Avengers Movie: Captain America Ashamed to Wear the American Flag? Not Exactly…
by John Nolte
A lesson in why it’s important to read the whole story; because after reading the first two paragraphs my blood was at full boil:
But director Joe Johnston and the team at Marvel Studios have a plan for “The First Avenger: Captain America,” which is due in Summer 2011: They’ve added a new wrinkle to the classic mythology to explain why a scientifically enhanced super-soldier would venture out in the WWII battlefields in a costume that leans a bit heavy on the old Betsy Ross imagery.
“The costume is a flag, but the way we’re getting around that is we have Steve Rogers forced into the USO circuit. After he’s made into this super-soldier, they decide they can’t send him into combat and risk him getting killed. He’s the only one and they can’t make more. So they say, ‘You’re going to be in this USO show’ and they give him a flag suit. He can’t wait to get out of it.”
Captain America “can’t wait to get out of” wearing the American flag? Captain America’s too cool for the American flag?
Because we all know how stripping Superman of his Americanism (and masculinity) worked out for that franchise, right? Before you explode like I did, read on…
“When he does go AWOL, he covers up the suit but then, after a few things happen, he realizes that this uniform allows him to lead. By then, he’s become a star in the public mind and a symbol. The guys get behind him because he embodies something special.” …
In the first USO sequences, the frustrated patriot will be wearing a [costume] version that is closer to the classic Jack Kirby-designed costume, but then later as the super-soldier hits the war zone he will be wearing a sturdier, more muted version that he makes himself that is more like battle togs. The stripes across his mid-section, for instance, will be straps, not colored fabric.
“He realizes the value of the uniform symbols but he modifies his suit and adds some armor, it will be closer to the Cpa costume in some of the comics in more recent years . . . this approach, it’s the only way we could justify ever seeing him on a screen in tights, with the funny boots and everything. The government essentially puts him up there as a living comic-book character and he rips it off and then reclaims some of its imagery after he recognizes the value of it. We think it’s the best way to keep the costume and explain it at the same time.”
One way to tell what a film is “about” is through the protagonist’s character arc. Generally, what they come to realize through the story is — for good or bad — the moral of the story. From what we’re being told here, part of Steve Rogers’ arc will be in coming to appreciate what the American flag stands for and symbolizes.
I like it. I like it a lot.
Now, if they can just avoid casting a meterosexual.
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153 Comments
Oooh, I think I'll like this movie! I can't wait! I hope they cast a somewhat macho guy too.
Glad to hear this. I can see so many ways they could go wrong with this character. Good to see they avoided this one.
Glad to hear this. I can see so many ways they could go wrong with a character like this. Good to see this is the direction they are headed in.
Only one person can play this role….MICHAEL YON !!!
I actually wrote a post on my site rebelcomix.com regarding this. You're right, I should have finished the article, but after reading the first half I couldn't stomach going on. While I respect your point, I have to say I still disagree with it.
There's no real reason to make this hero's journey of revelation. The character of Steve Rogers undergoes experimentation because he's the ultimate patriot. He believes in what he is doing and thus inspires the soldiers around him. Why is he going AWOL in the first place?
The whole reasoning for the costume is that Rogers is painting a target on himself, defying the Nazis to come after him. Sorry, these changes don't make sense.
He goes AWOL because he wants to get to the front where the fighting is, and away from the USO freakshow. I'm okay w/ it as long as in the end, Cap is the super patriot the left HATES.
[...] After reading this article on Bighollywood.com, I realized that I should have finished reading the second half of the LA Times [...]
All I have to say is that, they can't do much worse than the 1990 version where the Red Skull was Italian and somehow became a Mob boss. Also Matt "Son of J.D." Salinger's rubber ears will not be missed.
God Bless Captain America!!! DOWN WITH THE RED SKULL!!!
"Now, if they can just avoid casting a meterosexual."
PLEAZZZE!!!!!!! No wonder I hate the "naughts." (With all due respect to Blink 182) The Blink 182-wannabees…its not cool for guys to weight under 100 lbs. and whine like a bunch of girls.
WTF was up with this genre. The chicks were the rockers and the dudes were the whiny beeeetches. Leave metrosexuality to the Japanese. There is a reason they are metrosexual. Their economy has sucked for 15 years. They don't know what else to do other then act gay. It's okay for homosexuals to act gay. But not you.
I'm okay with chicks rocking. Joan Jett was sweet. I'm not okay with guys who look like Karen Carpenter and try to sell me Steve Vie or Joe Satriani.
Sorry John. Had to blow off steam.
Now, if they can just avoid casting a meterosexual.
Knowing how Hollywood works, they'll probably cast Sam Rockwell or Gerard Butler when they should cast Steven Crowder.
I know I shouldn't but I'm going to give the director the benefit of the doubt on this one. Why? #1 Marvel has done an excellent job of protecting its characters and made great films since they took over financing. #2 Johnston seems to be more referencing the sticking point of any realistic comic book movie – Men in Spandex. I think his comments seem to be about how to get him into a realistic costume that isn't an exact replica of the comic book spandex. I can see someone feeling silly in spandex (as opposed to the stars and stripes). He seems interested in developing a real story behind Captain America's evolving character which sounds good. #3 Johnston has already been taken out of context after saying Captain America has no superpowers. Fandom went into riot mode after that one
Here is the URL to the Los Angeles Times article in question:
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/herocomplex/2010/...
Joe Johnston is a pretty good film director who came out of the ILM effects factory. His credits include The Rocketeer and October Sky which are both entertaining period pieces that balances human drama with the visual effects.
On the surface, the scenario about the USO seems weird, but if the objective is to show the evolution of Steve Rogers into Captain America, then that is a hero's journey that film audiences will be eager to undertake.
Adam Baldwin is a good actor (i.e., Jayne from <i.>Firefly shows his range) , but according to the article, Joe Johnston is looking at five or six actor ranging in age from 23 to 32. Maybe Mr. Baldwin can be Steve Rogers' drill sergeant. That would be awesome casting, and I'm sure Mr. Baldwin would sink his teeth in that role.
Overall, given the fact that there has been so little information on this particular Marvel film production, I am encouraged by what little I have read thus far.
That SO works…!!!
Its EXACTLY the kind of role Adam Baldwin needs…
I hope someone is paying attention… and in the next post he puts up, EVERYONE PUSH IT…
Captain America…Adam Baldwin…
Was that a tingle…?
One of the best lines in the first "X-Men" movie is Wolverine saying, "…you people actually go out looking like this?"
And the retort from Cyclops, "What were you expecting, yellow spandex…?"
Well, perhaps, if enough "advice" is tossed out there on the Net, the producers will cast an appropriate "type", and not shoot themselves in the wallet.
TWO WORDS……………
The ROCK
Crowder is way more metrosexual (looks-wise) than either of those guys. The tight shirts, the poofy hair, etc, etc.
how to ollie…
[...] Be the best, ollie like the best [...]…
Too bad Ted Nugent is too old for that part.
Captain America “can’t wait to get out of” wearing the American flag? Captain America’s too cool for the American flag?
I’m relieved this isn’t a theme in the movie but it is with many liberals, specifically American born leftwing ingrates. While in college a friend and I were trying to start a clothing company [surf/skate clothing] and the first image I designed for a shirt was our company name in bold with the American flag within the text. I ended up doing this for several images; the most popular was probably a pot leaf with the American flag in it. Point is most Americans take pride in the American flag, particularly immigrants like myself. And the American flag is a beautiful, majestic flag. Other than The Cross it is the most recognized symbol in the world.
It sounds like Captain America's suit will be similar in style to the new Batman's. Can't go wrong with that. I can't wait to see what Cap America does in a war zone.
USO?
Can we wistfully await his very own musical/dance number a la Spider-man 3?
Or Steve Rogers aptly played by Clay Aiken?
Oh, to dare to dream…
Sounds like a perfectly good approach to adapting a costume that would look a little silly coming straight off the page. Personally, though, I'm waiting for stills from Thor…they MUST keep the winged helmet!
Too old, sad to say.
"Truth, justice, and the American Way."
Also known at Leftnut blogs thus:
"And the two (sic) saddest day in my life was when I found out that the American way has nothing to do with truth and justice."
Well, if it is not a metro-male, I guess that leaves out Obama!
Check out the links in this:
http://livingfortruth.wordpress.com/2010/01/14/ho...
Jim Caviezel is my pick – he's got the acting range, the 'passion', and a certain patriotic quality that exudes 'when the going gets tough, the tough get going.'
His age (41), though, may disqualify him.
He believes in what he is doing and thus inspires the soldiers around him. Why is he going AWOL in the first place?
The whole reasoning for the costume is that Rogers is painting a target on himself, defying the Nazis to come after him.
_IF_ they can manage to get someone who's a decent writer and understands patriotism, and loves the Captain, they might be able to pull it off.
Something like… he wanted to be stronger, for exactly the reason you pointed out– painting a big target on himself and DOING something, but they refuse to let him do anything, so his role could be filled just as well by any random muscle-boy off the street. Then, in the middle of one of the shows, there's an attack on the base– and he's ordered to run away like, oh, say the obligatory Cute Or Sexy Little Singer from the USO show.
Instead, he goes AWOL, stripping off the suit to get past everyone else, and goes out to fight the attack.
Area gets cut off, the USO caravan is captured, the officers all get disabled one way or another, he tries to lead and nobody listens; best way to re-introduce the uniform would probably be via the shield, after that– it's big, it's got that huge star on it…maybe make it part of his USO show that he can throw it to great effect.
There are SOME ways it can be made to work… I fear it won't be treated well, same as Nightcrawler's Catholicism, but I can hope!
Oh lord was that movie terrible.
I don't mind if they're going to alter the storyline regarding the Captains suit. Johnston's idea is pretty clever. It's a nod to the original material, but it allows them to make the story a little more realistic.
I agree. The full L.A. Times article says they're screening six guys ages 23 to 32. Our beloved Adam Baldwin is 47. Alas.
Gerard is too old—40, but Steve needs to bring the voice down a couple of octaves before he would be cast in anything resembling an adult male.
He is funny and amusing,and unlike Leonardo DiCaprio, he might actually look like an adult and sound when he is thirty.
Channing Tatum? Let him redeem himself after GI Joe….but probably someone with real acting chomps would be better….anyone can bulk up.
Yes! And in that version, Captain American WOULD NEVER WEAR HIS SHIRT!!
Great actor, definitely too old. He and Billy Crudup consistently do good work, but they disappear into their roles so so much they almost leave no impression…they sort of lack star power, and sadly, I don't think either brings any box office mojo.
Ah, but you haven't seen fans gone wild unless you're old enough to remember when the news hit that MICHAEL KEATON would be playing Batman!
This captain America sounds like he'll have to struggle with the Don't ask/ don't tell policy. I ask – what does Hollywood have against making money on Patriotism.
Maybe Hollywood can get Justin Timberlake to place Captain America. That way they can take advantage of the whole USO thing.
October Sky was superb! It's exactly the kind of serious love of the craft (and the subject matter) that's needed to pull off Captain America. I have to say, I'm for the idea of him coming to the costume reluctantly. A lot of things were accepted in the comics that look flat out stupid in real life (I'm one of the few who loved what they did to Gallactus in Fantistic Four…..who wanted to see an enormous man with a funny hat who magically flew in space and ate planets?). Back in that time, there's absolutely no way ANYONE would seriously consider dressing like that for any reason, let alone to be feared as a dangerous opponent. Good for them to try to be true to the subject matter without ignoring the reality of the time.
If only….instead we get him in Doom and the Tooth Fairy movie. What a waste of a fantastic talent. {sigh}
I guarantee that if you met Crowder in real life you wouldn't say that… He's 6'4" which Butler, Rockwell, etc. can never attain, looks like the comic book character of Steve Rogers, and is a relative unknown that would not take away from seeing Captain America as [insert name of famous actor here].
Hey, you can always give Crowder a buzz cut.
I thought Neal McDonough was slated to play Captain America?
That was so perfect! Hugh Jackman owned that role as much as Christopher Reeve owned Superman. Hopefully they'll find a way to improve the writing if they're going to continue to make Wolverine prequels. I'm also hopeful for the Deadpool movie. Word is that Ryan Reynolds is a big fan of the comics and has enough creative control in his contract to force them to avoid stupid Hollywood shortcuts.
I would've said Channing Tatum had he not already screwed himself with G.I. Joe.
The downside of having Crowder as Captain America is the fact that when they have to get all of the "Avengers" together in one movie, he'd tower over the rest of the actors… every scene would require Robert Downey, Jr., Edward Norton, et. al to stand on milk crates next to him.
ok. and why is bucky wearing his uniform?
I have been a faithful Cap fan for awhile, but the most recent issue introduced new 'villains': a clueless mob of Tea Partiers that Cap's old partner Sam (who happens to be black) couldn't infiltrate. Just the most disgusting portrayal of people that one would think they wouldn't want to turn off to buying their product. So, no, I have NO faith in Marvel being able to produce a decent film involving a symbol so tied to America.
I blogged about what actor will step into the role of Captain America back in October of 2008. I previously picked actor Mark Valley before I learned that he's in his 40s. Another actor is perfect as Cap is the actor Alan Ritchson of "Blue Mountain State" on Spike Channel.
http://underthehill.wordpress.com/2008/10/13/capt...
Few years ago, I had a discussion with a comic book writer who wrote some issues for Marvel's Captain America. I told him that there should be a parallel of America's and Nazi Germany's quest to build the first atomic bomb with the quest to develop super soldiers. The Nazis failed to create one but produced the Red Skull and the Americans succeeded with Steve Roger becoming a super soldier. The comic book writer thought it would make a great analogy for the Captain America movie.
Channing Tatum? The one with the #1 movie this weekend that'll go down as the movie that knocked Avatar out of the top spot after 7 weeks? I don't think he needs redeeming…probably too expensive now!
Until we conservatives have our own studio so we can produce and distribute our own tradition films out to the public all this will change. These leftist are nothing but fascist who refuse any other opinion on film out there. ITs all their way or nothing. They will never shoot a pro American film the way Captain America is suppose to be shot. They will tweak it so its not what we all know and grew up with. Until we find our own funding and have someone with the single minded will to pull this off and this person has to defy the entire system to set up a complete new film studio that has nothing to do with Hollywood. A film factory that delivers films that praise and honor the traditions of America. The vast conservative majority is out there hungry for these films, THE PASSION proved it all we have to do is supply the demand. Then we can attack these leftist malcontents on film as they do us, why should they have all the fun.
This sounds good. Im really looking forward to this. Only problem is who they will cast. Hope they cast someone good.
I had the same reaction until I read more of the article. I agree that it's an interesting approach, and one that has potential. Perhaps in the current cultural climate, the hero's rediscovery of the values the flag symbolizes will resonate strongly with audiences.
As other commenters have pointed out, the success of this particular venture will depend heavily on the casting and the final screenwriting, perhaps more so than is usual for a "superhero" movie. If handled correctly, this would be an outstanding role for Adam Baldwin's talents. I'd also enthusiastically put forth Ben Browder (Farscape). Both have great range and chops. Alas, Hollywood will probably declare both "too old" without a second thought–curses!!! The Jim Caviezel suggestion has merit, too, though despite his talents, he's not the first who comes to mind.
That and he has the charisma of… I can't think of an inanimate object with less personality than Channing Tatum.
Unfortunately, they're right. Baldwin is awesome, but too old. Honestly, as long as it isn't some Tim Robbins/ James Cameron nutball, does it matter who the actor is? As long as the actor does a good job and doesn't spew some leftist bs during the publicity tour, I don't care who it is.
I haven't read anything since the 5th issue of the dreadful Reborn series. That's sad to discover. It's kind of typical though. Marvel jumped on the Obama band wagon faster than anyone.
adam
Unfortunately that version of Captain America died out sometime in the 50's. Marvel has since then taken Cap on these introspective arcs throughout the comics where he questions America, questions what he is doing, questions the evil corporations and politicians etc. I think for a while they actually had Cap give up the siuit and sheild because the gubment was controlled by bad guys (at least then they did not just say Republicans). Then he comes back to true America which is always following a meme set out by the left coincidently enough.
Oh they are subltle about it, I think Marvel understands that Cap as a brand is to important to risk by having him trash America head on but look closely enough you can see the subtext. It would be too much to ask to have them leave this out of the film.
I dunno
Bruce Willis did a pretty good job in Surrogates.
Excellent choice, totally agree.
Micheal Yon or Adam Baldwin? That is a hard choice.
Ben Browder. But, he's the same age as Adam Baldwin.
I thought the 1990 movie got it right…very right… up until Cap got frozen, and then it was pretty bad. (Nice seeing Billy Mumy in it, too.) This one? If Joe Johnston's doing it, I am feeling fine. Joe's got a heckuva track record of feel-good movies that I love, like Honey I Shrunk the Kids, The Rocketeer, October Sky (a beautiful movie) and JP3 (Jurassic Park 3 is in some ways the best one because it doesn't have Spielberg's weaknesses).
You know it'll be Leonardo DeCaprio. They wanted the little weasel for Iron Man, now they can force him down our throats as the Sentinal of Liberty.
Not to mention, Caviezel actually donates to Republicans
. I'd hate to see this role go to some 'progressive' who hates the country & capitalism, but doesnt mind making money from them..like Clooney.
As long as it isn't someone like Ben Affleck. Ruined Daredevil for me. (My favorite hero)
Now, if they can just avoid casting a meterosexual.
This is key in my humble opinion….however the current crop of hollywood leading men leave alot to be desired. The only actor that I can think of that might fit the bill is Russell Crowe and he's getting to old for roles like this.
The effeminate twits of Twilight and other movie just make me pine for the good ole days of John Wayne, Eastwood, and Lee Marvin.
They are still calling it "The First Avenger" which helps dilute the name "Captain America." And there are rumors The Invaders will be in the film to include other characters that don't have "America" in their name. Do you really think a straight-up Captain America movie can be made in this day and age?
Bite your tongue!!
I'll take your word for it. Much like the Twilight movies, I've been happily avoiding him.
Was thinking more like mike baker.
Adam Baldwin as Cap??? That is a two fisted, @$$ kicking, smart thinking, great actor I can support! I have been a Cap fan since my dad got me my first 4 comic books as a kid for a road trip: Captain America, Batman, Sgt. Rock, and Spider-Man. Honestly Baldwin's the only man I have heard mentioned as possibly playing Cap-the rest have been weak sisters. How do we draft him into this role?
Nah, Adam should play The Red Skull. He does Bad Ass better than anyone. And he does EVIL even better. And there were few more evil than Red Skull.
I don't think Cap has the same sacrosanct name recognition the way Superman, Batman or Spider-Man do, so putting "First Avenger" in the title makes sense, especially since they're trying to build an Avengers film/franchise. Setting it in WWII keeps Cap in touch with his roots, although I suspect WWII isn't the studio's idea of a marketing tie-in dream so he'll get thawed out in the present day pretty quick.
Here's to hoping Marvel goes belly-up! The old Reb Brown stuff was better than this crap! Somebody needs to run Maerel execs out of town on a rail.
I like "Awesome", but he's not big enough for C.A. imho.
For some reason I've always liked Joe Johnston. Probably since he was an illustrator on the original "Star Wars" in the 70's. As a kid, I treasured my copy of the "Star Wars Sketchbook".
Oh, please – ADAM BALDWIN, ftw! He's got the physique, the political stance [GG] and most importantly the acting props for this role. If it's not too late, PTB, make it so!
how about John Cena? get him some acting lessons and he'd probably do well.
I think it's pretty much guarenteed that they'll choose a metrosexual. This is Hollyweird we're talking about. There aren't any Christopher Reeves left. Maybe I'll be wrong, I hope so.
Yes, because what an already "difficult-sell" franchise needs is to be dealing with a fallout from his next blog about Muppet communism halfway through production…
I agree with Under The Hill about actor Mark Valley being a good choice. Didn't he graduate from Westpoint?
And John, speaking of casting metrosexuals, what about the talk of Brad Pitt playing Marshal Matt Dillon in the movie remake of the TV show Gunsmoke? They can't be serious.
Setting aside his profession, he DOES look the part, and he CAN act – he played a pretty convincing soldier in "Black Snake Moan." You KNOW he had to be good in that movie, because it had a topless Christina Ricci and people actually NOTICED that he was even there…
Joe Johnston directed the very patriotic "The Rocketeer", where even the mobster wouldn't betray the country to the Nazis.
I think the idea of making Cap a USO performer is idiotic. I can see the government deciding that he's too valuable to risk in the fighting but then deciding the best use for someone with Cap's abilities is to turn him into a sideshow act? Not so much. Just make the costume a psychological warfare ploy. A constant reminder to Hitler's master race that there is an ubermann and he's an American.
And for the record, Cap doesn't wear spandex. He wears scale armor. It not only looks good but it protects him as well. If it were me, I'd probably go so far as to have it be a body armor prototype developed by a young Howard Stark and Obadiah Stane that proved to be unfeasible for mass production. Of course if it were me I'd have Cap go on a mission with Sgt. Fury and his Howling Commandos as well.
Adam Baldwin's cool, but maybe too old. Brian Geraghty?
Captain America is the ultimate patriot and its disgusting that they are tweaking his origin to be PC (don't want to "offend" the rest of the world). As a DC comics fan (Batman my fav. character), it looks like Marvel is going to make the same mistake Warner Bros. did with the Superman movie (removal of Superman fighting for the AMERICAN WAY). Joe Johnston is giving Cap's creators Joe Simon and Jack "King" Kirby the finger by changing his origin.
Release two different cuts of the move, one for the foreign market, and the other for the good old US of A. But make sure our cut of the movie has Captain America as the Ultimate Patriot.
Kevin Alejandro might work. I actually think Seann William Scott could do it as well. 'The Rock' would be a great choice but he may be just a little too old.
I'm thinking Leo DiCaprio or Chace Crawford or Neil Patrick Harris type will be cast.
Yes, please! Yum.
Maybe a stretch…Ryan Gosling. He has the chops, and seems to be able to dial the intensity level up or down as necessary and I don't recall that he's ever received an outright bad critique except where there was a question of miscasting. Just a thought…
Wow, that's lame.
Just tell the stupid story. I hate what they did with Cap in the books. They killed him off after a plotless crossover that made him into some cartoonish grunt. I don't really care about the movie anyway, I just want to read a stupid comic book that isn't about twenty other books I don't care about.
Justin Timberlake gives me the willies.
I'm was born north of the border and I learned to love America by reading Captain America comic books. He was the only one I knew who could kick someones ass while lecturing about our founding fathers at the same time.
I have to say, I have mied feelings about this. On the one hand, the story sounds incredibly, only-in-Hollywood stupid. And completely counter to wat Captain America was originally about (as has been said, it was a big bull's eye to taunt the Nazi's)
On the other hand, Joe Johnston does a good job with movies. Even when the scripts not great, he still does a good job directing, so much so that I contantly wonder why he doesn't get better, and a bigger projects. He did a great job with the Rocketeer which was set in a similar time period, and even had some good, old-fashioned anti-nazi pro-Americanism (mobster's line "I may not make an honest buck, but I'm a 100 percent American, and I don't work for no two-bit Nazi." Paul Sorvino rules!) Plus, Iron Man was definitely pro-American, and Iron Man 2 looks like it might even be pro-business ("I'm sorry, I've privatized peace"). Hell, even the Incredible Hulk which has the military as villain, wasn't completely anti-American, or even anti-military, just anti Thunderbolt Ross.
I remember it…but at the time, Michael Keaton had "Mr. Mom" dogging him…
Nowadays, I think Keaton and Bale are the only "Batmen" there are…
Everyone else has been a poser…
Dwayne Johnson has found his niche in comedic roles nowadays…and his own iconic status would bump into Cap…
I had the same reaction until I read more of the article. I agree that it's an interesting approach, and one that has potential. Perhaps in the current cultural climate, the hero's rediscovery of the values the flag symbolizes will resonate strongly with audiences.
As other commenters have pointed out, the success of this particular venture will depend heavily on the casting and the final screenwriting, perhaps more so than is usual for a "superhero" movie. If handled correctly, this would be an outstanding role for Adam Baldwin's talents. I'd also enthusiastically put forth Ben Browder (Farscape). Both have great range and chops. Alas, Hollywood will probably declare both "too old" without a second thought–curses!!! The Jim Caviezel suggestion has merit, too, though despite his talents, he's not the first who comes to mind.
I second that motion…
Madam Secretary please call the question
Until we conservatives have our own studio so we can produce and distribute our own tradition films out to the public all this will change. These leftist are nothing but fascist who refuse any other opinion on film out there. ITs all their way or nothing. They will never shoot a pro American film the way Captain America is suppose to be shot. They will tweak it so its not what we all know and grew up with. Until we find our own funding and have someone with the single minded will to pull this off and this person has to defy the entire system to set up a complete new film studio that has nothing to do with Hollywood. A film factory that delivers films that praise and honor the traditions of America. The vast conservative majority is out there hungry for these films
I nominate Kevin Sorbo!
What fallout?
Chris E said: "I can't think of an inanimate object with less personality than Channing Tatum."
I hope not! Tatum will star in the movie of "The Eagle of the Ninth" based on Rosemary Sutcliff´s novel for children set in Roman Britain. (I recommend her elegiac "Sword at Sunset", written for adults, which is her take on the Arthur legend)
One sure way to ruin such a movie is to cast some American looking pretty boy . The other is to introduce contemporary, pc thinking.
I agree, he has a feeling for this kind of material, a sense of wonder and adventure. This becomes obvious when you compare JP2 and JP3. I´m really looking forward to The Wolfman (which will be darker, obviously, but the trailer seriously rocks)
That´s a recommendation. Every actor should undergo this ultimate test of his screen presence …
Like who? Are there any among today's crop of pansy men "stars"?
This is a pathetic idea. How anyone justifies this is beyond me. The story has already been told why these "wrinkles". If you want to modernize it replace the Nazis with Islamists. Simple.
We're acting like beggars! You mean to tell me the military will put him on a USO circuit because he's the only super soldier left? Ridiculous!
This Stan Lee has allowed Captain America over the years to sympathize with terrorists and now he's going to infiltrate the Tea Party movement. Do you people really believe this will be a patriotic movie?
The left has a different version of patriotism. We will be disappointed. Even if it's not full blown leftist the story arch is still stupid. By the way why wasn't Captain America made first after 9/11? Anybody know why?
Well. This could be a lot worse. Afterall, Captain America of the comics is fighting the Tea Party movement. No I'm not kidding.
http://natewinchester.wordpress.com/2010/01/29/so...
That's the $64,000 question. Maybe they can raid the WWE? I don't watch Psych–can anyone tell me how John Cena did?
seeing Hollywood cast 150 lbs Tobey as spiderman, 155lbs (of baby fat) Downing jr as Iron man and whatever his name is as Superman. What would make me think they wouldn't cast 140 lbs DeCaprio or that puke Matt Damon as Captain AMERICA. Who should it be, Adam Baldwin I think would be great, also consideration for Ryan Reynolds or David Boreanaz at least they're not tiny
Downey was the perfect choice to play Tony Stark aka Iron Man.
BOOM SHAKALAKA!
Now the is the ultimate choice for this role!
"The Rocketeer"
that one scene where the Rocketeer is on the roof with the American Flag behind him, cocking his pistol before blasting off to conront the escaping Nazi spy to the joy of both the cops and the mobsters who interestingly found themsleves on the same side fighting against those same Nazis…
cant get any more American than that.
I'm with ed357… Perfect role for Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson.
Hopefully the reboot movie that is in the planning stages will wipe that nasty taste out of the mouth that was left behind from the first movie.
I didn't have a problem really with Affleck as Daredevil. He wasn't GREAT, but he wasn't bad either.
No…I had a hard time with Michael Clark Duncan (I thin kthat is his name) as The Kingpin, much more than Affleck.
My major problem with Daredevil was not the acting. It was the story and how the characters were WRITTEN in that story.
*shrug*
Ryan's already tapped to play Deadpool, which the comic is hilarious, after his bit in Wolverine movie. Marvel was trying not to have actors play multiple characters. Hence they won't use Kingpin in Spiderman since he was in the Daredevil movie.
I don't know if Disney is going to over rule this policy now.
I for one am sick to my bowels of Hollywood's superhero films and their need to "explain" the "silly" costumes. THEY ARE SUPPOSED TO BE FOR CHILDREN! In the childhood world of superheroes, there never is any question about the costume. The hero just wears it and the sense of it is taken for granted. But when creepy, evil, pot-smoking adults stole comic books away from children and took to marketing them for adults, the costumes had to get "darker," get explained or they had to go altogether.
ADAM BALDWIN!!! He lives breathes and sweats a love of country and honor that precious few actors possess. "My Bodygurard" is the modern representation of what it means to stick up for yourself – I cannot think of a better actor to stick up for America. Please do not have some pinko actor in real life portray Captain America.
They managed to get the military folks decent in Ironman…. Not sure how much involvement the idiots in the main comics have with the movies; I stopped read the comics back in '02 or so when some bigot got a hold of Nightcrawler and mangled everything.
No kidding! Have you seen the puffball that Hollywood is trying to cast as the next Conan? I'm surprised they're not pushing that Sharkboy/twilight kid.
Anybody but Sam Worthington. Please.
The fallout that one gets when someone acts… "interestingly" while headlining a movie/TV project that people actually go to see
No disrespect to Firefly – great show and he was great on it, but NOBODY (in the broad sense) cares. Show most of America a cast snapshot and they're mainly going to ask "Isn't that 'Castle?' And I think the other one is on that 'Chuck' show my college-age kid tells me is good but I never watch.")
Plus, let's not be coy: "Guy playing Captain America acts like crazy right-wing stereotype" is a dynamite story. Make no mistake: A HUGE part of the planning on this movie (rightly or not) is getting out in front and declaring definitively that this ISN'T a "nationalistic"/America-first movie and that Cap isn't a one-dimensional my-country-right-or-wrong hero. In other words, casting Adam Baldwin would be counter-intuitive to to the goal of making sure he's NOTHING LIKE Adam Baldwin…
Tom Jane did a decent job as the Punisher. I could see him wearing the uniform.
OMG YES! Ben Browder! He doesn't look old, though.
This may be the most tortured logic I have ever read…….
Uhhh, Captain America is the nationalistic/ pro-American hero for the ages. All he does, he does for America. Hollywood makes hard-left shit that no one can stomach, so why not make an America-first movie about the American Hero? Call it "balancing the spectrum" or something.
You'd need someone who could do both the weakling and the super soldier, right? How about Chris Pine?
I will not go see this movie if he is in it. He was terrible in GI Joe. That and the way he talks does not sound like "American Hero" material to me. He sounds like your stereotypical suburban white kid who thought he was gangsta. No thanks
Bite your typing fingers. That is sacrilege of the highest order. I cannot stand that emo pretty boy punk. He can sparkle his ass on another movie.
I keep picturing Adam Baldwin as Vince Flynn whenever I read a Vince Flynn book.
I'd love to say that I'm surprised by this, but I'm not. Joey Quesadilla has really send Marvel down the hole. Not that previous editors had much respect for the "America" part of Captain America. He became "Nomad" during Nixon's Presidency, was killed off during W. Bush's Presidency. One of the reasons why I stopped buying Marvel comics.
Michael Keaton as Batman was the ultimate in lowering of expectations. As kids we all thought "this is gonna suck" but when he wasn't bad in the role, we all thought (because of lowered expectations) "wow, this guy was spectacular as Batman."
I'm actually shocked that Hollywood didn't completely screw the pooch on Captain America by hiring David Gordon Green to direct a $100 million meta-comedy-spoof-actioner starring DJ Qualls as Steve Rogers, a teenage 98-lb. weakling in 1945 Omaha, NB injected with Super Soldier Serum and transforms into the pinnacle of human physical and mental perfection of "Captain America" (played by Chris Tucker). Captain America briefly confronts Nazi bad guy Red Skull before taking on the much bigger problem of inherent American racism, blows the lid off the Tuskeegee Airman scandal, is secretly hired by evil J. Edgar Hoover (who's actually the Red Skull) to be dropped on both Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and falls in love with a beautiful African-American schoolteacher (Gabrielle Union or Kerry Washington) who then becomes Harry Truman's most trusted advisor.
Did I miss anything?
Josh Holloway (Sawyer from Lost) – beef him up a bit – hand him a razor – he would be perfect.
Actually, the only comic book character the Rock REALLY wants to play is Black Adam:
http://www.popcultureshock.com/rock-black-adam/54...
Let's admit it: the Rock does more greatly resemble Captain Marvel's archenemy than Captain America.
That is BRILLIANT!
In Stargate, he was convincing as an patriotic, courageous American soldier. Bleach Browder's hair, and he'd be a perfect match.
I really hate what Marvel Comics has become over the past five or so years. It’s just a mess with characters that are ill-defined or so messed up you can’t tell who they are anymore. Reed Richards was a mad scientist who helped Tony Stark lock up a lot of people just because they wouldn’t sign a paper saying who they were because they were super powered, it was a terrible story but that’s beside that point that they just portrayed Reed Richards as the same old guy he was before after that was done and no consequences needed. Not to mention it’s just endless promises of stories that don’t pay off because they just changing things around and adding another New Avenger title on occasion. Joe Quesada made Marvel unreadable to me and this is just another thing that doesn’t make me want to read them anymore and that’s from a long time Marvel fan.
You're right. He doesn't look as old as he is, and I'm inclined not to care. If Travolta could be a teenager in Grease, it's fine.
"Uhhh, Captain America is the nationalistic/ pro-American hero for the ages. All he does, he does it for America."
No, he isn't. He LOOKS like he'd be, but for the majority of his publication history he hasn't been.
The original run of the character, published during WWII, was as essentially apolitical as every other superhero: He was there to fight the Axis, period. To be "right" or "left" would require a level of character-complexity generally absent from costumed heroes of that era. He's no more (or less) "nationalistic" than the heroes who aren't wearing flags for costumes, for the most part.
Briefly, in the early-50s, Marvel (Atlas, at the time) actually DID try to revive him in an ultra right-wing vein as "Captain America: Commie Smasher." SHOCKINGLY, this was a quickly-canceled failure.
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Almost a full decade later, Marvel brought him back again; ignoring the "Commie Smasher" incarnation entirely and instead having the WWII-era Cap be discovered alive in the Arctic – he'd been frozen since just before the end of the War. (A subsequent story would "explain" that the 50s "Commie Smasher" Cap was a mentally-unstable imposter.)
THIS is the guy who's been running around the Marvel universe since 1964, and the consistent characterization has been that of a decidedly nonpolitical good vs. evil "big picture" WWII-style hero who has to find his "place" in a more complicated modern world.
On the rare occasions when the "real" Captain America has taken a political/ethical stance on anything specific, it's seldom on the "nationalistic" side of things: He gave up the mantle during Watergate – guess why – and then again in the 80s rather than submit to government oversight of his actions.
(continued)
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Now, mind you, I'm not implying that you COULDN'T make a movie with a right-wing nationalistic Cap, just that it'd be a betrayal of about 50 years of the character's history – akin to having James Bond be a Soviet double-agent – to do so. So… I don't think they're gonna do that
Actually, the comic book character the Rock REALLY wants to play is Captain Marvel's archenemy, Black Adam:
http://www.popcultureshock.com/rock-black-adam/54...
I have to admit the Rock is a dead ringer for BA.
Re: the USO plot —
Clearly, they're adapting the extremely common WWII practice of yanking aces and heroes off the front lines and sticking their butts into selling war bonds. In some ways, this was sensible; but in many ways, it was a tone-deaf FDR left wing move. It also broke a lot of those heroes, because the PTSD and the shock of going from front line to fete was very rough and caused them a lot of survivor guilt. You'll remember the guy from Iwo Jima who ended up a drunk thanks to his war bond tour.
I guess they don't want to get into war bond de-romanticization, so they make it the USO instead.
I meant to say I picture Adam as Mitch Rapp, not as Vince Flynn.
Either Jim Caviezel or Adam Baldwin would be a good choice. Captain America should be a seasoned warrior not someone who shaves once a week.
Yeah its not. You just made generic Image Comics hero #323. Give him a tweet worthy name and make sure his female sidekick has massive mams and they'll probably give you a limited run based on that right up. But that's not Captain America.
I'd love to see Adam Baldwin in the film, but he doesn't look like Captain America. But Baldwin playing one of the other heavy hitting Invaders like the Blazing Skull or the Destroyer. Hell possibly even the Golden Age android Human Torch. Any of those would allow Baldwin to bring the glowering menace he plays so well.
But Cap needs to look like a Hollywood leading man (Blond hair, square jaw, killer smile), that was part of the original point.
Um tell that to stephen colberts lifesize replica of the captain america shield. Im fairly sure both sides like him.
You do of course realize that there are also many left leaning immigrants right? Your two groups, liberals and immigrants aren't nearly mutually exclusive enough for your statement to make sense.
You do realize that the article describes a very pro america conservative approach right? Or did you not bother to read before you decried the evils of "big hollywood"?
Is this a bad idea or th worst idea ever? Fact of the matter is, taking a 60 year old super hero story and turning it into a propaganda peace for the war on terrorism is NOT okay. It demeans a good cause by using extremely subverse and cheap media techniques. What you suggest is lowering the right side to the liberals level.
Ben Ryan as the super soldier. And Re-title it as CAPTAIN AMERICA: Sentinel of Liberty, as it should've been since technically he's not the FIRST Avenger. I really like how it's like the other origin movies, it has bookends which take place in modern times. I'm thinking they opt to make S.H.I.E.L.D find Captain America, buried in ice, somewhere in Antarctica. The thaw him out and revive him, but he's in a coma due to shock. Nick Fury bring a bag with the newly refurbished shield, that we saw a glimpse of in Iron Man, at lay it at his bedside. Then Fury mentions a few things about the war, Steve's closed eyes twitch as he hears Fury and start having his flashback, and this is where Steve's story begins. At the end they should show Steve awake and putting on the suit. Nick Fury issues him a welcome, and says "Allow me to introduce you to your team" and we see Iron Man, Thor, Ant-Man WASP, and Bruce Banner (The incredible Hulk) -end credits- the should also have post credits of The Red Skull coming back
something to that effect. Oh yeah and the movie should be heavy on pro American propaganda. USA!
excuse me, "UNLIKE the other origin movies"
Oh yeah, I'm sure he could beat the snot out of me in real life, but real life and film are two different things. He doesn't look anymore masculine or intimidating than Butler or Rockwell (much less so in my opinion) and height really doesn't make much of a difference in film or in terms of "toughness". There are a lot of tough guys under 6 feet. I know some guys over 6 feet who would make absolute clowns as Captain America.
I know some guys over 6 feet who would make absolute clowns as Captain America.
Yeah, gGuys like Will Smith, whose name has often been mentioned as a potential Cap by Hollywood for years. On the exact opposite end of the height spectrum, a hobbit like Tom Cruise would also be in the running for the role because he's an A-list movie star that couldn't when a fight with a poodle in real life but as you said: "real life and film are two different things."
Look, give the guy a buzz but and the uniform and you'd be surprised. Have you seen Crowder play the school bully in To Save A Life yet? He was convincing in that d-bag unbalanced jock guy role which would normally have gone to Matthew Lillard…
Don't go mad all BUT it's going to be Channing Tatum everyone. The guy has the looks of Captain Amercia and the voice. Before, you start hating on him, every website I have checked on re Captain Amercia his name has come into the mix more than anyone else.
Whether you like his acting or not (it's getting better and better with each role). I think he was born to do this role. I just have this feeling that it will be him, maybe I will be proved wrong but he does look the obvious choice.
He was extremely good in Dear John and the man is everywhere at the moment. If he does get this role I hope the fanbase will support him because he might just surprise ALL of us and do a fantastic job. There are some actors whom you never think will be ideal for certain roles then they kill it by being great so let's wait and see the final choice for Captain Amercia.
I wish they will hurry up….
No, I haven't seen that film.
I get your point and agree that Will Smith is a terrible choice for this role, as is Tom Cruise, but I really can't see Crowder as Captain America. It's possible, and I'll hold judgment on his acting abilities until I actually witness them, but I suppose my main contention was with what your comment suggested: Crowder is more masculine than Butler or Rockwell. It's quite possible in real life, but I don't think that particularly translates onto the screen. I don't know how tall Butler is, but he looks fairly imposing in some of his movies.
I heard recently it will be Pine – Kirk from new ST.
I almost hope it isn't, he will be in one sequel happy series I think this will be too much.
So… basically from the non response it is only me and my wife thinking Sayer from Lost would be perfect – a diamond in the rough as it were… oh well, I'm used to being a minority…
[...] version, going back to his roots as an anti-Nazi warrior. Apparently one subtext will be how Captain America learns to appreciate America while fighting for her. One can hardly [...]
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