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UPDATE: I've learned that Marvel Studios and director Joe Johnston are testing candidates for The First Avenger: Captain America which Paramount will distribute on July 22, 2011. I’ve scooped their wish list: most but by no means all of the contenders are young hunks who come from both movies and television -- Chace Crawford (CW's Gossip Girl), John Krasinski (NBC's The Office), Scott Porter (NBC's Friday Night Lights), Mike Vogel (Cloverfield), Michael Cassidy (CW's Privileged), Patrick Flueger (Brothers). They also wanted Garrett Hedlund (Tron Legacy), but he so far hasn’t made a test deal. The studio yesterday tested several candidates from this list. It's not surprising that the roster contains so many little known actors: Marvel after all cast a complete unknown as Thor, Chris Hemsworth. The role is enticing, but Marvel is known for driving hard bargains on its superhero deals. There's a salary scale, but if you're not a known quantity like Crawford or Krasinski, the offer is around $300,000 for the first film. And whoever gets the role will have to sign for another nine options for future films that include sequels, Avengers movies, or anything else Marvel decides. In fact, I’m told reliably that Captain America director Johnston recently reached an impasse with Marvel and briefly walked off the film when Marvel informed him the budget was too high and he’d have to take a pay cut. 
They found common ground and he returned to the fold, but it reinforces Marvel’s reputation for hard bargaining, something that all the Iron Man 2 participants discovered. For those not in the know, Captain America is Steve Rogers, a military service washout who volunteers for a top secret research project that turns him into the superhero dedicated to defending America's ideals. The sickly young man is enhanced to the peak of human potential by an experimental serum: he's known for using his signature vibranium-steel allow shield as a multipurpose weapon.
EXCLUSIVE: Who Will Be Captain America?
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the first thing they should do is rethink director choice. what tired, generic director. this will be a big budget programmer with joe johnston most likely serving as marvel’s bitch.
mj
You’re all crazy….
On Monday, I heard from someone in the industry that John Krasinsky was a more-than-legit candidate to play Captain America and, admittedly, I had to let the idea sink in.
I really like Krasinski. He’s a great-looking guy and has a lot of charisma, but I have only seen him do comedic work so far. But the more I thought about it, the more I liked the idea. In fact, I have started to love it.
Should look to josh holloway from lost
Krasinski? Is that a joke? Guy is totally soft.
Should be Ryan Reynolds. Or at least someone who isn’t a candy-ass.
Ryan Reynolds? Deadpool? Green Lantern? And Captain America? I dunno if that would work.
Ryan Reynolds is a Canadian. If they cast a Canadian as Captain America, something is seriously wrong in the world.
Reynolds? Are you kidding me???? He’s a girl’s guy. Just romantic movies.
TIM OLYPHANT.
A rare american male actor with balls.
Scott Porter is the only name on that list that doesn’t make me cringe for this film. I understand the logic in casting young, but give us a face that can actually instill great confidence in a goddamn army of men fighting for the fate of the world! Most of these guys look like backstreet boys!
I don’t think any of those guys on their wish list are good enough to be Capt America. They aren’t skilled actors who could pull it off. Someone like Josh Hartnett would be alot better.
John Krasinski?! What a joke!!!
This is the funniest thing John Krasinski has done all season!
Chace Crawford??? Captain West Hollywood?
Funny!
HOMOPHOBIC POST
I can only assume the inclusion of the name John Krasinski is a goddamn joke.
Ahh man! Nooooooooooooo! Noooooooo! Cap needs a real actor, not these walking talking clearasil ads!
Josh Lucas! Patrick Wilson! Chris Pine! McConaghey! Those should be your candidates! Another comic book movie bites the dust!
Actually, after seeing Reign of Fire…McConaghey should be at the top of that list… Plus he can hold an event film… He’s got the sparks for it.
Patrick Wilson would be good too.
No to Josh Lucas, no to Chris Pine.
Mac and Wilson would both be PRIMO.
Did you see Sahara? Mr. Abs could not help that film.
Jeremy Renner has proven he can be a non conventional soldier. I don’t want to try and type cast the guy, but having seen him act in a war movie I think he would be ideal. Scrawny Steve Rogers can be done with the right photography/fx combo, but he looks the part of a soldier and can certainly act.
Scott Porter would be perfect. His work on Friday Night Lights was excellent and I can buy him in the role.
Jim from the Office feels weird, unless they are making Captain America snarky in the script.
Chace Crawford is a void and the other actors don’t even register with me.
Porter is somewhat established, but still under the radar enough to be a refreshing choice here.
Hopefully, that Lautner kid doesn’t get involved. Can’t wait to see the studios all eat it on the megadeals he’s gotten off being a supporting character in a tween chick flick.
I actually think Zach Efron would be a great Captain America, but he’s probably too well known, i.e. expensive for Marvel.
Efron would also be a good Spider Man.
I was thumbing through some old issues of Spiderman drawn by “jazzy’ John Romita and y’know, you hit the nail right on the proverbial head! Zac Efron indeed looks a hell of a lot like John Romita’s Peter Parker!! He’s got the physique, he’s a great actor and would be spot on as good old Pete Parker/Spiderman!Quick–Sign’im up!
do you people work in hollywood? efron is signing an overdeal with warner. there is no chance in HELL he is playing a marvel superhero. none.
No. No. No no no no no. No. Don’t.
Efron is too cute to be Spidey. P. Parker was a total dork geek.
JOHN KRASINSKI?!!!!
Are you kidding me? I don’t know any of the other people on the “wish list”, but I hope they come up with something better than John Krasinski! And I do like Krasinski on The Office, but he’s not right for Captain America. It sounds even worse than when Tim Burton wanted Nicolas Cage as Superman!
And really Marvel, look at what a top star did for Iron Man! Without Robert Downey Jr. Iron Man wouldn’t have made more than $200 million!
I say, go after a great actor that will make you that extra $100 million.
Ok, I know it didn’t work for The Incredible Hulk with Edward Norton, but still, a good actor can make the $100 million difference.
Have they thought of maybe casting Robert Downey Jr. as Captain America? Hahaha…Just a joke.
I’d argue that Robert Downey Jr. was just as famous as John Krasinski prior to Iron Man’s opening. He was far more experienced, yes, but he’d never opened a blockbuster like he can now. Iron Man was a huge win for Marvel’s marketing, though Downey Jr.’s charm definitely plays into it in that they got to display that charm in all their trailers and commercials. He did a great job, but he wasn’t a famous name who could have half-assed it and still have had the movie open near as big as it did.
In summary… let Krasinski work out and give him a chance, I guess? It’s not like it’s physically impossible for him to abandon the sarcasm and smirk.
what is with the people who post on this site. downey jr was nominated for an OSCAR. krasinski in on a tv show critics like and no one watches. and his ability to open a film is zero.
RobM,
The thing is that everyone just knew Robert Downey Jr. was a great choice for Iron Man. We all know that Krasinski is a bad choice.
I remember before Iron Man opened, people were talking about how perfect Robert Downey Jr. was for the role of Iron Man. It certainly helped the opening and the great hold for the movie.
Even people that don’t usually go to “Comic Book Movies” went to see Iron Man because of Robert Downey Jr.
Now, I have to say that whoever they cast as Captain America, the movie will still do well. But why settle for “well” when you can get a great actor that would make the movie a major hit like Iron Man?
Just as famous? Is this putz really considered MORE famous than RDJ? Sad. BTW-it’s official, he has been cast as Captain America according to IMDB.
They should have brought back Matt Salinger. Kids will want to see the original Captain America.
Chace Crawford, John Krasinski and that guy from Cloverfield?
If they’re the best American actors Marvel could find to play CA I wish the had gone with foreign actors.
Totally unimpressive list.
What a terrible list. Might as well throw Michael Cera on the list if we’re going to disregard Captain America’s character to hire someone young and appealing.
dear god, not Krasinski.
Oh god, ALL of those potentials are awful, awful choices.
Yes, the article was about casting but so often the writers are never mentioned. The script was written by Markus and McFeely and I’ve heard they did a terrific job!
The reason the focus is on the actors not the writers is that the best writing in the world can’t save a production if you don’t get the right person for the role.
Consider:
Hamlet, starring Rip Taylor
Conan the Barbarian, starring Paul Reubens
Cleopatra, starring Rosie O’Donnell
Heard from who? I’ve read it. Basic. Just like their previous work on THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA: PRINCE CASPIAN. Didn’t know there was a bomb of a sequel to the first NARNIA flick? Exactly.
Chace Crawford? Really Marvel? They should go with a real actor like Ryan Gosling. He is 6′1 and can get into the shape required for the role. He can act and he isn’t too pretty.
Captain America needs to have a presence. Don’t see that with any of the people mentioned. I mean if you are going to go CW, at least get someone bigger like Jared Padalecki. In Friday The 13th, he was nearly taller than Jason.
I’m all for Marvel giving someone a shot at a blockbuster role. That’s the beauty of America and couldn’t be more appropriate for “Captain America”. Scott Porter would nail this role! The guy has range, experienced and is already in shape.
Let go of the old formula everyone and welcome the new. Hollywood is changing, deal with it.
The problem with Cap casting is that he’s actually a pretty smart fellow, dynamic leader, etc., so going “hunky” won’t be the way to go. I don’t think Kras would be right for it. I’m sure they’ll mess it up because that’s the Marvel Way. They can thank Favreau and Jr. for Iron Man, and look how Marvel almost destroyed that sequel.
I think I like the idea of Garret Hedlund been Captain America. All other actors on the list are just whatever.
the true real life captain america can be found here
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm2227414/
nice!
Shameless. Go back to your acting class in Ohio superstar.
at least he has a decent looking jaw. My first choice has always been Casper van Dien he has the perfect Captain America jawline, hands down.
I agree, he would be perfect for the part.
Please. Van Dien is like 5′8″. Who’s he gonna defend America against, the Lollipop Guild?
Perfect under the radar candidate – Ryan McPartlin, currently on the show “Chuck”:
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0574131/
6′3″, right age, and former Big 10 football player.
…but honestly, which studio doesn’t drive hard bargains for their tentpole movies? It’s the basic Disney Channel formula: we’ll pay you relatively little (and I say “relatively,” because I’m sure there are many people who would consider $300k for about 3 months’ work to be a pretty great payday) money, but in return, we’ll give you a huge platform from which to catapult your career.
Besides, it’s not like the actors won’t make tons of money from the sequels (unless you’re Terrence Howard and you foolishly think you can’t be replaced by Don Cheadle in a heartbeat).
And really, no one goes to see these films because they star Tobey Maguire, or Michael Keaton, or Ben Affleck, or Robert Downey – they’re going to see the films because of the concept, effects and story (and probably in that order).
Why is Captain A’s package, as it were, on this drawing so prodigious?
Would you want your country represented by someone who wasn’t packin’?
None of these Hollywood pretty boys will work. Look at who was a hit as a superhero: a mature Christian Bale and Robert Downey Jr. The latter, more impressive in my view (lacking “gritty” theatrics for the character).
The essence of Captain America is leadership. He’s the guy (like Superman in the DC universe) that the other superheros look up to and want to emulate, and who commands respect and authority.
The actor has to project toughness, determination, decency, and leadership. Gym toned six pack abs and blow dried hair does not make toughness. The very idea of Chace Crawford is a bad joke, for any role outside a tween and their moms fanbase.
Look at how badly Brandon Routh stunk up the Superman film. Having a sculpted body is not a substitute for a leading man presence.
This is Hollywood’s Achilles heel — they have no “young” versions of Kirk Douglas or Burt Lancaster.
dude. you’ve totally nailed it.
you mean like the draper actor from madman?
Amen. All we’ve got today are girly-boys. Where’s the next Bruce Willis, Stallone, or Eastwood? Men used to be cast for male positions. Now it’s Abercrombie models.
Who to play Captain America? That’s easy: CHUCK NORRIS!
I can’t believe I’m saying this….I agree with Whiskey (for once).
Don’t send a boy to do a man’s job.
American ideals? You mean like waterboarding, imperial warmongering, war profiteering, predatory capitalism, Congress in the pockets of lobbyists and special interests, and the Supreme Court saying it’s okay for corporations to buy elections? Are those things really worth fighting for? Maybe the plot of the movie could be that Captain America takes all that down and restores us to the rule of law.
Maybe you should write a super hero movie called “private progressive”…a self-loathing American who thinks every part of our history is a lie and is never ever happy and drives the bad guys crazy with his constant bitching and complaining about everything around you!In the end the bad guys kill themselves to stop the pain of listening to it!
That’s perfect actually.
So which part of the above posting was a lie by Captain Fun? Please do tell, Anon.
Perhaps Cap can also fight for the original spirit of the Constitution which limited who could vote in elections, said 5 black men were equal to 3 white men when determining representation, and turn a blind eye to the displacement of Native Americans.
The “American Way” has a not too pretty underbelly if you study history.
yeah unlike every other virtuous nation with a spotless past which you just forgot to mention…how odd
go on feeling sorry for yourself though, 90% of this tear-filled sentiment is always because the rest of the country doesn’t support the speaker’s dogmatic politics
Shut up u whiny bitch boy, if you don’t like it go to some other country and don’t knock mine. I’d rather have gray areas than be incinerated by terrorists. How bout China? I’m sure you could have tons of freedom of speech to post comments on blogs there.
Anyway… back on topic.
Chace Crawford could go Marvel one of these days if he mans up a bit more.
My pick for Captain America out of this list would def be John Krasinski. He’s in line with the off kilter Michael Keaton – Robert Downey – Tobey McGuire picks that have paid off well.
I wouldn’t think of this as right wing propaganda- Cap has OFTEN butted head with conservative views in the comics. (For a while after Watergate, he renounced his identity and called himself “Nomad”- and that recent kerfuffle about Cap and his sidekick dissing “teabaggers” is not without basis).Think of him as a JFK era Democrat- an ass-kicking war hero with socially moderate views.If done this way, the movie could really strike a chord with today’s audiences…
JFK would be rolling over in his grave about Democrats today and “progressives” should stop claiming him.
He’s what non-Bible belt, socially moderate, fiscally conservative, Republicans are today.
Nikke: PLEASE delete this clown. Can’t we save DH for the entertainment industry and not left wing, right wing or whatever wing – spewing politic-ism?
Since we’re on “politics”, I think our country should stop water boarding and start posting beheadings on jihadist websites. No one could criticize us for THAT!
You started the politicizing. I’d rather be wire tapped or water boarded then have my country bankrupted.
How about Ben McKenzie from “Southland?”
Captain America is blond.
And when you say Marvel is cheap, don’t you now mean…Disney?
I have no faith in Johnson after seeing THE WOLFMAN. You can’t blame a last minute start on such inept direction. How could a director screw up that foolproof haunted love story AND make a horror film (with the exceptional talents of Rick Baker and Dave Esley) that shows such little suspense and absolutely no sense of human character? Johnson is all surface detail and can’t seem to direct actors nor give them the proper motivation to their characters. A story and character adaptation from comic books like CAPTAIN AMERICA requires an exceptionally fine grasp of nuance and subtlety to overcome the broad strokes employed in comics while also supplying a measured rhythm to the escalating action and mayhem elements of the superhero/WWII genre.
I predict another mess of a film with scenes that too much reflect the two dimensional comic book page (as in slavish artifice) and not the thrilling spirit of a comic book story and its characters as elevated into a faithful but humanly-enlarged upon and entertaining movie form.
Couldn’t agree more… Those scenes Romanek didn’t want to cut are probably all character scenes too. Marvel/Disney need to keep these films in the hands of intelligent fans like John Favreau. It’s a shame to punish the fans with Joe Johnston.
Sony’s made a smart choice with Webb for a new Spiderman.
And, someone seriously needs to give Joss Whedon a franchise to work on… Drew Goddard and Matt Reeves worked out like Gangbusters for Cloverfield… And it’s that kind of vision that’s needed for Captain America, or Superman.
No one would represent the masculine and muscular qualities of Captain America than Liam Neeson … or possibly Queen Latifah.
thank you for making me stain myself (LOL)
The deals are much harsher than the average summer movie maybe but the long term career benefits and exposure from a successful Marvel movie is pretty much priceless! Plus I would imagine the payouts for the sequels would be much much bigger.
As for the choices none of the guys seem that exciting and I say that even as a Krasinki fan… Chris Hemsworth seemed a lot more on the money. Shame they ruled out Ryan McPartlin from Chuck he had the perfect look.
Joe Johnston walking off set – I would have thought after the headaches on Wolfman Cap would have been a walk in the park!!
i’m surprised Ryan McPartlin isn’t up in the running. he IS Captain Awesome, uh, America!
I like John Krasinski, but he’s certainly not the Captain America superhero type. Krasinski’s more suited for Tom Hanks/Jimmy Stewart type roles if he’s that interested in going mainstream.
The only real contender on this list to me is Scott Porter. I love Patrick Flueger — he’s definitely got the acting chops — but don’t really see him in the part. Garrett Hedlund is OK, but don’t really like him for the part at all. And John Krasinski — just no.
If you’re going to go CW, go with Jensen Ackles — he’s got the acting ability, the intensity and the looks. There was also talk of considering Mark Valley for the role at one time, but it looks like they are going younger with the role (maybe too young by the looks of this list).
I’ve been waiting to hear about this casting. I really hope they don’t screw it up.
Not sure about this list. I like Krasinski but not as Cap. Chace Crawford? Captain America is blond! I like the idea of going with a talented unknown but I was hoping it would be someone like Teddy Sears or Trevor Donovan.
I can totally see Trevor Donovan as Captain America. He’s a fresh face and fits the physical description I would imagine to a T
Oh, and I have to disagree with the idea that people don’t care who is cast in a role. They do care — they care a lot — and if the person is “not right”, then it hurts the whole production (when it is the lead) or is definitely noticed (when it is a supporting character).
The examples listed above — Michael Keaton, brought something completely new to the role of Batman and it was noticed; Ben Affleck unfortunately did not do that for Daredevil (sorry, Ben). It may not “make or break” the whole movie, but it can certainly cause some damage.
My top picks are still Scott Porter, Jensen Ackles and Patrick Flueger.
My first and only choice is Matt Damon. He’s got the look, the martial arts moves (see any Bourne movie) and he’s got the chin.
Matt Damon would be great!
Too bad Mark Valley is too old. Dude is perfect for it.
I agree, and I don’t think he is too old. Maybe too short. He is 5′11 and cap is 6′2, but they can do something about that. Robert Downey Jr is older that Tony Stark when he first became Iron Man and it didn’t seem to matter. Mark Valley looks like Cap. Every time I see him on Human Target I think, that IS Captain America
Must stunt cast Matt Salinger (yes, son of J.D.) and the original Captain America from the 1990 version somewhere in the re-boot!
Matt Salinger WASN’T the “original” Cap by any definition.Actually, that horrid ’90’s version was the THIRD live action take on the character (after a 1940’s serial and a 1970’s tv version). There’s no reason at all the new film should aknowledge it .
I really like Chace Crawford. Don’t get me wrong, i’d prefer Nathan Fillion, but I think Chace would do a fine job.
Krasinski?!? Baaahahaha, you’ve got to be fuc—wait. Yes. I hope this happens.
I’m shocked at the mid-20s actors considered for this. Cap is a seasoned soldier who is supposed to be wise. That said, I’d think the starting age would be 40, NOT 22. He leads The Avengers!! Like the others would listen to a young’un!
Maybe not 40 as the starting age but definitely someone in their 30’s. Tatum Channing as Captain America however he’s still got the stink from that G.I. Joe debaucle looming. I know he’s not older but he does have the jawline for the part.
Is it too late to scrap Chris Hemsworth as Thor? He is not the image of the Norse God that would come to mind. Maybe a gay Thor?
I would choose Mickey Rourke as Thor. Thor is not a handsome man, he’s a beast. Or even John Cena as Thor. Just don’t give him that many speaking parts and keep him looking like a badass!!! Also James Preston Rogers wouldn’t be bad either. I know he interviewed but I think they should give him a second look.
I always get confused with comments like yours about Hemsworth. “A gay Thor” – does that mean good looking? Handsome? You’re a closet case? It’s just a weird grammatical issue I need help with. Mickey Rourke isn’t gay because you don’t find him attractive? Meanwhile, how does John Cena look any different than a buff gay dude at LA Fitness? Totally weird, but seriously, explain so I’ll know.
ANOTHER HOMOPHOBIC POST
Read Steve’s origin story, dear. He’s twenty-five when the Avengers wake him up. He’s only 40ish in the current Marvel Comics because he’s been out of the ice for fifteen years.
Does it matter? It’s being directed by Joe Johnston – at best it’ll be tolerably mediocre. At worst, it’ll be The Wolfman.
Is that a joke? John Krasinski is a goddamn sad puppy. Cast a real man please.
The guy that needs to be Captain America is right here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jMhgVgCpolY
He’s a relative unknown, he’s signed on to two movies, one of which will get him more exposure before Cap comes out, and he actually fits the role – tall, blond, blue eyes and the right physique. Oh yeah, and he can act.
um…. NO
Note to producers: use the Marvel cartoon music in the movie prominently.
When captain America throws his mighty shield….
Terrible list. None of those actors are men.
A better list: Goslin, Lucas, Renner, Tom Hardy.
Does CaptA have to be a yank?
Could we please remember Joe Simon? Thank you.
What about John Cena? i mean i know he’s not a great actor but as far as looks go he could pull it off…i’d be nice to have a younger dennis quaid or mark wahlberg though
maybe Mark Valley…but how tall is he?
Is this serious? Cena? This is a joke right?
It should be Alexander Skarsgard. Good actor, good looking man and charismatic. If they can test Chace Crawford for freaking Captain America they sure can give the big Swede a chance.
The actor they cast to play Captain America needs to be able to stand side by side with Robert Downey Jr. in the Avengers cast and still be taken seriously. I don’t see anyone on the list that could really work. I’m really disappointed they’re going so young. If they were casting a little older, I’d say Mark Valley for sure.
Get Jensen Ackles as Cap and Jared Padalecki as Red Skull… and the whole movie is them driving around Germany in a jeep arguing and eating cheeseburgers.
Seriously this list of actors made me laugh.. I like Krasinski but he is NOT the right choice for this role., nor other actors!!! We are talking about Captain America here!!! Not Juno or Who Gives a Crap About the Morgans! I think this film needs to rely on some heavy acting. I don’t see any of these guys can nail the role. Jensen Ackles is the man for Captain America!!! If the actor is not right, the film is gonna flop!
Ahh, I remember reading Sam Hamm’s brilliant script for ‘Batman’ about two weeks before news broke that Tim Burton had cast Michael Keaton to play the character. I almost threw up in my mouth.
For months, I tried to tell myself “No, it will be okay. The script is soooo good. There’s no way Tim Burton could screw it up that much. I mean, Pee Wee’ Big Adventure wasn’t as funny as it should have been, and Beetlejuice was a structural mess, but this is Batman.” Until Star Wars came out, every boy wanted to be either Batman or Spider-Man. These were the two most popular “cool” superheroes. Superman is well-respected, but a boring personality, a “nice guy”.
Then the day came for the midnight opening in NYC. What a letdown. Even though the Anton Furst pre-suicide sets were beautiful, even though the Streets-Of-Fire-ripoff-what-year-is-it timeline worked out, you could not get past the obvious: Jack Nicholson was the only reason to see that film, and he’s not the main character. Sure, the villain has to be great, but the hero is the one you root for.
Michael Keaton was woefully miscast. Kim Basinger was weak. Tim Burton butchered a great script, the shot selection and framing were like watching the making of a film, or a commercial, rather than the film itself.
Watch that movie again. It’s extremely boring. There is almost no action. Batman’s head looks like a giant tulip bulb. But Jack clowns for the camera and everyone suddenly loves it.
That movie made so much money and validated Tim Burton’s woeful inexperience and hatred for archetypal heroes, as the work of a genius. Barf. Tim redeemed himself with his Depp films (Edward S. and Ed W.) but nothing made up for the fact that the hero was miscast and the director didn’t know what he was doing.
Everyone criticizes Joel Schumacher for ruining Batman. I have been a critic of Shoo-ma-shay since I was 15, and am the first to call him ‘hack’, but I thought his Batman films were at least fun and aware their own cartoonish silliness. Not so Burton’s version. Also, Kilmer and Clooney (and not the good Clooney, rather the head-bobbing mail-it-in Clooney) were far superior as Batman than Michael “Mr. Mom” Keaton. But those four movies all stink. I don’t pay ten bucks to see a “Joker” movie. I pay to see Batman.
Point being … if they miscast Steve/Cap … the movie is ruined. As a superhero fan, I don’t care how much money a movie makes. I want it to be good. This will be the third attempt at making a Captain America feature. The last one was a straight-to-video nightmare. I’d rather watch re-runs of the Reb Brown motorcycle helmet, love handles Cap, than see some pretty-boy tweener meat play Captain America.
Could we go back in time and get a young Peter Graves? He’d have been perfect.
I’m sorry but anyone who comes to bat for Shumacher over Burton needs to have their head examined.
What a retarded post. The Sam Hamm script was nothing short of awful. It had the same jokey tone as Superman: the Movie. Burton directed the hell out of that first Batman film. Easily one of the most iconic films made in the past 20 years. Keaton is probably still the best Batman too.
I agree, it’s a NO good actor list for Capt’n America.
Marvel must go with an older actor and more je ne sais quoi.
Try Anthony Michael Hall that’ll help him to rise as superstar.
He was also in Weird Science with Robert Downey JR.
And he looks kinda MCQueen dont you think?
Krasinksi? Only if they cast Rainn Wilson as Red Skull, and Captain America puts Skull’s favorite Swastika in a Jell-O mold in his desk drawer.
I’m a big comics fan and I’d say that Scott Porter is easily the best pick here. He looks the part and anyone who watches FNL can vouch for his acting chops.
I remember he was cast as Superman a few years back in George Miller’s aborted Justice League movie – hopefully this project actually gets made!. I saw him video of him talking about comics on Newsarama a few years back – he’s clearly a fan himself, which is an nice bonus.
The other picks are universally awful – Krasinski? got to be a joke. Why isnt Jensen Ackles even on the list? I still prefer Porter, but Ackles seems like the next-best choice.
Also it’s disappointing that the Disney deal has not loosened the purse-strings at Marvel. The tightfist attitude was understandable when the company had mortgaged its ownership of these characters on the success of these movies, but now that Disney is backing them up they have no excuses.
I hope Feige realises that you get what you pay for and the audience will react badly if they are given a shoddy product. They don’t need to look far to see the risks inherent in a half-assed approach to these movies – their partners at Fox have managed to mess up the X-Men franchise, which is a potential perpetual money making machine. That series is in a similar position that the Batman films were post-Schumacher – fans are deeply disillusioned and the next movie is going to have a monumental job overcoming all the bad buzz the last two rushed and badly conceived films generated.
Out of all the names that are provided to step into Captain America’s boots, the only one that makes sense to me is Scott Porter. More than anything else, its his looks as the rest of them may be hunks by today’s standards, but Captain America is supposed to be a pillar of strength that supports America, not a guy who stands there and looks good. Looking back at the original comics, Captain America was the quintessential American, like a football team captain who goes off to war to fight for his country. The only one among the group who comes close to that image of this buff, good looking hero is Scott Porter.
Now if they were still looking outside this current pool, I would suggest John Cena from The Marine as a candidate as he’s got the looks, physique and attitude that tells you he’s a fighter, not a mannequin or body builder who’s there to look good. Playing the part may be easy for him, as well as Scott Porter, but acting the part while not disapointing those who grew up with Captain America and have this vivid image in our head and expectations in our hearts is another thing entirely.
Wow, this is turning into a total clustfrak. So does this mean they haven’t tested, or have tested and ruled out Jensen Ackles, Ryan McPartlin, Chad Michael Murray, and Robert Buckley? Those were on the “short list” last week. A short list that seems to change every day. This is not a good sign because they’re supposed to start pre-production March 1.
Why can’t Marvel get this right? Who are these guys? Outside of John Krasinski who cares about these guys-and even JK is miscast.
Iron Man worked because of Favreau getting the material and the quality of actors. Great director, great cast, great movie. Same story obviously for Batman with Nolan and gang. This movie smells like a turd.
his wife was in The Wolfman with Johnston. getting your lady to get you roles, well played Halpert. well played.
I still say Matt Damon could tear it up as Cap. He’s definately got the action chops, and he’s a pretty fine actor as well. (Yes, he’d be old for a young Rogers volunteering, but they’re going to have to do some CGI work anyway, a la Tobey Maguire in the first Spider Man film).
i like porter, he would be perfect. Is it true ackles is frontrunner?
What is Stark Sands too busy on Broadway for the role. The perfect Cap would be Leonardo Dicaprio because Captain America is the leader of the Avengers, so you need a guy who can carry a film with Robert Downy, Jr and Sam Jackson. Can Chace Crawford fill that role? Nothing he has done so far can make you say Yes. If only Paul Walker could ditch his So-Cal accent, he would be the right choice (cheap and name recognition)
I thought Brad Pitt wanted this? Too old?
Very nice actors, all of them. However,I just don’t see a single one of them as Captain America. I’m gonna go out on a limb here…What I believe Marvel/CD’s will have to do is to actually screentest some actually, truly unknown talent. I mean, actors who’ve perhaps done background and not even done a soap role.
They’ll find the perfect actor for this role this way, perhaps someone who’s somewhat of a comic geek who knows the character, has the right look and will actually be a really fantastic actor. Sure, some will say it’s risky to hire an inexperienced actor, but the art of it is, it’ll be a first. A first that’ll work out. To TPTB, just think outside of the box a little bit on this one. You’ll be surprised at what you accomplish.
Sure, it’s an off the beaten path thing to do, but unconventional circumstances call for unconventional measures. I can hear the skeptics already complaining. However, in this case, the lack of experience would actually WORK in the actor’s favor in this role. After all, he’s playing an iconic character who starts off as a determined yet is physically unfit.
Once he undergoes the super soldier serum/vita-ray treatment, he’ll have all the parts in sync and yet, I see him as still a young guy who’ll be so in awe of his new physique and athletic prowess that he’ll have the whole “Gee whiz I didn’t know I could leap that high” thing going on with his personality…at least for a little while until he becomes used to his new abilities.
Also keep in mind…Cap is one big dude! He’s 6′2″, 240 lbs. of solid muscle! (Think “Arnold’s” size in his bodybuilding prime); He’s not just some slim, toned up acne medicine model. He’s got some bulk…some size, and I don’t mean hollywood’s really scaled down version of size. C’mon people! To TPTB, let’s do this right! Cap deserves it!
I totally agree going with more of an unknown makes sense.
Think everyone is thinking older because that’s how they read Captain America. If this is going into his origin, he was pretty young and weak at the time, born in 1917, only about 23 or 24 when he undergoes the transformation. Having not read the script, not sure how much takes place when he is older and how much takes place when he is younger. If it is all WWll then his character shouldn’t even break the age of 30.
Not sure who I would cast, but sadly most of the best actors I can think of are too old for the part. But like most, cannot possibly imagine John Krazinski in this role.
Anyone who watched The Middleman (all 5 of us) knows that Matt Keeslar should be on any shortlist for Captain America.
Joe Johnston also cast Bill Campbell in The Rocketeer. How great did that decision turn out to be … NOT.
These days, The Rocketeer is best remembered for Jennifer Connelly’s white dress and boobs, and not for its leading man.
U CANT SEE ME! JOHN CENA IS MY VOTE. There is no one more C.A. than him!
Yes if we were casting the WWE as superhero’s. However a role like Captain America will require some acting ability.
I’m assuming the script calls for a young man? Too bad. No young actor is going to have the assured masculinity that comes with age. Though some of the actors listed are talented, they’ll just look like doofs. It should be John Hamm, or Aaron Eckhart. Even Brad Pitt. Steve Rogers can be a boy, but Captain America is a man.
Aaron Eckhart would be perfect. Right age, good actor. Perfect!
Chris Klein. Remember him?
Devils advocate.
I just saw “Brief Interviews with Hideous Men” and Krasinski does a monologue at the end, it sound slike it came straight from the book, and thats NOT a compliment, but Krasinski delivers it with gravitas, pain, and wonder. He can act is what I’m saying, so don’t be so quick to pigeonhole him as “Jim Halpert”.
Is he my ideal Captain America? NO, but hes not a laughable choice and he’s better then some of the male models they’ve discussed.
My greatest wish is that Nathan Fillion were from the US so he could be up for the part since I think he’d kill it.
Aside from that I’d go with Jon Hamm, though he’s probably been written off as too old (though he’s 6 years younger then Downey). Still hes someone who can hold up the part and at the same time go toe to toe with Downey Jr. not a meaningless concern.
In the young, cheap, and I suppose hot department, Jenson Eckles seems to have sizable chops.
I just really want someone capable of leading the Avengers, not some pinup. Marvel was wrong on Thor (How do you NOT pick Alex Scarsgard?) and theyll probably be wrong on this.
RuPaul or Eddie Murphy would be excellent choices.
OK – So those are the pansies that will play Steve Rogers before the serum. Who is going to play him after he’s a big muscular superhero?
They should have had the sense to go with John Cera. Or any actor with some muscles.
Or are they just going to ‘reinvent’ the Captain as a small, thin gay guy who likes creamy chai lattes, and goes clothes shopping in his spare time.
John Cena – the only Captain America!!!
And he’s American
if they are going TV hunks then Trevor Donovan is the right guy. Just look at him! He’s Captain America
Scott Porter would be PERFECT. Not only does he have exactly the look and demeanor that the part needs, but anyone who has followed “Friday Night Lights” knows he has the chops to give the role real gravity.
Make this happen.
For Captain America, I like to see Bill Paxton (all buffed up) or the guy who was in eight is enough and then Bible Man (can’t remember his name)Chris odonell or even Ricky Shroeder (if that is how u spell his name) Buff them up!
WTF, They should definitely sign Jeremy Renner. He may be a little short, but he looks the part and the guy can act!
Everyone is deriding Krasinski and it only reminds me of the lashing Burton and WB got for Keaton as Batman, only to have the public turn on their criticism and embrace his performance. So, here’s a physically appropriate, talented actor with charisma to burn, exactly what a hero needs, yet people object. If casting goes the other way, we end up with someone like Tobey Maguire, and look how that went.
If we are going unknown with a good look and acting chops, my vote is for Mark Pellegrino from LOST (Joshua) & DEXTER.
Why not Paul Walker? He’s dead on Steve Rogers w/ blond wavy hair!!!
Cap needs to be played by a no-name actor.
Just like having a great actor did for the new James Bond, would do the same thing for the new Captain America. Cast RENNER!!
Wilson Bethel from True Blood and Generation Kill, HANDS DOWN!! he’s got the looks, the talent and the respect from the fanboys………..go ahead disagree with me, YOU’RE WRONG!
John Krasinski would be good if Captain America mutates and suddenly loses all of his muscle.
all these guys are wrong. here’s my short list:
paul walker (no, he is not too old!)
ryan phillippe (well, maybe as the villian. but he’d be cheap)
sam worthington (yes, i know he’s not american, but)
kellan lutz (if he lets the hair grow back on his chest)
kevin connolly (no, he’s not too short)
I’d heard a while ago that Tom Hanks was also being considered for the role ..? At this point, though, that thought is probably over and done with.
the bigger problem here is the stories i’ve heard about the direction johnston is pushing this…cap to be used in uso shows post-super serum to entertain troops because they don’t want to put him on the front lines? they’re so far off the origin it’s sounding like halle berry’s catwoman
you want to make this right? mix the old simon/kirby origin with the fabian nicieza/kevin maguire early 90s mini-series retelling, and mix that with the updated mark millar/bryan hitch origin from the ultimates and it’s a no brainer…hell, the first issue of the ultimates just screams to be put up on the big screen
as far as casting, as somebody stated above, there doesn’t seem to be anybody out there capable of pulling it off…for an origin you need to have the scrawny/sickly 4f steve rogers rejected for military service, asked to volunteer for the super soldier program, bulked up and trained to become the ultimate soldier, and then using all of this on the front lines as a one-man army who both leads and inspires the allies…matt damon might be the best choice
My vote goes to Cheyenne Jackson.
What about square-jawed action hero MARK VALLEY of “Human Target”? Or ALAN RITCHSON (Aquaman) of “Smallville” and “Blue Mountain State”?
I know he’s not an actor and he’s a bit older then the list but honestly I think UFC fighter Randy Couture would be perfect. He has the build, he has the face. True he’s going bald but they have hair pieces for that.
There is only one perfect choice for Captain America. And that’s Jon Hamm!
I’m going to vote for Jensen Ackles, as long as they are casting young. Why is he not on this list? Is Supernatural presenting a conflict?
Jensen is a talented actor, can bring the humor like few I’ve seen, has great all American looks, and is 6′1″ according to IMDB.
I’ve basically been in love with him since he revived Dark Angel. Although I refuse to watch Supernatural because that show casts TERRIBLE guest stars and I couldn’t take their crappy acting – then its been so longb I don’t know the story.
Channing Tatum would be a good match
I like this.. I could see this in a year or so… best suggestion in this discussion.
Johnston should keep on walking. “The Wolfman” was a useless film…
I had never heard of Jensen Ackles prior to this but there really is something about him.
Channing Tatum would have been good had he not gone ridiculously wrong with “Dear John” which was essentially an OK film, but was a romantic drama. Sure, it showed the man can act better than we thought (which was not much) but Channing Tatum should NOT be in a serious romantic drama, he is not that type. The film did a lot of good for Amanda Seyfried though. Well some win, some lose. The film did give him a tad more exposure, though.
Opinions are cheap, everyone has one. The worst thing Marvel can do – worse than casting a terrible actor – is letting fans participate in the decision making process. At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter who is cast, so long as Captain America is a white, English-speaking male. In contrary to what agents tell you, people don’t see superhero films to see their favourite stars. They see them to see their favourite comic vizualized in the most popular entertainment medium that is film.
Matt Keeslar would be perfect!
All you people are in for a surprise, boy o boy.
The reason Iron Man worked so well and is one of the BEST superhero movies is that they cast an actor who made the movie insanely interesting when he was OUT of costume. (Which was the problem with Spiderman, to me… Tobey Maguire—zzzzzzz) Christian Bale did almost as well. So you need someone with some personality FIRST. Then bulk him up to the max.
I love the Mark Valley idea, but he may be kind of old. It’s the best idea I’ve seen here. Sam Worthington might be great, but no one would let an Aussie play an American icon.
What, no John Barrowman? Aw man
How about…sorry cant get over Krasinski. Bahahahahahahahahahahaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa..ok.
NATHAN FILLION!!!
How has nobody mentioned him…? he would be extremely cheap, and perfect for the part