being white because the mammie speak always made me cringe in the book. If I were to go black, it would be Naomie Harris or Paula Patton. But if she's going to be white, I don't like Jennifer Carpenter.
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He would be the best choice to direct 'The Dark Tower'. With none other than Charles Bronson as Roland. It could've been like this: http://tinyurl.com/6henped
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Jan. 27, 2011, 10:28 a.m. CST
Still, good actors do not a good movies make if directed by hacks
by AsimovLives
And Ronnie Howard is an hack. A SHIT MIND was the last drop for me.
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the studio heads are probably worried that the character would come off seeming a tad offensive if left black. God bless Stephen, I'm a die hard fan, but few can argue that he doesn't write black people very well. To someone who's accustomed to his style it's not an issue, or even noticeable, but when you get a bunch of Stephen King virgins coming into a blockbuster movie by Ron Howard, having the only black character talk like she's out of a 70's blacksplotation film might not come off right on the screen.
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I read the series but skipped that one, and it didn't really affect the rest of the story. I've heard a lot of people say they only read the series until that book and then gave up, and I was really struggling with that one....it was like force-feeding myself brussel sprouts...I was not enjoying it....so I decided the only way I would finish reading the series is if I were to leave that one out.
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Can't we make more characters white?
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I am a massive fan of the Dark Tower series and have read every book at least once, most twice and a couple of them (Wizard and Glass, The Gunslinger) several times. I seem to remember a scene in The waste lands where Jake is walking by a poster of Clint Eastwood in The Good, the bad and the Ugly and thinks to himself that it looks just like Roland. To me, even before then, it was clear that Roland's taciturn nature was based on Eastwood and I think 30 years ago, he would have been fucking LEGENDARY in the film, but alas. I love the idea of Viggo in the part but can't get my head around Javiar. Anyone think that maybe the reason Bale has had long hair in the press for the Fighter is that he was screentesting for Roland? We know he's fucking method, so maybe we wanted to see what he would look like. I don't know, just an idea. I just love being in a world where a fucking Dark Tower movie and tv series might actually exist. I can't wait to hear the lines "Hail, Gunslinger, we are well met." Too cool.
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Jan. 27, 2011, 12:43 p.m. CST
Never read any of the Dark Tower books. Do they include...
by WriteForTheEdit
...Space Jockeys? They should.
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Most straight edge, boring director in hollywood. There is just no way this will be good- plus the last 4 books are awful. I remember finishing reading the 3rd and actually worrying that King might die before finishing the series, wizard and glass was ok after such a long break.. wolves was well.. readable.. I read about 3/4 of song of susannah and have no desire to proceed or read the final book. My lady got into it later so steam rolled through all my old copies and read the newer ones straight after (including the last book) and was equally let down.
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If the 22 episode tv season will be the second-to-last feature and will comprise the Wizard and Glass storyline then how in the hell can books 5, 6 and 7 be squeezed into a final 2-3 hour film? And for the record Ron, you'd better have a parallel universe Oy meet up with Susannah and the Toren brothers or there will be hell to pay. That goddamned bumblers death got to me more than any other. 'Olan indeed. <sniff>
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Aren't they getting a little ahead of themselves here? They're just assuming these productions will be a huge hit? What if the first movie turns out to be a total disaster and bombs?
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Jan. 27, 2011, 3:06 p.m. CST
Tarsem Singh would've been and inspired choice to direct
by THE_CHOPPAH
Ron Howard isn't fit to direct car dealership commercials.
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i'd prefer bardem. he just seems better suited to the role. then we could have vigo play walter and the whole thing would be glorious. on an entirely different note. NORDLING. YOU HAVE FORGOTTEN THE FACE OF YOUR FATHER! GET TO THE BOOKSTORE AND FINISH!
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If you only know him from NCFOM, I could see why you wouldn't think so, tho.
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Consult a His Dark Materials fan for coping advice.
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a modern day update of The Elephant Man. He already has the huge head required for the role.
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when he was a kid. I think it was called Mask.
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Plus, they have the added benefit of having last names that start with the same letter.
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Brought it up before, I still think he'd be a stud.
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Brought it up before, I still think he'd be a stud.
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Every day of the week. I love Bardem, he's just not at all Roland.
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...would be a good choice for Eddie Dean.
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You're a nice person and a capable director, but you're utterly mismatched for The Dark Tower. Get edgy, talented, suitable directors like Frank Darabont, Guillermo del Toro and Darren Aronofsky to direct these films instead. You should take a back seat and just executive-produce them. You know that virtually all fans of the books are displeased with your involvement? Please stop being so selfish.
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AND GIVE ME MY FUCKING ARRESTED DEVELOPMENT MOVIE
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Lord Bale rules
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while i scream to you "SWEAR TO ME!" in goofy-gravely bat voice god bless me...and steal the one badass & crucial character redefining moment - as a main point of criticism that matters - when Gorden gets to take down Flass in the comics...<p>Robin Furth sounds very encouraging and everything, but still can't help feel very skeptical about this all... can't they just make Sir Apropros of Nothing instead please? Someone get Peter Davids agent on the phone...i'd see that with... i dunno Steve Buscemi as the lead. I hope all my instincts are wrong about this project. I even feel like a jerk just feeling the need to point out Badiem seems wrong because he seems wrong & for nothing to do with his nationality or race or natural accent. But.. i'm of to watch Live Flesh, No Country & the Sea Inside again, and then read Song of Susanah, to try and convince myself im talking shit. Also Heath Ledger and all that.
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A Ron Howard production of a Stephen King story featuring Mr King as a character. If this role is not played by Colin Hanks, I will eat my hat.
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First of all he's a red head and when's the last time a Ginger made anything good? Secondly, all his movies suck. He's the wrong man for this. Fat Harry should see that. And why did fat Harry close the comments to that idiotic Annie article.
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Is what I meant to say. How dumb was that Annie article?
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Poland needs to be a LITTLE good-looking, IMO. And, Wincott is a great supporting actor, but he lacks the charisma needed to carry what could become a multi-film project. You do want people to buy tickets to this (well, the producers will, anyway) and no one in their right mind would say "Hey! Cast that guy with the craggy face... you know, the one who was Alan Rickman's sidekick in Prince of Thieves!" <P> They's be way better off casting an unknown... of course, that hasn't worked out too well recently either. <P> Or, maybe they're just screwed.
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Hadn't thought of Clive Owen. You may have something there.... <P> First good idea I've heard yet about this train-wreck to be...
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Jan. 29, 2011, 1:46 p.m. CST
I don't know if anyones mentioned it yet; but one thing is for certain
by conspiracy
the lighting will be PERFECT on this motherfucker. "Most important for any film is the Actor, then the Script, then the Lighting...bad lighting can fuck up a blokes Professionalism and ruin a good picture...I'm fucking serious." The Book of Bale chapter 5, verse 19.
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But... 1. It raises a valid point about characterization and perception. 2. The Talkback is one funny motherfucker.
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guy to shine lights in a guys eye without letting them know it by the time the take rolls. Or at least hire a director who would step in and proverbaly kick someones ass rather than cower back with the producers and let a tape leak so the rushed, hackneyed, bunch of hasty seized opportunities wrapped around a model of production that doesnt really give a shit about the material past the bankrolling isnt going to ultimatly hold any responsibility for another expensive tentpole failure. Is Ron that director? Will Bale be the actor anyway? I don't know on the former, i seriously doubt the latter.
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If they're looking for a new, big-deal movie franchise, they're definitely looking in the right place. Nearly ALL of my friends LOVE the books; they love 'em just as much as the LOTR nerds love the Tolkien books, meticulously pour over every inane detail. I could see this being a huge hit. As for me, I read the first book and thought it was terrible. Everyone tells me it "really gets good around book 4," but, meh, I wasn't interested enough in the first to slog through 2 more "meh" books until the "good ones" start.
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