The Official Michael Shannon IS General Zod

[DorkyFresh]

now that we've got word that Ursa might be in the film, we have to assume Zod will be also...


...discuss Zod and who you'd like to see him played by.

[Kal-El.9859]

gee, I'm not really sure...someone who looks formidable for sure

[Micah12345]

I remember people suggesting butler, since snyder's worked with him, and he can get in excellent shape. He wouldn't be too bad.

[DorkyFresh]

personally, i'm tired of seeing everyone suggest Gerard Butler. he's such an obvious choice...be more creative with your choices people!!!

[Micah12345]

Hmmm...

Outside the box, outside the box, outside the box...

I can't think of anything but a box.

I'll come back later with some creative suggestions.

[craigdbfan]

I just don't want to see this again. :down

No time for other characters to get attention. Brainiac? I hope maybe he's included in it somehow also.

General Zod again would be another mistake IMO if it isn't incorporated with other characters in the mythos that haven't had the time to shine.

[Micah12345]

Yeah remember this is a goyer nolan script, and they always use multiple villains.

[KRIM]

To offer another perspective, I think the general audience will be happy to see semi-gods duking it out in the city of Metropolis. I doubt they even realize Zod was already in a movie.

[DorkyFresh]

i honestly wouldn't want to see Brainiac in the first movie...at least as the main villain. he's probably Superman's most dangerous foe, so they should save him for a potential sequel at the earliest.

[Micah12345]

Yeah, tell them, they'll probly say, 'oh, was that zod? I think I remember.'

[Paste Pot Pete]

Luthor will be in it, too. I'd bet my sweet tuchus.

[Micah12345]

yeah saving braniac for the second one would just make it more epic. if they included him in the first, they probly would've made him a kryptonian system like in STAS.

[Paste Pot Pete]

i honestly wouldn't want to see Brainiac in the first movie...at least as the main villain. he's probably Superman's most dangerous foe, so they should save him for a potential sequel at the earliest.

Singer said "save it for the sequel" too, and that turned out just fine...

[Micah12345]

I'm not a singer fan, his superhero movies are ashamed to be superhero movies. I'm glad we have this movie going on now. I can't imagine singer's braniac having been very epic or interesting either.

[DorkyFresh]

Singer said "save it for the sequel" too, and that turned out just fine...
erm...no, Singer said "i'm gonna take Donner's mythos and inject my own zany ideas into Superman's world"....only when it blew up in his face THEN he said "oh we were saving the action for the sequel!"

never put all your eggs in one basket.

[craigdbfan]

Singer said "save it for the sequel" too, and that turned out just fine...

Exactly.

This just takes us back into retread when Superman needs a daring villain that hasn't been explored. Don't give the audience another reason to reject it. There is reboot/remake fatigue out there so it might backfire.

We'll see. I'm not to particularly happy but we'll see as we learn more.

[Micah12345]

we'll probly see something like this:

http://bigeasycomics.com/images/APR070298Zod.jpg

[KRIM]

Singer said "save it for the sequel" too, and that turned out just fine...
Inconsequential as it was more than the villain that divided the fanbase. Not much loss for many that have seen that movie.

Zod's a great stepping stone. You don't sacrifice the action, yet you don't blow your load too early. Superman's rogues gallery isn't all that vast. I honestly feel like Braniac and maybe Darkseid are the pinnacle of what can be achieved. As such they do deserve to be the ones to end the franchise with the biggest bang possible. Having them start off the reboot would either diminish their full potential because of all the setup involved in a first film, or it would damper the chances of the sequel to one-up its predecessor.

[craigdbfan]

we'll probly see something like this:

http://bigeasycomics.com/images/APR070298Zod.jpg

God I hope not. Thats terrifyingly weak.

Is he a Russian ice skater? Is that what they were going for?

[DorkyFresh]

Exactly.

This just takes us back into retread when Superman needs a daring villain that hasn't been explored. Don't give the audience another reason to reject it. There is reboot/remake fatigue out there so it might backfire.

We'll see. I'm not to particularly happy but we'll see as we learn more.
thing is though, we're not the target audience (the general populace). the target audience most likely don't even remember General Zod from Superman 2. if they do then they barely remember...

[Paste Pot Pete]

erm...no, Singer said "i'm gonna take Donner's mythos and inject my own zany ideas into Superman's world"....only when it blew up in his face THEN he said "oh we were saving the action for the sequel!"

never put all your eggs in one basket.

My point is, I'm getting pretty tired of the "save it for the sequel" attitude. It's incredibly presumptious and often backfires.

"You'll see the REAL Galactus in the Silver Surfer spin-off." Yeah, how's that comin' along?

[Micah12345]

I wonder if they could do bizarro, metallo, doomsday, and battle suit lex in one movie. Have them be all attempts by luthor to take down supes.

[Micah12345]

We don't know that they have a save it for a sequel attitude. Look at batman begins, they chose the villains they thought were best for the story, and didn't pay attention to previous movies. I'm sure they were doing the same when writing this.

[DorkyFresh]

My point is, I'm getting pretty tired of the "save it for the sequel" attitude. It's incredibly presumptious and often backfires.
worked for Nolan's Batman. worked for Spider-Man 2. worked for Iron Man 2.

My point is, I'm getting pretty tired of the "save it for the sequel" attitude. It's incredibly presumptious and often backfires.

"You'll see the REAL Galactus in the Silver Surfer spin-off." Yeah, how's that comin' along?
just calm down. no one's saying we don't wanna see some awesome action. we're just saying that we want them to have some rich material for a possible sequel.

[Micah12345]

Still waiting on mandarin for iron man.

[Paste Pot Pete]

And this is all aside from the fact that Zod is just terribly boring from a visual standpoint, compared to most of Superman's rogues.

Unless Snyder uses the Russian's red mask and cape look, which is doubtful.

[Jake Cassidy]

Viggo Mortensen for Zod

[Micah12345]

I'm sure the fight scenes will make up for their appearance. I also have the suspicion there'll be more than just fist fights.

[Jake Cassidy]

We don't know that they have a save it for a sequel attitude. Look at batman begins, they chose the villains they thought were best for the story, and didn't pay attention to previous movies. I'm sure they were doing the same when writing this.

This. :yay:

[Micah12345]

Viggo Mortensen for Zod

Very interesting suggestion. Not really a fan of his whispery voice, but he does have the acting ability no question.

[DorkyFresh]

And this is all aside from the fact that Zod is just terribly boring from a visual standpoint, compared to most of Superman's rogues.

Unless Snyder uses the Russian's red mask and cape look, which is doubtful.
well who's to say they'll be limited by the comic visuals? of course you must make Superman look like Superman, but General Zod doesn't have a definitive look. i'm sure the concept artists will have a field day and go crazy with his duds. it just depends on the route Snyder wants to go with Zod's look.

if the rumor about Ursa is true, then it's pretty clear they've changed her into a blonde. it's pretty obvious to me they're not sticking to the previous films or comics as far as villain visuals are concerned.

[Paste Pot Pete]

worked for Nolan's Batman. worked for Spider-Man 2. worked for Iron Man 2.


just calm down. no one's saying we don't wanna see some awesome action. we're just saying that we want them to have some rich material for a possible sequel.

None of those felt compromised for the sake of sequels. You know the type of movie I'm talking about, the ones that pull their punches deliberately. See also: GI Joe: Rise of Cobra. Who cares about their rise? I just want to see Cobra Commander & Destro in full character; we may not even see a sequel.

I'm not saying this will be the case with Superman. Just that I hope it's not.

[DorkyFresh]

Viggo Mortensen for Zod
eh...don't really dig the choice but at least you didn't follow everyone and blurt out "GERARD BUTLER!!!"

[craigdbfan]

thing is though, we're not the target audience (the general populace). the target audience most likely don't even remember General Zod from Superman 2. if they do then they barely remember...

Yeah and Superman Returns wasn't received that well in terms of box office returns even though it wasn't a bad movie per say but not the movie to start a new SM trilogy.

So i'd say the GA and some of the fans are pretty much in line on this. I'm willing to bet if they had to pick between Zod and Brainiac or at least a movie including both which could work the would totally pick Brainiac or the latter. Brainiac might reveal himself more towards the end and escapes but Zod is defeated.

No reason the film can't have one large villain conspiring with Zod and gang and then realized they were being used by Brainiac as well or something along those lines.

Anyway we'll see as more news is revealed. Also to anyone saying (Not you Dorky) there should hold out on the action thats defintely not the way to go. This needs several more and the most any Superman movie has had. Using other Superman clones basically seems a little underwhelming. Another major flaw of Returns. The audience wants a fresh story with very good action sequences not several different moments of awe acts of Supes. No reason why both couldn't be combined with the level of VFX/CGI progression.

This WB last shot at keeping Superman right? Either go big or go home in this case. Just my two cents.

We'll see though as we learn more there's probably more to this anyway

[Micah12345]

I think it would be interesting if scientist/businessman lex luthor was partly responsible for defeating zod, and then maintains a distrust for the other alien, superman.

[KRIM]

None of those felt compromised for the sake of sequels. You know the type of movie I'm talking about, the ones that pull their punches deliberately. See also: GI Joe: Rise of Cobra. Who cares about their rise? I just want to see Cobra Commander & Destro in full character; we may not even see a sequel.

I'm not saying this will be the case with Superman. Just that I hope it's not.
I don't know man, the equation I'm seeing heavily suggests we're in for a treat. Superman versus Ursa, Non, and Zod in Metropolis, with all their powers coming into play. With SNYDER behind the camera? Gotta be honest with you, the potential there absolutely obliterates every known comic book action scene known to date. Put together.

Lex as the baddie would be cutting us short. I see this as a solid play at starting off the ground running, while still leaving plenty of fire for the end.

[Micah12345]

I don't know man, the equation I'm seeing heavily suggests we're in for a treat. Superman versus Ursa, Non, and Zod in Metropolis, with all their powers coming into play. With SNYDER behind the camera? Gotta be honest with you, the potential there absolutely obliterates every known comic book action scene known to date. Put together.

Totally, I'm already coming around to being excited by this news.

[Micah12345]

Maybe luthor attempts to clone superman in order to even the odds in his battle against zod, and we end up with bizarro.

[super-t]

Thats kinda how my trilogy would be...First movie lex makes metallo in attemping to out do superman, fails...next movie lex tries to clone him and it mutates into doomsday and they kill each other...last movie lex clones again with more advanced tech and gets it right, but then it decomposes and becomes bizarro.

[Jake Cassidy]

John Corben working for Lex. Gets injured along the way. Gets turned into Metallo by Lex. Gets sent to take out Superman and Zod because Zod doublecrosses Lex.

[flickchick85]

I know that a lot of people are disappointed, but as a non-comics reader not lamenting the villains we won't see (because I'm confident we'll see Brainiac in the sequel if not this one), I'm psyched at the prospect of a modern day non-Donner version of Zod. Well, I have to admit, I'm mainly just psyched that Supes could finally get into a Super-brawl with the villain.

I don't care if he's an easy pick, I still love the idea of Gerard Butler for the role. I think Viggo Mortensen could also be good, but he's about as likely to do it as Daniel Day-Lewis I'd imagine. And it's too bad Fassbender's Magneto (and I still want him to be Green Arrow), because he'd be excellent.

But you want some outside-the-box options? Here are a few (some more outside-the-box than others):

-Vincent Cassel (I wanted him for Brainiac, but someone else suggested he'd make a better Zod, and I liked the sound of it)

-Rufus Sewell (it would be Tristan + Isolde reunion! ;) But honestly, I think he'd be a bit boring)

-Sean Bean

-Kevin McKidd

-Javier Bardem

-Josh Brolin

-Eric Bana

-Jon Hamm (yep, you read that right. For the irony!)

-James Purefoy

I'm not particularly rooting for any of them, just throwing out names so we're not just debating "Butler vs. No Butler."

[Jake Cassidy]

Bana or McKidd would be awesome. Brolin would be a great Lex.

[Micah12345]

I like several of those names, but none of them just screams 'pick me I'm zod!'

[Octoberist]

Im a little dissapointed but at the same time, the prosepct of a new Superman movie is still exciting.

Again, it doesn't mean they won't suggestion other villains won't be in the mix.

[Saint]

Crap, crap, megacrap. There's so much Superman material to bring to the screen, I don't understand why they would choose to rehash one of the only two major villains that have already been done. It makes absolutely no sense.

It seems like, after Superman Returns, the very last thing they'd want to do is another rehash. Do something new, goddammit.

[Octoberist]

God, I hope that Zod and Ursa are prisoners of the evil..BRAINIAC! They'll be portrayed
as heroes and victims and then turn on Kal-el in the sequel!

[Ponyboy]

Ralph Fiennes.

[craigdbfan]

Crap, crap, megacrap. There's so much Superman material to bring to the screen, I don't understand why they would choose to rehash one of the only two major villains that have already been done. It makes absolutely no sense.

It seems like, after Superman Returns, the very last thing they'd want to do is another rehash. Do something new, goddammit.

Completely agree. :highfive:

God, I hope that Zod and Ursa are prisoners of the evil..BRAINIAC! They'll be portrayed
as heroes and victims and then turn on Kal-el in the sequel!

That's what I'm hoping the case is.

[flickchick85]

Ralph Fiennes was one of the first ones that came to mind for me as well, and he could've been great, but I think he's playing a villain a little too often these days (especially if he's doing so in the next Bond). :(

[Saint]

God, I hope that Zod and Ursa are prisoners of the evil..BRAINIAC! They'll be portrayed
as heroes and victims and then turn on Kal-el in the sequel!

If there was any justice in the world, they'd be citizens of Brainiac's captured Kandor.

I've decided I'm going to pretend this is the case, no matter how unlikely it is. Brainiac, shrunken city; that is a Superman movie I want to watch, goddammit.

[Octoberist]

I mean..Zack did deny that Zod would be in the film by stating "For now, it's just a rumor."

Whatever that means. I think either he's being truthful, lying, or didn't know how to respond to the rumor. Especially 'For Now'.

It depends how much power Zack has over the screenplay because there were rumors that David Goyer's script was a bit rough when Zack came on aboard. I mean, maybe he is changing it a bit. Who knows.

[Micah12345]

Of course he's lying, he's not gonna say OOPS YA GOT ME! LOL!

[Octoberist]

Well..ehhh...I'll support the movie anyway.

[WildcatNC]

I don't know man, the equation I'm seeing heavily suggests we're in for a treat. Superman versus Ursa, Non, and Zod in Metropolis, with all their powers coming into play. With SNYDER behind the camera? Gotta be honest with you, the potential there absolutely obliterates every known comic book action scene known to date. Put together.

Lex as the baddie would be cutting us short. I see this as a solid play at starting off the ground running, while still leaving plenty of fire for the end.


Have to admit, with Snyder at the helm it certainly could be absolutely EPIC.


What about Liam Neeson for Zod. He's tall, commanding with a powerful voice and a good actor.

Eric Bana?

Ciaran Hinds?

Thomas Jane?

Just throwing some names out there most might not think of that I think could pull it off, albeit with different styles of characters.

I'm also assuming someone a bit older than Cavill.

[craigdbfan]

If there was any justice in the world, they'd be citizens of Brainiac's captured Kandor.

I've decided I'm going to pretend this is the case, no matter how unlikely it is. Brainiac, shrunken city; that is a Superman movie I want to watch, goddammit.

Yeah that sounds a lot better.

[Octoberist]

I mean, it depends how they'll reintroduce these characters:

What worked for Superman 1 and 2 is the backstory of the Phantom Zone. The setup was fast and easy.

Here, I don't know if they'll go down that path. Again, I hope they're prisoners of Brainiac ala Kandor.

[Ponyboy]

It depends how much power Zack has over the screenplay because there were rumors that David Goyer's script was a bit rough when Zack came on aboard. I mean, maybe he is changing it a bit. Who knows.

Tends to depend on who the director is, and usually who the executive producers are

[craigdbfan]

I mean, it depends how they'll reintroduce these characters:

What worked for Superman 1 and 2 is the backstory of the Phantom Zone. The setup was fast and easy.

Here, I don't know if they'll go down that path. Again, I hope they're prisoners of Brainiac ala Kandor.

That I wouldn't mind at all. :up:

Totally up for that.

[Ponyboy]

What about Liam Neeson for Zod. He's tall, commanding with a powerful voice and a good actor.


I could see that. Could be interesting.

[Octoberist]

I'm sure he won't do it though.

[Saint]

I'm sure he won't do it though.

I don't know, Neeson seems pretty open to genre roles like that.

[Octoberist]

I'll admit. It'll be crazy if Goyer and Synder decides just to use Ursa, and no Zod...

[WildcatNC]

I'm sure he won't do it though.


If he was open to the crapfest that was Clash of the Titans then a Snyder/Nolan Superman lead role should be a no brainer for him if offered. Neeson was good in it though, I like him in just about everything hes done.

Anyone remember Darkman? haha

I caught it on the other day and had totally forgotten that was the first thing I had seen Neeson in. :awesome: The first thing I had remembered was Next of Kin, Then I saw Rob Roy after that I think.

[Octoberist]

Hopefully this Sunday, LA Times/Hero Complex will shed more light onto this..

[flickchick85]

IF they were going for more unknown names (which I highly doubt, but anyway..) -

Richard Armitage:

http://img87.imageshack.us/img87/4154/0001efey.png
http://img843.imageshack.us/img843/910/279032250adc068610e.jpg


Nikolaj Coster-Waldau (he was actually my pick for Thor way back when):

http://img573.imageshack.us/img573/9779/newamsterdamposter2.jpg
http://img843.imageshack.us/img843/5708/himmerlandnikolajcoster.jpg
http://img155.imageshack.us/img155/6866/nikolajcosterwaldau.jpg

[Willi Berg]

To go back over what else Zack said in the past about the Zod rumours:

When it comes to the rumor about General Zod appearing in this sequel, he replies with, "...just wrong. The Internet has no idea what's going on."

http://www.latinoreview.com/news/snyder-talks-about-superman-and-general-zod-11620

and this is from CHUD back in Oct. 2010:

Is Zod the villain? Heat Vision claimed it was, as did Latino Review. Interestingly, McWeeny talked to someone "close" to the production who also had General Zod on the brain: "The idea of Kryptonians as immigrants came up. Superman, raised as Clark Kent with a connection to American human culture, follows the rules of the country and the rules of the world not because he has to, but because he chooses to. But if a group of Kryptonians arrived on Earth, led, let's say, by General Zod, and they didn't feel any particular reason to follow anyone's rules or laws but their own, that might well allow a smart storyteller to put Superman/Clark in a position where he's serving as the enforcer for the ultimate case of illegal immigration of all time. And to complicate things emotionally, these are people from his planet, people who should be his family."

[Octoberist]

Richard Armitage will be busy with The Hobbit for the next 18 months.

[Kokomo29]

My choice for Zod is Michael Sheen. I think he could really bring a great quality to the role.

[Octoberist]

To go back over what else Zack said in the past about the Zod rumours:



http://www.latinoreview.com/news/snyder-talks-about-superman-and-general-zod-11620

and this is from CHUD back in Oct. 2010:

Yeah, the Zod rumors have been flip-flopping for the past few months. But I do have to say that Drew's track record has been sucking when it comes to news. He was the one that said that Bradley Cooper was going to be CAST as Green Lantern. I'm talking about CAST, not the leading candidate. Samething with Jackie Earle Haley as Sinestro.

Also, I remember Drew stating that the 'crew' member was just thinking out loud and had no idea what the Superman reboot is all about.

Not to mention that some sites are twisting Variety's words aroudn and are saying that Lois isn't in the movie.

[flickchick85]

Richard Armitage will be busy with The Hobbit for the next 18 months.
Interesting, I had no idea he was even in The Hobbit. I had zero interest in that project when it was first announced, but I'm liking the cast for it that I've heard about so far.

[Micah12345]

Absolutely not. No Liam Neeson. He's already Ra's Al Ghul. Unless you wouldn't mind if hathaway played both catwoman and lois.

[Micah12345]

IF they were going for more unknown names (which I highly doubt, but anyway..) -

Richard Armitage:





Nikolaj Coster-Waldau (he was actually my pick for Thor way back when):

http://img573.imageshack.us/img573/9779/newamsterdamposter2.jpg
http://img843.imageshack.us/img843/5708/himmerlandnikolajcoster.jpg
http://img155.imageshack.us/img155/6866/nikolajcosterwaldau.jpg

This guy is playing a major role in a game of thrones this april. He won't be unknown for long, and I'm betting he's a pretty great actor.

[Octoberist]

That's the other factor with Liam.

[Octoberist]

This guy is playing a major role in a game of thrones this april. He won't be unknown for long, and I'm betting he's a pretty great actor.

That and The Hobbit.

[Micah12345]

No, that's the other guy.

[Octoberist]

opps.

[Jake Cassidy]

I'll admit. It'll be crazy if Goyer and Synder decides just to use Ursa, and no Zod...

Ursa could be another Kryptonian survivor that Superman tries to help and she ends up turning on him. May be working with Brainiac. Who knows?

[flickchick85]

This guy is playing a major role in a game of thrones this april. He won't be unknown for long, and I'm betting he's a pretty great actor.
I know, I'm a little Game of Thrones-obsessed at the moment, which is why I thought of him. But I really liked him in his lead roles on that short-lived TV show New Amsterdam and Ron Moore's Virtuality movie/pilot thing. He was the hero in both of those, but I remember him being effectively-wicked in his smaller roles in a couple of other movies, and we know he's playing quite the shady character in Game of Thrones, so I could see him being a great Zod.

But as I said, I'm sure they'll go with a bigger name.

[7heBoss]

I don't like the idea of Butler as Zod. I always imagined Zod being smaller than Superman. He is the Leader of his little pack not because of his physical size and strength but because he is an intelligent cunning leader and a very skilled soldier

[Jake Cassidy]

Jon Hamm would be interesting.

[BH/HHH]

I'd have said BS on Ursa but with it been Latino Review I believe it they're usually pretty spot on.

I for one would be glad to see General Zod in the film, remember Snyder never denied it he said the rumours are rumours. To be honest I don't think he'll be the villain I really think he'll be seen in flashbacks.

[Micah12345]

If Jon Hamm is in it, he's gotta be luthor. Too good of an opportunity to pass up.

[Jake Cassidy]

I'd be happy with Hamm as Zod or Luthor. Preferably Luthor.

[BH/HHH]

yeah Jon Hamm would work as Luthor but would he be willing to shave his head

[Jake Cassidy]

I think he would.



I don't care if he's in X-Men, Michael Fassbender would be an amazing Zod.

[BH/HHH]

I think he would.



I don't care if he's in X-Men, Michael Fassbender would be an amazing Zod.

That for me counts him out though.

Tbh I'm on the Gerard Butler for Zod team.

[Micah12345]

As long as WB's and Marvel Studios' actors don't mix, I'm good. As for sony and fox's superhero movies...

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u233/jacobiztehroxor/hoot.jpg

[flickchick85]

As I said earlier, I think Fassbender would ROCK it. But that would almost certainly rule him out as a Green Arrow candidate, and I'm not ready to let go of that dream yet. :D

[Jake Cassidy]

Yeah. I forgot about Green Arrow.

Besides, he was in Jonah Hex. He's crossed over before.

[Rust]

Damn, hate rumors. Hate to discuss something that's likely nothing.
I'll really have to wait until we have solid or offcial news regarding casting and rumors. Otherwise I'll get old really quick here.

[sf2]

i say NO to general Zod. period.

[GreenKToo]

My initial reaction to the thought of Ursa ( and maybe Zod ) as villains, was not good...I'll keep an open mind tho. It Could be Ursa and Doomsday for all we know.
As for the casting of Zod, since he is a general, I see him as late 30's to mid 40's or there about.
Russell Crowe.
Clive Owen.
Eric Bana.
Sean Bean

[BH/HHH]

My initial reaction to the thought of Ursa ( and maybe Zod ) as villains, was not good...I'll keep an open mind tho. It Could be Ursa and Doomsday for all we know.
As for the casting of Zod, since he is a general, I see him as late 30's to mid 40's or there about.
Russell Crowe.
Clive Owen.
Eric Bana.
Sean Bean

They might not be the villains for all we know could be flashback to Krypton stuff. This film evidently sets up a huge Kryptonian mythology.

[Puckenstein]

My outside-if-the-box choice would be Caviezel, but instead if Butler, what about another Snyder alum?

http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b57/Puckenstein/bd88a9dc.jpg

[JStorm]

Ursa or Zod. Lame.

[Lencho01]

I was thinking that it'd be cool if they could get someone who looks like a young Ian McShane. That 300 look of Dominic West fits.

[Wilde]

Rufus Sewell:

http://img27.imageshack.us/img27/6445/zod2b.jpg

He was suggested back in the SR sequel days, but I still think he'd be a good choice.

[Kal-El.9859]

Rufus Sewell:

http://img27.imageshack.us/img27/6445/zod2b.jpg

He was suggested back in the SR sequel days, but I still think he'd be a good choice.

I like it...him and his lazy eye!

[Llama_Shepherd]

So is this a general Zod thread or are we looking for anything in particular. :D

[Rust]

I like it...him and his lazy eye!


Yeah, that eye wouldnt work for Zod though. Makes him look... well, lazy like you said. And unfocused. Also slightly... off.

Good actor though.

[Kal-El.9859]

Yeah, that eye wouldnt work for Zod though. Makes him look... well, lazy like you said. And unfocused. Also slightly... off.

Good actor though.

he is pretty good...but yeah, when I watch his movies I pay more attention to his eye than him. That Kim Basinger film he was in where he played a Satanist was decent but I couldn't enjoy it because I was never sure which eye to look into!

[Eddie Dean]

My outside-if-the-box choice would be Caviezel, but instead if Butler, what about another Snyder alum?

http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b57/Puckenstein/bd88a9dc.jpg
I would love this. His wonderfully hammy performance in Centurion is just what Zod needs.

[green]

Zod huh? Hmmm, well if Snyder alums are going to be mentioned...he was rumored to be auditioning.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v662/markofort/watchmen_JH_Watchmen_15.jpg

[BH/HHH]

Matthew Goode as Zod would be awesome :up:

[Lencho01]

I could see Goode getting the role.

[BH/HHH]

I could see Goode getting the role.

Yeah often directors pick the second choices for the main part for the villain :up:

[FlawlessVictory]

I prefer Goode for Brainiac.

[Lencho01]

Yeah often directors pick the second choices for the main part for the villain :up:

And it could be Snyder's way of saying sorry. Wasn't there some other film Goode was pursuing, but stopped thinking he'd get Superman?

[KyleDW2]

*Various whinings about Zod being in the film instead of a new and visually interesting villain*

Good. Thank you Superherohype. Glad I wasn't needed.

But for serious, as much as I trust Nolan in his bringing this script up in the first place, as much as I trust Goyer to continue his track record of writing DC movies that I enjoy, as much as I trust Zack Snyder to make a kick ass action movie...Zod? Really? The least visually interesting Superman villain there is? At least Lex could have his gigantic green battle suit. Hell, Mr. Mxyzptlk is a living cartoon character. That would be more interesting than Zod. We need visually interesting. We need a character that just reaches out and grabs the viewer from the very first trailer. I just don't think Zod is it. Plus, like many complaints about Superman Returns, we've seen Zod before! Give us something new dammit!

Oh, and...

modern day non-Donner version of Zod.

Looks like somebody doesn't read the comics. The modern comics love to reference Donner's continuity at every opportunity possible.

[green]

And it could be Snyder's way of saying sorry. Wasn't there some other film Goode was pursuing, but stopped thinking he'd get Superman?

I believe it was Abe Lincoln : Vampire Hunter...or something like that.

[Lencho01]

Thanks.

[Frodo]

I actually think Goode would make an excellent , youthful Jor El . Who knows , he may get it given that he was the runner up. It does make me wonder if Synder's old buddy Butler is gonna play Zod.

[green]

You're welcome.


I really dont have much of a problem with Zod, Ursa and Non, if that's the way it goes. Yeah, if we are going to deal with Kryptonian background Id much prefer it to be Braniac but that to me would be a big sci-fi, outer space movie and frankly they are doing that with Green Lantern and besides shouldnt the first movie really be about Superman and Earth?
These three could definately give Superman a multi-continent beat down, while providing some good backstory.

[Rust]

Joseph Fiennes for ZOD.


http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3342/3512903268_79c7f02421.jpg
http://www.celebs101.com/gallery/Joseph_Fiennes/212745/Joseph_Fiennes_9.jpg


Or Luthor.

[FilmNerdJamie]

Always seen Eric Bana myself.

[batlovescatDC]

Not sure how I feel about General Zod all over again... if he's not the ONLY villain, and someone like Brainiac is involved then I'm happy. But if Zod is the sole villain for the movie than I'm gonna be sorely disappointed I feel. But maybe not, we'll see.


What about Eric Bana for Zod? He did an awesome job as Nero in Star Trek. (lol, FilmNerdJamie beat me to it.)


But a couple other ideas:

Clive Owen
Guy Pearce

[green]

Someone needs to pull out one of those old Jude Law as Zod manips.

[Rust]

If it wasn't for Superman II and the fact that it would feel like yet another tribute to Donner, I think Zod and co would kick ass onscreen today. There would definitely be potential for some EPIC brawling and fullblown display of Kryptonian powers.
ZOD the strategist played by Fiennes, URSA the sadistic played by Diane Kruger and NON the destroyer played by Nathan Jones.
Could work, but they would definitely have to pave the way for Brainiac who's forthcoming ends the movie.

[birdgirl]

Tudors redux and cast Jonathan Rhys Meyers???

[Doctor Jones]

I personally don't mind Zod being in it. It could provide for a great film. Plus it could be fresher than we think. Other than Stamp's presence, they were lame. I'm sorry, but the second film wasn't all that great.

All that "What is this Earth?" **** wasn't amusing and it was cheesy. The fighting sucked and it was just lame.

Snyder could do something very cool here. We don't know yet. When this reboot was announced, they said it would tap into Krytonian mythology no? Zod is from Krypton and this could very well be based on Birthright in some way, which did explore that.

If we get Africa, then him coming back to Smallville and then into Metropolis, find some way to fit Zod in and about Clark's background, imagine Snyder's visual style applied to all this and it could be great.

[bgshw44]

if zod is in it, it has to be a big name actor with a screen presence

[Rust]

Yep, it's very likely we're getting at least Ursa. Maybe the whole trio, but Ursa might be alot more in focus in this version.

Anyways, I think this scenario is more probable than introducing Brainiac already. He's quite a heavy foe to bring in this early in the game. They might actually save him for later after all.

[GreenKToo]

My initial reaction to the thought of Ursa ( and maybe Zod ) as villains, was not good...I'll keep an open mind tho. It Could be Ursa and Doomsday for all we know.
As for the casting of Zod, since he is a general, I see him as late 30's to mid 40's or there about.
Russell Crowe.
Clive Owen.
Eric Bana.
Sean Bean

Always seen Eric Bana myself.

Not sure how I feel about General Zod all over again... if he's not the ONLY villain, and someone like Brainiac is involved then I'm happy. But if Zod is the sole villain for the movie than I'm gonna be sorely disappointed I feel. But maybe not, we'll see.


What about Eric Bana for Zod? He did an awesome job as Nero in Star Trek. (lol, FilmNerdJamie beat me to it.)


But a couple other ideas:

Clive Owen
Guy Pearce
:cwink:

[the amazing fro]

I don't like it (especially if Zod is the only villian) but I will be able to bear it as long as he says

http://img189.imageshack.us/img189/7900/20101102202729kneelbefo.jpg (http://img189.imageshack.us/i/20101102202729kneelbefo.jpg/)




:oldrazz:
Though whats the point of doing zod if he doesn't say it?
I joke I joke

[I Am Jack's...]

I like the idea of Jude Law as Zod myself, not sure how popular a choice he is with fans though. But I like him.

Eric Bana would be really good too.

[Mastodon123]

Karl Urban?

[Kal-El.9859]

Judge Dredd

[Mastodon123]

Judge Dredd

So? By the the new Superman starts filming he'll be done with Dredd.

[flickchick85]

:cwink:

If you REALLY wanna play that game, GreenK...


-Sean Bean

-Eric Bana

-Jon Hamm (yep, you read that right. For the irony!)

-James Purefoy

Eric Bana?

Russell Crowe.
Clive Owen.
Eric Bana.
Sean Bean
Always seen Eric Bana myself.
What about Eric Bana for Zod? He did an awesome job as Nero in Star Trek. (lol, FilmNerdJamie beat me to it.)

:awesome:

[Kal-El.9859]

Would Urban want to be attached to multiple franchises though?? I mean Star Trek is getting a sequel, if Dredd does well enough it will get a sequel...and then Superman....he'd be REALLY busy

[Tra-El]

If Zod is going to be in it, then I'm hoping for 2, 3 villains. I love the idea of Zod, just not for a first film. I would like to see Bizzaro or the Parasite for a franchise start-off. Braniac is a being that SHOULD be saved for more of an epic-event, not a re-introducing so I think a Superman VS a Bizzaro Superman could very well be an exciting marketable ploy to start is off.

[WildcatNC]

Rufus Sewell:

http://img27.imageshack.us/img27/6445/zod2b.jpg

He was suggested back in the SR sequel days, but I still think he'd be a good choice.


Your right, he would be perfect.

[Project862006]

I dont know if zod will be in it now a recent tweet from latino review in reply to someone who said he wants new villain and he said dont worry you will get your wish ursa is not the only villain.

http://mobile.twitter.com/elmayimbe/status/34000380488581120

[BH/HHH]

I dont know if zod will be in it now a recent tweet from latino review in reply to someone who said he wants new villain and he said dont worry you will get your wish ursa is not the only villain.

http://mobile.twitter.com/elmayimbe/status/34000380488581120

What the hell is going on? ha ha :D

[Micah12345]

he probly means zod and luthor

[BH/HHH]

I'm honestly fine with Zod aslong as we get a massive smackdown in Metropolis.

[craigdbfan]

I'm sort of not man to be honest. I mean I like both the characters don't get me wrong.

But I don't think its the right move to retread for a last attempt at saving a franchise. I don't know why they would do this after Superman Returns, I actually really like the movie but it was defintely not the movie to start up a more or less dead franchise.

Now we are going to just get an interpretation of Zod and the other Kryptonians? Doesn't seem like that right move, again I hope Brainiac is somehow the one conspiring against all of them including Kal-El.

Thats the necessary element and I hope thats what made WB accept Nolan's pitch.

[KRIM]

But I don't think its the right move to retread for a last attempt at saving a franchise. I don't know why they would do this after Superman Returns, I actually really like the movie but it was defintely not the movie to start up a more or less dead franchise.
Right move for who? To a a very large portion of the audience that's coming to see this movie, it'll be totally new for them. Not since Matrix Revolutions and Hancock have they come across a film featuring flying heroes with superstrength (and other powers), going toe-to-toe. I don't even think it's been taking full advantage of.

I can see why it's disappointing for Superman fans, but the best move that could have been taken with this film was to ensure the spectacle is high enough that people will be thoroughly entertained. That's where this is heading.

[rdh007]

Gerard Butler would be a great choice for Zod to my mind. With his relatively imposing presence (physically) to Superman, I might think about losing Non (who was played for laughs a lot anyway) and having it be Zod and Ursa. Though I might introduce Luthor and Lois late in the game with Luthor being a relatively benign (but clearly not entirely good) presence in this movie. I'm thinking he runs a fairly small Lexcorp that is trying to take over the Daily Planet and Lois is of course upset about it.

[craigdbfan]

Right move for who? To a a very large portion of the audience that's coming to see this movie, it'll be totally new for them. Not since Matrix Revolutions and Hancock have they come across a film featuring flying heroes with superstrength (and other powers), going toe-to-toe. I don't even think it's been taking full advantage of.

I can see why it's disappointing for Superman fans, but the best move that could have been taken with this film was to ensure the spectacle is high enough that people will be thoroughly entertained. That's where this is heading.

This is a case of really taking the GA for granted. Superman Returns was a retread of the Donner films and it didn't perform well at the box office. As you said they are the ones who influence how much money rolls in and guess what it didn't.

Now your meaning to tell me if they just go back and do a reboot based on Superman II slightly that'd be the courageous move to save a franchise from lawsuit hell?

Again I think there is more to the story and Latino Review has been in a real downward slope in terms of info. Maybe they're right but I don't think it will only be the Kryptonians and Lex Luthor.

God it feels like I'm stuck in a damn time pause if that turns out to be the case.

[KRIM]

The retread was disappointing, but I'd hardly consider it the downfall of SR. There were far more severe issues surrounding the project that ultimately turned people off. Happening to have multiple parallels to a 30 year old is trivial, I think. Donner's films weren't relevant to the modern era so I doubt they even saw the connection. It was just boring.

To the better part of the past 2 generations Zod is a completely new threat. Again, I think with Snyder at the helm we are completely fine in terms of entertainment. Ultimately that is what everyone is looking for in a Superman movie. I'd welcome new villains, though. For sure.

[Octoberist]

I dont know if zod will be in it now a recent tweet from latino review in reply to someone who said he wants new villain and he said dont worry you will get your wish ursa is not the only villain.

http://mobile.twitter.com/elmayimbe/status/34000380488581120

Just in case, here's the original tweet that prompted El May's response:

@elmayimbe (http://mobile.twitter.com/elmayimbe) The feeling is mutual -- though, as a Superman fan, I am still hoping that somehow you're wrong and we see a new villain ;)

http://mobile.twitter.com/silaslesnick/status/33999574859255809 It's kinda hard to tell. This may not mean anything or a total misunderstanding on El May's part (probably missed the word 'new') but we'll see. I hope we get something new.

It's possible that we're getting a side villain that we don't know of, that's not tied in to Ursa's camp?

[flickchick85]

Yeah, that exchange definitely gives me hope for Brainiac's involvement, because El Mayimbe does seem to be suggesting that there is a NEW villain as well.

[dark_b]

in a way i would be happy for ZOD so that i can enjoy the hypocricy from a lot of SHH members here.

in SR we complained that they used LL again with a similar plan like in the Donner's movie.

if we now again get ZOD its nothing new. yes the story will be different. but its 2010 and we have the technology for a new and unique villain.

[Octoberist]

2011?

[SuperDaniel]

Its possible we`ll see Zod, Ursa and Doomsday or Brainiac...

[Octoberist]

To be honest, I think people NOT wanting Zod is somewhat valid because I belong to that group. But I wouldn't be heartbroken if he was the main baddie, you know, but it WOULD be nice to see Superman's other villains. I mean, because the public is kinda used to Lex Luthor (and Zod to a degree) and to their perspective, it makes Superman's rogue gallery look quite limited when it's clearly not..

[Octoberist]

Its possible we`ll see Zod, Ursa and Doomsday or Brainiac...

That's what I'm hoping for: Zod and Ursa (who needs Non if Zod and Ursa are already super strong? :p) are unknowingly pawns of a bigger villain..

[craigdbfan]

Thats what I'm hoping out for Octoberist. I basically want Brainiac pulling all the strings to the point of even giving Zod misinformation and completely twisting and changing certain events that took place in Krypton before it went and maybe confusing Superman as well causing him to just further Brainiacs plan to take over Earth or whatever starting with Metropolis.

It would be a little sad seeing three of the last species of a dead planet fighting due to being completely manipulated/duped by a being that had knowledge of Kryptons destruction and just held out. If thats the angle they are going for which I really hope they are I'll be really happy.

Zod, Ursa, Brainiac and Lex involved somehow. That would be good.

[Octoberist]

That way, Zod is more flawed than we are to believed, being misguided and such.

[craigdbfan]

Exactly.

I think that would even make Zod a better character instead of just making both Ursa and Zod completely evil.

Zod and Superman maybe team up against Brainiac near the end and share a Boromir/Aragorn moment, that would be beyond awesome. I really think it would strengthen the character as a whole and make Brainiac that more villainous and would set up the sequel quite nicely.

[Saint]

Right move for who? To a a very large portion of the audience that's coming to see this movie, it'll be totally new for them. Not since Matrix Revolutions and Hancock have they come across a film featuring flying heroes with superstrength (and other powers), going toe-to-toe. I don't even think it's been taking full advantage of.

I can see why it's disappointing for Superman fans, but the best move that could have been taken with this film was to ensure the spectacle is high enough that people will be thoroughly entertained. That's where this is heading.

That doesn't really say much, though, since they would have been just as thoroughly entertained by a film with some other villain, too. "Spectacle" is the one thing most significant Superman villains (even Luthor, if he isn't the Amazing Real Estate Man) can be leveraged to deliver.

I guess the "Well, this will be great for other people" perspective doesn't really help me. It's not like it's going to kill the movie, but (supposing it's true) it's a weak, safe decision, and that's a huge disappointment for me personally. There was enough weak safeness in Superman Returns for a lifetime, and the fact that the bro in the seat next to me is going to be totally stoked doesn't really soften the blow.

[Octoberist]

Even if they revealed that Brainiac was behind it all in the last 5 minutes (plus a cameo), I would be okay with it. (Though I would like a bigger part for good ole Brainy.)

[dark_b]

Braniac needs to happen. this is our last chance.

[Octoberist]

I guess after these false starts and failed attempts, yeah, I wanna see Brainiac pronto.

[craigdbfan]

The idea of just "settling" and hoping for next time though man isn't cutting it this time.

Especially when this is such an important movie for WB if they care to hold on to the filming rights.

Like Saint so nicely put it, going "safe" to a fault is not the right move to "rejuvenate" a limping beast. How many times will we have to say "Oh well there's always next time".

I'd feel really bad for the hardcore Superman fans because IMO he has some of the best villains out there. Such a shame that I can count all the villains used in the SM movies in one hand.

I mean that really shouldn't be the case at all. If there was a time to be courageous and give other capable villains the spotlight this would be it Warner Brothers.

[craigdbfan]

double post.

[SuperDaniel]

Me too...I think Superman deserves Braniac, but if its Zod, ill be fine with it cause it could lead to some very interesting things besides that "keel before me" crap...It will be hell on Earth. Heck, Earth-One had to invent a cheesy villain to do a Kryptonian invasion. Id rather they just use Zod. Brainiac would be cool to see in the sequel and I hope the thrid movie ends with Darkseid. He is a must in a Superman movie!

And to be honest, all the Superman villains used in the films have been terribly used or really cheesy, imo.

[BigThor]

I guess after these false starts and failed attempts, yeah, I wanna see Brainiac pronto.

I agree, Brianiac is a MUST in my opionion I can't stand it any longer. I also think that Darkseid must be used in a potention second or third film (doesn't matter which).

[KRIM]

That doesn't really say much, though, since they would have been just as thoroughly entertained by a film with some other villain, too. "Spectacle" is the one thing most significant Superman villains (even Luthor, if he isn't the Amazing Real Estate Man) can be leveraged to deliver.

I guess the "Well, this will be great for other people" perspective doesn't really help me. It's not like it's going to kill the movie, but (supposing it's true) it's a weak, safe decision, and that's a huge disappointment for me personally. There was enough weak safeness in Superman Returns for a lifetime, and the fact that the bro in the seat next to me is going to be totally stoked doesn't really soften the blow.
Who would you have liked to start off the series? I only ask because I personally would have always preferred to save Braniac, Metallo, and Darkseid for when the story had been developed enough to introduce them properly. Utterly presumptuous, but I do like to keep mindful of the future.

I've only seen Superman II once and it never resonated with me as something beyond a good movie made over twenty years ago. Smallville heavily featured Zod and while I liked the actor well enough, he didn't do anything that would spoil my fun for a big-screen adaptation. I can only consider myself a casual Superman fan that's desperately wanting to be a hardcore one. I've never been enthralled with any of the live-action Superman projects so for me it's basically a clean slate. The attachment to these characters are far stronger for more devout fans which I'm sure is the root of the disappointment. I'm just excited with the prospects of a superhuman battle royale done right. Regardless of the characters being utilized, that to me is new territory that I don't mind at all being explored.

[BH/HHH]

The thing is we don't know yet even if Ursa is gonna be in the film, we are just thinking if Ursa's in it then so is General Zod it may not be that way. Personally I think Ursa will be seen in flashbacks with Brainiac as the villain.

[BigThor]

I just thought of something

What if Metallo appears as a villain in Superman: Man of Steel, but he's really being manipulated by Brainiac who is the main villain (Metallo is a machine after all). I don't know why that angle hasn't been played up more, Metallo & Brainiac are two of of my favorite Superman villains and they each bring something different to the table.

[Llama_Shepherd]

I was Reeeeeallly hoping for a damaged Brainiac as the villain, manipulating Luthor. During the course of the movie Lex would release a Metallo unit to fight Superman as a test body for Brainiac. That way Metallo can be in the second film for real. But I'm cool with Zod.

[BigThor]

I was Reeeeeallly hoping for a damaged Brainiac as the villain, manipulating Luthor. During the course of the movie Lex would release a Metallo unit to fight Superman as a test body for Brainiac. That way Metallo can be in the second film for real. But I'm cool with Zod.

That could really work :)

I'm NOT cool with Zod :(

[Saint]

Who would you have liked to start off the series? I only ask because I personally would have always preferred to save Braniac, Metallo, and Darkseid for when the story had been developed enough to introduce them properly. Utterly presumptuous, but I do like to keep mindful of the future.
That really depends on whether it picks up on an established Superman or deals with the origin. For an established Superman, I think Brainiac is the way to go. Go all out; outer space, science fiction, Superman versus the ultimate alien invasion--blow away everybody out there that has seen the previous movies and thinks they know what Superman is all about. Show them that it's not all Phantom Zones and Kryptonians and Lex Luthor land-grabs. When I think of a movie with Brainiac, well, the movie I'm thinking of has never been done, anywhere. Do it! Blow people away.

If it's an origin movie, that's different. Birthright, my favourite origin, didn't have a villain. Probably a bad idea for film. Metallo doesn't interest me much, but in Secret Origin he was Superman's first villain, and his first encounter with kryptonite--which I think has some life in it, with some clever writing.

In any case, I don't think they should be pulling their punches at this stage. The "save it for later" approach does, sometimes, make sense--but between half a dozen false starts and then a film that fizzled, I don't think it's wise at this stage. I think they need to pull it all out.

I've only seen Superman II once and it never resonated with me as something beyond a good movie made over twenty years ago.Smallville heavily featured Zod and while I liked the actor well enough, he didn't do anything that would spoil my fun for a big-screen adaptation. I can only consider myself a casual Superman fan that's desperately wanting to be a hardcore one. I've never been enthralled with any of the live-action Superman projects so for me it's basically a clean slate. The attachment to these characters are far stronger for more devout fans which I'm sure is the root of the disappointment. I'm just excited with the prospects of a superhuman battle royale done right. Regardless of the characters being utilized, that to me is new territory that I don't mind at all being explored.
No, I understand your position. I have a different experience, and I'm just tired of waiting for something new, really.

[GreenKToo]

Checking out all the main film sites, i'd say its a pretty safe bet that most fans, and casual fans alike, wouldn't want Zod ( even tho he hasnt been mentioned by name ).
WB has to know this by now.

[BH/HHH]

Checking out all the main film sites, i'd say its a pretty safe bet that most fans, and casual fans alike, wouldn't want Zod ( even tho he hasnt been mentioned by name ).
WB has to know this by now.

Like I've said previously if the film does feature Zod there's no saying that he is the villain.

[BigThor]

Checking out all the main film sites, i'd say its a pretty safe bet that most fans, and casual fans alike, wouldn't want Zod ( even tho he hasnt been mentioned by name ).
WB has to know this by now.

I sure don't want General Zod, I'd rather Metallo be the villain that "slugs it out" with Superman while Lex or Brainaic work behind the scenes.

[GreenKToo]

I wouldn't be opposed if they had Zod for the next film...they could kinda hint at him at the end, ala joker @ the end of B.B.
I wouldn't even be opposed to Zod in this film as long as he is not the head/main villain. I've been wishing for Brainiac for five years now, and i'm gonna keep on wishing for him.

[BH/HHH]

I wouldn't be opposed if they had Zod for the next film...they could kinda hint at him at the end, ala joker @ the end of B.B.
I wouldn't even be opposed to Zod in this film as long as he is not the head/main villain. I've been wishing for Brainiac for five years now, and i'm gonna keep on wishing for him.

Maybe something to do with the phantom zone then in the sequel Zod is the villain. That could work.

[Doctor Jones]

To be honest, I think people NOT wanting Zod is somewhat valid because I belong to that group. But I wouldn't be heartbroken if he was the main baddie, you know, but it WOULD be nice to see Superman's other villains. I mean, because the public is kinda used to Lex Luthor (and Zod to a degree) and to their perspective, it makes Superman's rogue gallery look quite limited when it's clearly not..

The GA doesn't even remember Zod in Superman 2. At least by name. They just know Luthor has been the villain alot.

People here are acting we are going to see the same exact thing we saw in Superman 2 again. Which wasn't anything great at all. Quite silly actually. Snyder can do so much better.

[Kal-El Fan]

Zod, Ursa and Non also appeared in S:TM without being the villains for that movie. It's possible that the Phantom Zone plays a role in this film and that's why/where we see them. Perhaps Brainiac is working for/with Zod and attempting to release him from the Phantom Zone.

[BH/HHH]

Zod, Ursa and Non also appeared in S:TM without being the villains for that movie. It's possible that the Phantom Zone plays a role in this film and that's why/where we see them. Perhaps Brainiac is working for/with Zod and attempting to release him from the Phantom Zone.

great expample :up:

[solidsnake86]

The GA doesn't even remember Zod in Superman 2. At least by name. They just know Luthor has been the villain alot.

People here are acting we are going to see the same exact thing we saw in Superman 2 again. Which wasn't anything great at all. Quite silly actually. Snyder can do so much better.

Thank you, nobody cares for superman 2 it came out 30 years ago and was a bad film. They have made some great changes to zods character in the comics recently but I guess nobody here has actually cared to look it up and with that mentality I can see why people will think bane can't speak if they just go by batman and robin.

Non in particular they made some great changes, he was a chief scientist and worked with jor-el when they discovered that krypton was going to explode. The council didn't want to hear any of it so they lobotomized him. Zod originally was on the councils side but once he learned of non and jor-els research he wanted to save krypton. It's all in action comics annual ten and I suggest some of you should take a look at it if you think Zod is lame. Just that story alone gives more reason why Zod should be in this series.

[Chris B]

I wouldn't be surprised if they're using the 'Batman Begins' model with Zod/Ursa being the equivalents of Scarecrow in this, with Brainiac and Lex being the respective equivalents of Ra's and Falcone.

[Alonsovich]

I wouldn't be surprised if they're using the 'Batman Begins' model with Zod/Ursa being the equivalents of Scarecrow in this, with Brainiac and Lex being the respective equivalents of Ra's and Falcone.

^This...:up:

Goyer/Nolan have used multiple villains in their Batman films... I think they'll do the same thing for Supes.

[BH/HHH]

I wouldn't be surprised if they're using the 'Batman Begins' model with Zod/Ursa being the equivalents of Scarecrow in this, with Brainiac and Lex being the respective equivalents of Ra's and Falcone.

Possibly and I kinda like that but they might have to take away their powers for that. I personally think its gonna be Zod and Ursa in flashbacks.

[Saint]

The GA doesn't even remember Zod in Superman 2.
I don't think we have enough information to say what the general audience remembers.

That said, I do know that the evil Kryptonians and the Phantom Zone mirror are occasional pop culture references, so clearly there is some awareness. It seems like people on the Hype think that only nerds have memories. I think people do, in fact, remember (and still watch) films from the seventies and eighties--especially cultural touchstones like the Star Wars and Superman films (not that I would expect people to be as aware of Superman II as they are Star Wars). Anyone who doesn't remember is going to be quickly reminded by the clip of Terrance Stamp they're bound to show on Entertainment Tonight when discussing this movie.

Also, who cares what the general audience remembers? I remember. It doesn't help me that somebody else doesn't know who Zod is.

People here are acting we are going to see the same exact thing we saw in Superman 2 again.
No, no one seems to be arguing that we're "going to see the exact same thing," but the same villain is the same villain. I don't begrudge people for wanting something that is entirely new. I mean, let's look at the classic Superman villains who have been depicted on screen:

1. Luthor.
2. Zod.
3. No on else.

Given that, yeah, it makes sense to me that some people might not be thrilled that the filmmakers said "Well, let's do Zod again for some reason." It's not like there's any lack of other material to draw from.

[DorkyFresh]

Zod is probably of the most film friendly villain that Superman has next to Lex Luthor. it was only obvious to me that he would appear in a new Superman film at some point. if you didn't at least expect this then you were only kidding yourself.

i would eventually like to see Brainiac, but i don't need him to be the main bad guy in this movie. this is Superman's first big adventure in a new telling. it would be overwhelming for him to face someone like Brainiac as his first big challenge. if Brainiac is indeed the main bad guy in this film, cool....we'll get a huge spectacle....but at the same time, it find it hard to imagine that a rookie Superman could survive an attack by Brainiac.

[DaJanksta]

I still see Gerard Butler as a bad ass Zod. He has an intimidating look.

But I still dearly want to see Corporate Lex and Braniac..badly...one can hope.

[KRIM]

That really depends on whether it picks up on an established Superman or deals with the origin. For an established Superman, I think Brainiac is the way to go. Go all out; outer space, science fiction, Superman versus the ultimate alien invasion--blow away everybody out there that has seen the previous movies and thinks they know what Superman is all about. Show them that it's not all Phantom Zones and Kryptonians and Lex Luthor land-grabs. When I think of a movie with Brainiac, well, the movie I'm thinking of has never been done, anywhere. Do it! Blow people away.
While I love the prospects, I've always imagined that scenario to be sequel territory. Not even in the sense of it's bigger so it must come later, but the material covered in that movie is so huge that I fear it would take away from the crucial period in which we get to know Clark from the get-go. Established superhero or not I think it is essential to start off the franchise ensuring he's the one in the spotlight.

If it's an origin movie, that's different. Birthright, my favourite origin, didn't have a villain. Probably a bad idea for film. Metallo doesn't interest me much, but in Secret Origin he was Superman's first villain, and his first encounter with kryptonite--which I think has some life in it, with some clever writing.
I loved Birthright and thought it could've made a really great first film, myself. The villain issue is somewhat circumvented by the various threats Supes goes up against throughout the story. I usually hate narratives that tie everything into neat little bows, but covering the origin of Supes, Lex, Krypton, and an assumed alien invasion all into one story was very impressive.

In any case, I don't think they should be pulling their punches at this stage. The "save it for later" approach does, sometimes, make sense--but between half a dozen false starts and then a film that fizzled, I don't think it's wise at this stage. I think they need to pull it all out.

I consider Zod a big enough threat that there are really a multitude of ways Snyder could utilize him. The larger-than-life scale of Superman hasn't been portrayed yet, so that may be enough to sway audience perception. Besides, Snyder doesn't seem like the type to pull punches in any shape or form.

[Saint]

Zod is probably of the most film friendly villain that Superman has next to Lex Luthor.
Well, I don't know--characters like Brainiac, Mongul, and Metallo have been achieved on film before with fine results, I'm not sure they're any less film friendly than Zod--unless you just mean that it's easier to depict a guy who looks like a human than it is to build a sci-fi creature. In any case, what's easier or friendlier for them doesn't really inform my experience, you know? Like I said before, I think after Superman Returns, I've had enough of safe, friendly decision-making. They should be pushing the envelope at this point, I think.

it was only obvious to me that he would appear in a new Superman film at some point.
I agree, but it seems preposterous to me that, with only two villains ever depicted on screen, you would choose one of those for your reboot. I don't mind re-using villains on principle--especially Luthor, who is so intergral to the mythology that it's hard to imagine a film without him--but when so few have been explored, doing a re-hash seems silly. This isn't like the Batman franchise, where [i]ten[i] classic villains had been depicted on screen before we saw one of them re-done.

[DorkyFresh]

Like I said before, I think after Superman Returns, I've had enough of safe, friendly decision-making. They should be pushing the envelope at this point, I think.
so then i take it you don't approve of Zack Snyder of Henry Cavill? these are safe, friendly choices for their respective roles.

btw, SR was anything BUT safe and friendly....a Superman who suddenly left Earth, became an absent parent, and stalked his ex? aside from rehashing Lex's grand scheme from S:TM, i wouldn't call SR safe or friendly...

I agree, but it seems preposterous to me that, with only two villains ever depicted on screen, you would choose one of those for your reboot.
the good about Zod, though, is that with him you get 3 villains for the price of 1 :D

[craigdbfan]

Green Lantern has a whole different alien planet with a ton of other species from around the universe being adapted yet Superman has to worry about "film friendliness" in having Brainiac an artificial life form from Krypton which for believability sake is more palpable than the GL film yet WB was fine with it?

I don't think that would be their reasoning. Brainiac is very possible and if thats the reason for not picking him that just seems lazy and half assed.

Although I'm still keeping my fingers crossed for him.

[dark_b]

it would be more original to invent a villain then to use ZOD.

look having ZOD in this movie would not be a problem to me if Lex Luthors story in SR was not 100% connected with S:TM.

[DorkyFresh]

Green Lantern has a whole different alien planet with a ton of other species from around the universe being adapted yet Superman has to worry about "film friendliness" in having Brainiac an artificial life form from Krypton which for believability sake is more palpable than the GL film yet WB was fine with it?
well played...great argument, but just because Zod is in this film doesn't necessarily mean Brainiac WON'T be involved in some capacity.

I don't think that would be their reasoning. Brainiac is very possible and if thats the reason for not picking him that just seems lazy and half assed.
well let's hope that the news from Hero Complex tonight is that Brainic will play a role in the film.

look having ZOD in this movie would not be a problem to me if Lex Luthors story in SR was not 100% connected with S:TM.
but they've made it abundantly clear that this rendition will have nothing to do with the previous movies. it even seems Ursa will be a blond this time around...so keeping that in mind, why would Zod having an appearance be so troublesome?

[craigdbfan]

well played...great argument, but just because Zod is in this film doesn't necessarily mean Brainiac WON'T be involved in some capacity.

Completely agree. Zod and Ursa can be strengthened as characters with the inclusion of Brainiac. The same goes for Brainiac who will also benefit from having both of them appear to solidify his treachery and complete villainy even more.

Again I would love to see a moment where Zod and Superman see through his lies and in the end have an epic Kryptonian team up against Brainiac.


well let's hope that the news from Hero Complex tonight is that Brainic will play a role in the film.

Here's hoping. :up:

[KRIM]

If Braniac is in, I can only hope it won't quell the chances if his inclusion in another film. I think they can go really balls-out with him as the main baddie. In fact, they should just give him and Lex recurring roles.

[Pumpkin_Bomb]

I may be in the minority here, but I'd rather not see Zod, particularly in this first movie. If they decide to do an origin movie, which I hope they don't anyway, making the first villain another Kryptonian really puts a damper on the whole "last son of Krypton, only one of my kind" dynamic. An evil Kryptonian works much better, IMO, if it comes later on, when it might actually surprise someone. Plus, Zod and co. have already had a movie, albeit an old one, and I'd rather see a villain that hasn't gotten the big screen treatment yet.

[Saint]

so then i take it you don't approve of Zack Snyder of Henry Cavill? these are safe, friendly choices for their respective roles.
I can't speak on Cavill because I know so little about him. However, yes, it's true that Snyder is probably not the director I would have chosen. Not that he's a bad choice, I just don't think he's the most interesting choice--though I can only speculate as to what he or other directors would do with Superman.

btw, SR was anything BUT safe and friendly....a Superman who suddenly left Earth, became an absent parent, and stalked his ex? aside from rehashing Lex's grand scheme from S:TM, i wouldn't call SR safe or friendly...
At it's core, it's Superman: The Movie, and I think that's pretty much as safe as can be. I'll give you Superman as an absent parent, but that's basically the only new idea the film contains. Even Superman's absence from Earth is wasted; it basically amounts to a sub-plot between Clark and Lois.

Don't mistake me, though. The truth is, I liked Superman Returns when it came out, and I still like parts of it. That said, I see it for what it was: I see the opportunities it missed and the opportunities it wasted, and those are ultimately what brought the film down. Equally, though Zod can certainly make for a fine villain, I worry about the missed opportunities here, as well.

[Jochimus]

it would be more original to invent a villain then to use ZOD.

They're probably still smarting from the last two times this was done in a Superman movie.

On that note, the only problem I have with the possibility of Zod again is not so much that Zod in himself has already been used in the movies (especially given that that was 30 years ago), but in the fact that Zod is an evil Kryptonian, and therefore has all of Superman's powers - and therefore is, in essence, another evil version/clone/knockoff of Superman. THIS is what's been overdone the most with this franchise in the action department, IMO.

If the script were to bring a little more of the complexity of the way Zod has been portrayed in the comics lately, I could live with that, since it would help get a little more distance from Stamp's portrayal of the character.

[Saint]

While I love the prospects, I've always imagined that scenario to be sequel territory. Not even in the sense of it's bigger so it must come later, but the material covered in that movie is so huge that I fear it would take away from the crucial period in which we get to know Clark from the get-go. Established superhero or not I think it is essential to start off the franchise ensuring he's the one in the spotlight.
Whether Superman is in the spotlight doesn't seem like something that's dictated by his enemy, but by the scripting--so I don't necessarily agree that the selection of Zod over someone else is informed by that consideration.

That said: suppose the film dropped Clark right down in the middle of War World to face Mongul. The film could just as easily be about Clark--just a different element of Clark. That would be something shockingly different--and the more well known, Earth-bound elements of Superman would be something to tackle later, in a sequel. Our "ZOMG, WHAT ABOUT THE GENERAL AUDIENCE" sense might start buzzing, but do we need to hold their hand? They know about Superman. I don't think their heads are going to explode.

Now, I'm sure a lot could go wrong with that sort of movie and I don't necessarily advocate that... I just think we need to cut the damn cord, you know? These movies are so down to Earth, so intent on easing people into Superman, it kills me--and I think it's why the character doesn't speak to a lot of people these days, because nobody has gone all-out with him.

Yeah, you can go "all out" with Zod, I wouldn't deny that--but the choice just doesn't fill me with confidence that they're going to be looking to push that envelope and do something new and daring. Hopefully my concerns turn out to be unwarranted, but for now, my concerns they remain.

I loved Birthright and thought it could've made a really great first film, myself. The villain issue is somewhat circumvented by the various threats Supes goes up against throughout the story. I usually hate narratives that tie everything into neat little bows, but covering the origin of Supes, Lex, Krypton, and an assumed alien invasion all into one story was very impressive.
I don't disagree.

[SuperDaniel]

I really dont think the past movies and SR are examples of anything regarding villains. That Lex Luthor sucked and those 3 criminals from Krypton were treated as comedic guys. General Zod all the time doing wisecracks, telling people to kneel before him every 10 seconds.

Ursa: Oh Zod, now youre the master of everything
zod: So I was yesterday..and the day before...
President: Oh God...
Zod: Zod!!

:rolleyes:


I dont care how much the Donner movies were great for their time but nowadays they are a crapfest, imo. I couldnt watch the Donner Cut without fastforwarding it. We dont need more of that BS ever in a Superman movie.

If Zod is in this movie, he will be a REAL general, treated very seriously and will be killing a lot of people and not telling people to kneel before him all the time.

[Kurosawa]

I'm not big on Zod myself. He wasn't even the main PZ villain until Superman II made him famous and Ursa wasn't even a real comics character-Faora was the comics version.

[Lead Cenobite]

I'm not big on Zod myself. He wasn't even the main PZ villain until Superman II made him famous and Ursa wasn't even a real comics character-Faora was the comics version.

So he was made famous by Superman II, I don't see how that lessens the character's importance. The DCAU shows created several characters that were introduced into the comics and also altered the characterizations of several established characters, and the alterations were adopted into the comics, most notably Mr. Freeze's. Nobody complains about his updated, tragic origin just because it wasn't from the comics.

[Lead Cenobite]

I really dont think the past movies and SR are examples of anything regarding villains. That Lex Luthor sucked and those 3 criminals from Krypton were treated as comedic guys. General Zod all the time doing wisecracks, telling people to kneel before him every 10 seconds.

Ursa: Oh Zod, now youre the master of everything
zod: So I was yesterday..and the day before...
President: Oh God...
Zod: Zod!!

:rolleyes:


I dont care how much the Donner movies were great for their time but nowadays they are a crapfest, imo. I couldnt watch the Donner Cut without fastforwarding it. We dont need more of that BS ever in a Superman movie.

If Zod is in this movie, he will be a REAL general, treated very seriously and will be killing a lot of people and not telling people to kneel before him all the time.

Oh how joyless and grimdark.

[7heBoss]

I really don't understand why people are so against using Zod as a villain just because he has already been used. Joker and Twoface both had their own movies and the Dark Knight turned out pretty well. I trust that if Nolan and Goyer chose Zod for the villain it must have been the best choice for the story they are telling.

[DIRECTOR]

personally, i'm tired of seeing everyone suggest Gerard Butler. he's such an obvious choice...be more creative with your choices people!!!
how can you get creative if Zach is recycling the villian in the original film?

AND WHO SAYS ZOD IS IN THE FILM?

[DorkyFresh]

how can you get creative if Zach is recycling the villian in the original film?
Superman's had countless stories told about him, yet writers and artists are constantly finding new and interesting stories to tell. if people can still get creative with Superman after 70 years then people can EASILY get creative with Zod...

AND WHO SAYS ZOD IS IN THE FILM?
if the short list for Ursa is legit, then it's hard to imagine Zod WON'T be in the film...

[Zack Snyder]

It seems a bit odd to completely distance yourself from Donner for a modern take, and yet include characters like Zod and Ursa :confused:

A shame they don't have a large role for Lex and Metallo, then a smaller role for Brainiac more in background setting him up for major role in sequel.

I suppose if they use these characters they would give a different background/characterization. Who knows, Ursa could end up being a love interest for Superman this time around and go back and forth between trusting Zod and Superman.

[Octoberist]

I really don't understand why people are so against using Zod as a villain just because he has already been used. Joker and Twoface both had their own movies and the Dark Knight turned out pretty well. I trust that if Nolan and Goyer chose Zod for the villain it must have been the best choice for the story they are telling.

But Batman also had Ra's and Scarecrow. And if you wanna count the rest (Riddler, Penguin), why not?

My point is that Superman, as a film franchise, seems to be stuck on 1st gear creatively. I think Zod could work but Superman also has tons of villains are due for a big screen debut.

[BigThor]

But Batman also had Ra's and Scarecrow. And if you wanna count the rest (Riddler, Penguin), why not?

My point is that Superman, as a film franchise, seems to be stuck on 1st gear creatively. I think Zod could work but Superman also has tons of villains are due for a big screen debut.

My sentiments exactly, atleast let Superman actually be the "Last Son of Krypton" for the first film in the franchise :super:.

[TruerToTheCore]

So he was made famous by Superman II, I don't see how that lessens the character's importance. The DCAU shows created several characters that were introduced into the comics and also altered the characterizations of several established characters, and the alterations were adopted into the comics, most notably Mr. Freeze's. Nobody complains about his updated, tragic origin just because it wasn't from the comics.

I think they should distance themselves from the old movie, Zod is tied to the Donnerverse. It's not like the Joker who was always a big Batman villain.

[8wid]

Haven't we waited enough to see Brainiac or Darkseid in live action?!

[Octoberist]

Brainiac, Darkseid, Metello, or whomever..I think most people can agree with you.

[Micah12345]

Darkseid needs to be in a justice league movie. He's always been a cosmic DC threat rather than just a single hero threat. Put some of superman's villains in superman's movies. He's got plenty to go around, one of the best rogues galleries in comics.

[Lead Cenobite]

I think they should distance themselves from the old movie, Zod is tied to the Donnerverse. It's not like the Joker who was always a big Batman villain.

Well then they should leave Jimmy and Perry out too since they were created for the radio show. If they're gonna distance the new movie from the Donnerverse, they should also distance it from every past adaptation. And Brainiac shouldn't be Kryptonian because that would tie the movie to STAS.

[FilmNerdJamie]

Will Viggo Mortensen Play the Villain in 'Superman'?

Now that British hunk Henry Cavill is set to play the Man of Steel, the search is on the fill out the rest of the cast of Warner Bros.' big-budget Superman reboot. Sources tell The Hollywood Reporter that producer Christopher Nolan and director Zack Snyder are zeroing in on an intriguing actor to play the villain: Viggo Mortensen.

Mortensen, who is still in negotiations (http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/blogs/heat-vision/viggo-mortensen-eyeing-role-snow-76442) for Universal’s Snow White and the Huntsman, is said to be at the top of the list to play General Zod, the evil and super-powered scientist first introduced not in the comic books but in 1980's Superman II. Terrence Stamp originated the role. If Mortensen's Snow White deal doesn't close, that would potentially free him up to make Superman. Or Universal and Warner Bros. could work out his schedule and enable him to do both.

Sources say no talks have commenced and that Mortensen is just a "person of interest," much like Kevin Costner is for the role of Jonathan Kent. The actors aren't the only ones considered for their respective roles, though they are the ones most seriously talked about.

Snyder is in the midst of meeting actors for not only the role of Zod and Kent, but the three female parts well. Given the Nolan pedigree with the Batman films and the tenpole nature of a Superman film, the roles are considered some of the hottest and most-desired in town.

Warner Bros. had no comment.

http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/blogs/heat-vision/will-viggo-mortensen-play-villain-161432

[Alonsovich]

http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/blogs/heat-vision/will-viggo-mortensen-play-villain-161432

Whoa... 3 female parts?

[RoughNTumble]

lana, ma kent, lois?

ma kent, lois, cat grant?

lois, ma kent, ursa?

[FilmNerdJamie]

Presumably Lois, Ursa and Ma Kent.

[RoughNTumble]

no comment from WB is usually a confirmation, right? lol

[FilmNerdJamie]

No.

[childeroland]

EDIT: Just saw the above post with the same info. Still, awesome if it works out.

[batman44]

Mortensen would be fantastic. I hope he comes aboard as well as Costner.

[KRIM]

Whether Viggo gets it or not, it's nice to hear they're aiming very high. The type of acting pedigree Viggo carries is far greater than what Snyder has typically gone for, so I'm hoping the Nolan/Superman factor helps push this project as serious consideration for that type of actor.

[FilmNerdJamie]

Thank God Snyder was telling the truth about Zod not being the villain last year...

[batman44]

lol.

Now I wonder how long it'll be before someone make a separate thread about this.

[Eddie Dean]

Can't go wrong with Viggo.

[Ursa]

Viggo would be great as Luthor. I'd like to see Vincent Cassel as Zod.

[flickchick85]

Zod, Luthor, whoever, I'd LOVE to see Viggo in this movie. :up:

[RoughNTumble]

I'm not sure I've seen viggo in a villainous role before, it would be interesting. I think he's certainly capable of being threatening.

[Lencho01]

Hmm...

[I Am The Knight]

Using Zod is fine, what I don't understand is why the fascination with him? He keeps popping up as the villain, while the likes of Brainiac and more classic villains collect dust.

[Dar]

Wow, I wouldn't have thought of him but Viggo adds a certain coolness factor to whatever he's in. I'd have no problem with this at all.

[Lencho01]

Using Zod is fine, what I don't understand is why the fascination with him? He keeps popping up as the villain, while the likes of Brainiac and more classic villains collect dust.

I feel the same way. It's like there are no other villains other than Lex and Zod.

[KyleDW2]

General Zod

evil and super-powered scientist

first introduced not in the comic books but in 1980's Superman II.

http://i961.photobucket.com/albums/ae92/perceptibot/finnRAGE.png

Other than that, sounds good. I was just thinking today that they should get some of the cast from Lord of the Rings into this.

[BigA]

I don't have a problem with Zod, but I hope if they do use him, they tie it into Brainiac for a sequel. I think the problem with Brainiac for a first film would be the general public. I think they could recognize with someone like Zod who has Superman's powers as opposed to a supercomputer humanoid like Brainiac (or any other ways he has been depicted). It they tie the two in and lay the groundwork for Brainiac in the first movie, it would give the general public a better idea about the character.

[RoughNTumble]

elijah wood for jimmy? too old maybe.

[I Am The Knight]

I feel the same way. It's like there are no other villains other than Lex and Zod.

I think you're already eligible for an avatar.

elijah wood for jimmy? too old maybe.

LOL, I was thinking the same thing. Don't think he would go for that...

[jedi42]

I'm not sure I've seen viggo in a villainous role before, it would be interesting. I think he's certainly capable of being threatening.

Watch The Prophesy, he can do evil.

[BETArayBill]

Ugh general zod come on I thought snyder said he wasn't in the movie of all the superman villains to use they go back to the well again I'm so sick of brainaic getting the shaft I'll take mr mxy. At this point over luthor and zod

[samsnee]

Well then they should leave Jimmy and Perry out too since they were created for the radio show. If they're gonna distance the new movie from the Donnerverse, they should also distance it from every past adaptation. And Brainiac shouldn't be Kryptonian because that would tie the movie to STAS.

This post makes no sense to me. Superman has really only had one modern movie franchise since SR failed to start anything new. The point is to start your own franchise, and that means using villains not tied to the previous ones. Batman Begins used new villains. They didn't go back to Joker till the second movie. This movie should follow the same suit. Save Lex and Zod for a sequel, after you've given your own personal stamp on new villains.

[RachelDawes]

Presumably Lois, Ursa and Ma Kent.

According to one rumor, Lois isn't supposed to play a huge role in this movie, so maybe one of the three parts is Lana or an original love interest a la Rachel Dawes.

[louiebling$]

*subscribes*

[Lencho01]

I think you're already eligible for an avatar.

Cool. I'll have to think of something to request later.

[Asgard]

I didnt know Zod was a scientist.

I think it makes sense for him to be the first villain if it eventually leads to the emergence of Braniac in a sequel.

Maybe Braniac could be stored in Zod's ship and after the events of the first film, Luthor gets a hold of it and makes contact with Braniac.

[RachelDawes]

This post makes no sense to me. Superman has really only had one modern movie franchise since SR failed to start anything new. The point is to start your own franchise, and that means using villains not tied to the previous ones. Batman Begins used new villains. They didn't go back to Joker till the second movie. This movie should follow the same suit. Save Lex and Zod for a sequel, after you've given your own personal stamp on new villains.

But SII will be 32 years old when the next Superman movie comes out. I suspect many members of the GA will have never seen it, or they won't remember it very well. Snyder can probably recycle villains with no negative consequences.

[Octoberist]

I'm split:

While I would love to see another villain like Brainiac, or heck even Parasite, Viggo Mortensen as Zod isn't something to brush off either.

It's getting to the point where I just want a great Superman. Great story with great drama with great action. As admirable as Bryan Singer's version WAS, it was bit misguided and just added ammo to the Superman naysayers.

Grant Morrison got it right, in a recent interview: Superman is noble but he's not a pacifist either. He will fight - and fight hard - when deemed necessary. He's not pushover.

[Octoberist]

Using Zod is fine, what I don't understand is why the fascination with him? He keeps popping up as the villain, while the likes of Brainiac and more classic villains collect dust.

I feel the same way, but I think Zod is the only character that can challenge Superman's heritage, as a fellow Kryptonian. I can't think of any other Superman villain with that type of role, per say.

I hope to God that Brainiac will be foreshadowed in some way..

[I Am Jack's...]

Viggo as Zod :awesome: :up:

But I would be lying if I said I was :awesome: at the thought of Zod in particular. Zod's cool, but I hope(d) we're getting a new villain, especially Brainiac. Although, IIRC, the guy from Latino Review did hint on his twitter that there would be a new villain in this. Very difficult to make judgment right now, will it be Zod? Will it be someone else instead? Will it be both? What about Lex? Could that be too many characters and storylines to fit into one movie with all the origin and possibly Africa stuff? Very complicated, but I'm hoping for the best.

A Zod/Ursa team up with Brainiac (possibly having the latter take advantage of the other two?) would be very sweet though, and could make sense with the links to Krypton they all have. And that goes back to when we heard Goyer was writing the script and that it would feature a huge Kryptonian mythology. But I wonder where that would leave Lex, if he is even in the movie at all, I don't know what to think.

If it is only Zod and Ursa, then I won't be angry, just a little disappointed. But hey, if they can get an actor of or close to Viggo's caliber, won't be much complaining on my end.

[Octoberist]

yeah, same here. A little disappointed, but with Viggo Mortensen makes Zod worth while IF he gets the part.

[FilmNerdJamie]

I’ve heard they’re looking at Daniel Day-Lewis for an unspecified role in this film too, and I can only assume, now having read this news, that he’s also on the 'Zod' wishlist. I like Day-Lewis, and he’d probably do a good job of Zod too, but unlike Mortensen, I can already envision the Brit great's response to being offered the role. Smart man.

http://www.moviehole.net/201137399-west-hollywood-resnorter-viggo-the-superman-villain

[bunk]

I almost don't even care who Viggo is playing as long as he's in the movie.

[I Am The Knight]

Not gonna happen...(Regarding DDL).

[Octoberist]

Daniel Day Lewis is prepping for Lincoln and he is the pickiest actor in Hollywood but for good reasons.

[HighFivingMF]

I"m subscribing to this topic.

[RoughNTumble]

I wish DDL would pick a role that would make him money sometimes. I think he takes his profession a little TOO seriously sometimes, and doesn't have enough fun.

[FilmNerdJamie]

I had actually heard that Snyder had been talking to Gerard Butler about the part, but maybe he’s not been able to break out as a big enough name. With Henry Cavill in the role of Superman getting someone big in the Zod role would be important. Still, I think that Butler would have the wonderful broadness required to have fun with that part.

http://www.badassdigest.com/2011/02/25/superman-could-kneel-before-viggo

[RoughNTumble]

I don't think gerard butler looks very good without a beard. 300 was the only movie I liked him in.