Official Casting News

[Moderator]

I have the official go-ahead to announce that Ron Howard/Universal has offered Javier Bardem the part of Roland. I do not know if he has accepted the offer but chances are they wouldn't make this announcement if he wasn't considering it. The announcement was made through Deadline Hollywood--here's the link (http://www.deadline.com/?s=Javier+Bardem) for the full story.

[Roland de Gilead]

:down: :sad: I hope that Bardem does not agree, do not want that it interprets Roland :sad:

[Moderator]

Steve is happy with the offer and thinks it is "a very good choice."

[Roland de Gilead]

Ok, Ms. Mod.
Javier Barden is a good actor but I do not see it as Rland.
I hope to be mistaken and that it realizes an excellent interpretation.

Long days and Pleasant nights.....

[Roland de Gilead]

If Steve I satisfy this one, I also.

Thanks a lot.

[Moderator]

Guess we'll have to wait and see. :smile2: Viggo Mortensen had been in the running also but I don't know if he was offered the part and declined. A lot of people thought he would be a poor choice because they associated him with his portrayal of Aragorn from LOTR.

[Bev Vincent]

I like Bardem a lot more than the other two people whose names were bandied about. He was fantastic in No Country for Old Men, and the salvation of Eat, Pray, Love. I think he's one of those guys who can become something completely different in each role, so I like this. I agree with the Mortensen issue. I was still holding out for Timothy Olyphant, who proved in Justified that he can wear a stetson and shoot a man down without blinking.

[JohnDalglish]

I agree with the Mortensen issue.

Hi,

Moi aussi.

The way I see it, if Sai King is happy I'm happy, good luck to Bardem.

Long days and pleasant nights

[Moderator]

Will be interesting to see if they have him wear tinted contacts or will just skip over the blue bombardier's eyes.

[Bev Vincent]

That's one of the interesting things about being partly colorblind -- I don't notice things like that. What color are Bardem's eyes?

[apollocandy]

Out of the 3 names seriously considered, I would have listed him second. But I'm pretty happy with all 3 of them, so whoever gets it is good in my books.

I agree with Timophy Olyphant though, that dude does Cold like nobodies business! Hes fantastic in everything.

[Moderator]

That's one of the interesting things about being partly colorblind -- I don't notice things like that. What color are Bardem's eyes?

Brown

[JohnDalglish]

Brown

Hi,

I think they'll have to use coloured contacts as I think it's important that Roland's eyes are blue.

But then, I would say that, wouldn't I?

I'm still hoping for T-Bone Burnett to get the (huge) job of coordinating the music.

Long days and pleasant nights

[Smokescreen1982]

I've never seen Bardem in anything so all I've got to go on is that he doesn't look like the Roland in my mind :laugh:

[hossenpepper]

I really think Hugh Jackman would be the best choice for Roland of the current choice of actors. But what do I know?

And hey, it's Steve's story, so if he is happy, well then what else is there to say...

[hossenpepper]

Hi,


I'm still hoping for T-Bone Burnett to get the (huge) job of coordinating the music.



Most definitely John. I am assuming you have seen 'Crazy Heart"? He did a fantastic job with the music in that. I also think Danny Elfman's composing abilities should make an appearance in the DT.

[JohnDalglish]

And hey, it's Steve's story, so if he is happy, well then what else is there to say...

Hi,

Exactly, that's my attitude to any decisions at all on casting and etc. to do with he movies.

If it's okay with him then I'm happy.

Long days and pleasant nights

Pee Ess - I dreamed recently that they used the original Ennio Morricone music from the spaghetti westerns but remixed by one of the current crop of remixers - David Guetta, Tiesto or Jay-Z maybe. Well, it sounded great in the dream anyway!

[vickita]

Will be interesting to see if they have him wear tinted contacts or will just skip over the blue bombardier's eyes.
What will be will be, but that is a very resonant detail and I wouldn't want it left out.

[Connie Reader]

I think he's a great choice. Known, but not too well known. Good looking, but rugged. I'm just so stoked for this project to get underway!!!!!!!!!

I think that they would have him wear contacts. It's done all the time.

[muskrat]

I'm happy as a clam with the decision! Bardem is a good actor, and can be a mean bastid. Gotta have those contact lenses, though, cause "Won't it make his brown eyes blue..." (Yeah, like anyone remembers Crystal Gayle...)

Oh, this is good news--worth drinking over! And I'm so glad it won't be Viggo--he's a fine actor, but for me, he's no Roland. "The man in black fled across the desert, and the dude that played Aragorn followed..." Ugh...

[kellykid]

[QUOTE=muskrat;425834], cause "Won't it make his brown eyes blue..." (Yeah, like anyone remembers Crystal Gayle...)

I remeber..saw her open for Kenny Rogers waaaay back when.
Don't know how I feel about this choice, I have to admit that I haven't seen any of his movies.

[Connie Reader]

I'm happy as a clam with the decision! Bardem is a good actor, and can be a mean bastid. Gotta have those contact lenses, though, cause "Won't it make his brown eyes blue..." (Yeah, like anyone remembers Crystal Gayle...)

Oh, this is good news--worth drinking over! And I'm so glad it won't be Viggo--he's a fine actor, but for me, he's no Roland. "The man in black fled across the desert, and the dude that played Aragorn followed..." Ugh...

hahahah!!! So true...love him but not as Roland.

and I remember Crystal Gayle! I was enthralled by her super long hair...

[skyrow]

I always invisioned Billy Bob Thorton as Roland. It just fits perfectly in my mind. Either way I'm super excited, I feel like I have been waiting for this forever until I realize most of you HAVE really been waiting forever, or since the books came out. Also, they need to cast Colin Farrell for Eddie. He's PERFECT.

[Flipsk8emerica]

Javier Bardiem will be great if he accepts although i still think Daniel Day Lewis would have fit the part perfect. Keep in mind whoever accepts the role of Roland isn't going to have much time to act in other films so Bardiem might not accept. Whover takes on this part better really love the character.

[muskrat]

OH CRAP! I never even thought about Billy Bob! Hah! That'd be sweet! Whoah...He's gotta show up somewhere in this thing...maybe in the 'Calla! Lordy, Billy Bob could sling some mean Calla-speak, now couldn't he?

(Heck, I'm so jazzed--my nipples will be hard for weeks--and I'm a dude!)

[fushingfeef]

I think it's a very good choice.

Bardem is a great actor and he has that rare ability to have so much presence without saying anything (or saying very little). Just like Roland. He does the "stoic and mysterious" thing just perfectly, with a nice semi-sinister edge to it that Viggo may have lacked. Viggo is mainly seen as heroic. Roland, while certainly heroic, also had that anti-hero quality where you knew he would stop at NOTHING if it got in his way of the Tower. Could you really see Viggo sacrificing Jake? Bardem has that "nothing can stop him" quality; in "No Country For Old Men" he plays a frightening man, yet a principled man, but they are HIS twisted principles, not someone else's. No one can sway him. I could not be more happy with this choice. To me, this is very exciting news, it shows they are taking this movie seriously!

Yeah, the blue eyes thing will be interesting. I'd have to see how he looks with blue contacts (or CGI eyes). If it looks odd or distracting, I would rather they just let him regular eye color, even though in my mind Roland will always have those great pale blue eyes.

[kingricefan]

Although Bardem may be a fine actor, I don't think he is a good choice for Roland. Let's not forget that he is up for an Acadeny Award this year and he or his people may think that (if he wins) doing a feature film or two and then doing episodes of TV and then more feature films based on the DT books may not be worth his (their) time. He is not what I pictured as Roland at all. I'd much rather have Viggo playing that part, he is who I have always pictured in the last few years. I think Viggo is such a good actor that he would be able to make you forget that he was in the Lord of the Ring movies, plus he knows what demands would be made upon him if he was to commit to these films (and TV). Whomever gets this role is going to be very very busy for quite awhile. I don't think Ron Howard is a good choice for director either (I'm thinking the two Davinci Code movies). But, it's just my opinion.

[bobledrew]

Hey, we're all here to share opinions. I've not seen a lot of Bardem, but I look at it this way -- Howard, Grazer, et al are investing a #$(*TU# of a lotta dough in this. They've decided that Bardem's the dude (for possible reasons of box office appeal, "fit" for the part, willingness to commit to the entire enterprise, whatever...) and they probably have some good reasons for it. In the end, it will either work or it won't.

As to Mortenson, he seems to be a tough nut to crack on casting, according to these stories about LOTR (http://www.viggo-works.com/index.php?page=2323).

[johnny39]

Excellent choice.

In case where it's pick the better actor or the guy who looks more like you imagined the character I go with better actor 10 out of 10 times.

Not to mention, Bardem has a very hard look that will play really well with the character. I think this is the best choice by far.

[boogerb53]

I can live with this....Yesssss.......:love: :laugh:

[boogerb53]

That's one of the interesting things about being partly colorblind -- I don't notice things like that. What color are Bardem's eyes?

Two word Bev....Colored Contacts...:smile2:

[hossenpepper]

Seriously? Noone else here thinks Jackman should play Roland?? I mean really?

Look at this:

11056

Or this:

11057

No? Am I crazy?

[Nevets_sdoow]

I'm sure Javier will do well enough for me to be content with — he can be intimidating, and he looks rugged and whatnot. I am worried about his accent though; for while Roland may have troubles with pronunciation at times, I can't really imagine him having those troubles with a Spanish accent.

I would have been a bit more than content if it had been Viggo Mortensen though (hopefully he's still an option). Aside from the fact that he looks absolutely perfect for the part, in my humble opinion, he's also a fantastic actor. I can't really understand the assumptions by people that he can't be cold or threatening enough. I suppose these are assumptions by those who were big Lord Of The Rings fans or those who haven't seen enough of his previous works, because on such films as Eastern Promises and A History of Violence there were times that I feared he was going to hurt someone lol.

Hopefully if Javier gets the part he'll at least attempt to lose the accent and get a little more lean. But I'm still grasping onto what hope I can to get Viggo.

[Suzana]

Steve is happy with the offer and thinks it is "a very good choice."

totally agree with Mr. King. He doesn't have blue eyes, but that's what contacts are for, huh?
:cool2:

[Goodlovin]

I think that is a flat out brilliant idea to offer him that role.

[Goodlovin]

Seriously? Noone else here thinks Jackman should play Roland?? I mean really?

Look at this:

11056

Or this:

11057

No? Am I crazy?

Roland should be a good looking guy to a degree but shouldn't be of the pretty boy variety like Jackman.

Lets also face the fact Javier brings a much better set of acting chops to the roll than Jackman could bring.

[Radge]

Does one one know how you and I can apply as an extra for the series or movie?

[Moderator]

I haven't heard anything yet about casting for extras.

[jenniegeo]

How could they skip it??? To me, that is essential Rloand..

[boogerb53]

Seriously? Noone else here thinks Jackman should play Roland?? I mean really?

Look at this:

11056

Or this:

11057

No? Am I crazy?

YOU WILL TAKE JAVIER BARDEM YOUNG MAN AND YOU WILL LIKE HIM! THERE ARE POOR CHILDREN IN CHINA WHO WOULD LOVE TO HAVE JAVIER BARDEM! :biggrin2:

[K4driver]

my opinion on Most Stephen King movies If it is good for Sai King it is USUALLY good for me.

[hossenpepper]

I like Bardem, but last I checked Roland was supposed to be modeled after Clinet Eastwood as Blondie in the spaghettis, and there is no actor around today that looks like Clint Eastwood more than Jackman.

But again, I just read the story and that is as far as my influendce goes.

[Seb Shaw]

Javiar Bardem is a very fine actor.
Is one of 8 actors to have won the Academy Award, BAFTA Award, Critics' Choice Award, Golden Globe Award and SAG Award for the same performance.
To portray Reinaldo Arenas, Javier not only learned Cuban-Spanish, but Cuban-accented English, and lost 30 pounds to better resemble the smaller-framed Arenas. -- So basically this guy will do WHATEVER it takes to get his performance spot on! :D

A fantastic choice, a surprising one, but I'm glad the movie is getting the right treatment! :D

[Connie Reader]

hahahha!! good stuff Boogerb53

[R.Deschain]

MS. Mod, is there a way to get clarification on the articles that claim Jennifer Carpenter is up for the role of either Susan, or Susannah? If those are even valid tidbits, as it was in the same article that claimed Christian Bale was a front runner for the Roland. Not sure she'd be right for either character, but she would be really wrong for Susannah. Now Mia on the other hand...

[~Ally~]

YOU WILL TAKE JAVIER BARDEM YOUNG MAN AND YOU WILL LIKE HIM! THERE ARE POOR CHILDREN IN CHINA WHO WOULD LOVE TO HAVE JAVIER BARDEM! :biggrin2:

There's a wee English lassie here who would also love to have him! :blush:

(My hearts still set on Viggo though.:love:)

[rjt65]

oh susannah--- rumors or can MR steve confirm any other casting ooooooooo this is exciting!!!!!

http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2011/01/27/dark-tower-christian-bale-javier-bardem/

[MyLife4YouSK]

Good one, Booger! ;) I'm happy with the choice., course I'm not too familiar with Javier..he better frickin have blue contacts though! I don't know what I'll do if he doesn't, maybe go insane? Srsly.
I am glad Viggo is out., but would have settled for Jackman I suppose. Do we know when this will be finalized? Should I have read that link Ms Mod supplied? hehe

Long days....all. Long days indeed! I want SPRING! frickin snow

ps. Check out the S.K.Trivia group. New contest!

[JayneH]

Guess we'll have to wait and see. :smile2: Viggo Mortensen had been in the running also but I don't know if he was offered the part and declined. A lot of people thought he would be a poor choice because they associated him with his portrayal of Aragorn from LOTR.

no no no no !!!! Will always be on team Viggo !!!! but just googled this other guy and can kind of see it ... hope he does it justice.
I just hope we dont all watch it and go "Viggo could have done it better" :oh:

[Baz]

He has the right look. v close to the Roland of the minds eye though would never of thought of him. Viggo has the eyes Javier has the features. he has the look of a man that will stop at nothing.. that'll do. i am curious about the eyes im guessin theyll use specially made Roland contacts. lookin forward to more bits of news like who will play the Man In Black. long days an pleasant nights

[GNTLGNT]

YOU WILL TAKE JAVIER BARDEM YOUNG MAN AND YOU WILL LIKE HIM! THERE ARE POOR CHILDREN IN CHINA WHO WOULD LOVE TO HAVE JAVIER BARDEM! :biggrin2:


Okey-dokey...let's see what I've learned from these posts-China is over-run by cannabilistic juveniles, Crystal Gayle dated Hugh Jackman and I sorta like the choice for Roland as long as he has iris replacement surgery and they retouch them blue...

[fushingfeef]

I was wondering about Bardem's voice too, he can obviously do different accents very well, but I was just wondering what High Speech is going to sound like. It's going to be a great trip!

I think being less known than Jackman and Mortenson played into this...I can't imagine those guys doing the whole television thing at this stage of their careers.

[JohnDalglish]

I was wondering about Bardem's voice too, he can obviously do different accents very well, but I was just wondering what High Speech is going to sound like.

Hi,

I haven't actually heard the audio version of DT myself, but I've heard nothing but great things about it so perhaps he should turn to Frank Muller for inspiration?

Long days and pleasant nights

[Spideyman]

Hi,

I haven't actually heard the audio version of DT myself, but I've heard nothing but great things about it so perhaps he should turn to Frank Muller for inspiration?

Long days and pleasant nights


That is something I have been wondering about- the script writers ,Ron Howard and the actors to be named ----- have they/ will they read the books? Will they also listen to the audiobooks? I've taken the journey via books many times, and must admit now listening to the audio has struck a new cord with me. High Speech is awesome when spoken, John.

[Moderator]

MS. Mod, is there a way to get clarification on the articles that claim Jennifer Carpenter is up for the role of either Susan, or Susannah? If those are even valid tidbits, as it was in the same article that claimed Christian Bale was a front runner for the Roland. Not sure she'd be right for either character, but she would be really wrong for Susannah. Now Mia on the other hand...

I'd asked yesterday when I read the first post about this rumor but haven't received a response.

[CoolhandLocke]

Bardem wouldn't be bad, i've seen several of his movies and think he could pull it off. That being said i would of rather had Viggo or Bale. Never even thought about Bale actually till i saw that on the net but he actually would be really good as Roland imo, he's VERY method and could do a nice job. As for Billy Bob...he'd be a good Sheb lol, i'd love to see Ed Norton or Cillian Murphy as Eddie Dean though!

[Shadowtron]

Visually, Bardem isn't my first choice. I've travelled with these characters for so long that I have a certain image for each of them. And Roland is a tall, gangly blue-eyed, scruffy, dirty, caucasian...in my mind. However, I have no problem with his casting (if he was indeed cast). He's a terrific actor and I know he can pull off Roland's stoicism. Hell, he did as much in No Country...and nabbed on Oscar. So i look forward to his performance.

[Moderator]

MS. Mod, is there a way to get clarification on the articles that claim Jennifer Carpenter is up for the role of either Susan, or Susannah? If those are even valid tidbits, as it was in the same article that claimed Christian Bale was a front runner for the Roland. Not sure she'd be right for either character, but she would be really wrong for Susannah. Now Mia on the other hand...

Have had it confirmed that it's definitely just a rumor.

[CoolhandLocke]

Now that it's confirmed Carpenter was a rumor for Susannah.....was Bale a rumor too being as it was in the same article? I know I'm digging lol, but he's one of my fav actors so i had to put it out there. Also wondering if any of the leads for Roland have actually read the source material or are fans of King in general. I tried to google it a bit but really got nothing.

On a side note as a huge lost fan (and i know Mr. King is) would be nice to see Matthew Fox a part somewhere in the movies/series. Always thought he was an excellent actor going back to his Party of Five days. Anyone who watched Lost knows he's a man that can & will do whatever it takes to get the job done, no matter who or what's in the way....sound like anyone else we know lol?

[Moderator]

I don't have a list of the potential cast choices so can neither confirm nor deny whether Christian Bale was ever in the running for the part. I also don't have inside information as to whether any of the actors have read the series or are fans of Stephen's work. I don't think it was a factor in who has been considered, though. But it hasn't ever been a factor in any of the other productions that have been done over the years that I'm aware of either.

[hossenpepper]

I also don't have inside information as to whether any of the actors have read the series or are fans of Stephen's work. I don't think it was a factor in who has been considered, though.

SACRILEGE!!!! :-P

[Marie-Pierre Bonjour]

Please Mister King, don't let that happen !!!! Javier Bardem can not be Roland !!! That would be non-sens!

[Moderator]

Sorry, but he's quite happy with the choice. In fact, when I spoke with him this morning he told me when he thinks of Javier Bardem, he sees Roland.

[CCAL]

YES!! This makes me very happy! I never saw NCFOM but I read the book while hubby had heart surgery,(it was that or lose my little pea-pickin mind). I googled Javier Bardem and thought his likeness was spot on. The blue eyes is not a problem.Ever book you read these days speaks of cold hearted blue eyed men, and drooling sweet warm hearted brown eyed men....I have known some cold hearted brown eyed men/people. Blue is just a color and a silly analogy anyway. maybe writers need a wakeup call on that one....hmmm:eyebrow:

[Spideyman]

SACRILEGE!!!! :-P

Mayhap not as a prerequisite to be chosen as an actor, but for understand, insight, feel for each character, the meaning of Ka-Tet and of Ka. More so for the script writers. One might suggest the audio books as Steve himself said in the Author's Afterword of Wolves of Calla:
"I listened to them- all sixty or so cassettes- while preparing to finish the gunslinger's story. Audio is the perfect medium for such exhaustive preparations, because audio insists you absorb everything: your hurrying eye ( or occasionally tired mind ) cannot skip so much as a single word."

[JohnDalglish]

Mayhap not as a prerequisite to be chosen as an actor, but for understand, insight, feel for each character, the meaning of Ka-Tet and of Ka. More so for the script writers. One might suggest the audio books as Steve himself said in the Author's Afterword of Wolves of Calla:
"I listened to them- all sixty or so cassettes- while preparing to finish the gunslinger's story. Audio is the perfect medium for such exhaustive preparations, because audio insists you absorb everything: your hurrying eye ( or occasionally tired mind ) cannot skip so much as a single word."

Hi,

Yes, it's fortunate that the audio version is so highly rated as many people in the movie business seem to have a problem actually reading 'books'.

Let's hope that everyone involved in the movie project at least istens to the audo.

Long days and pleasant nights

[CoolhandLocke]

I agree.. i have tried a few audio books in the past but i mainly stick with actual books it's just not the same for me personally. I remember Ron Howard in an interview saying he was listening to the books over and over living with it, etc..but i can't remember if he said he had read them. I have seen interviews in the past with certain "method" actors and they would read the books then the script but i guess it varies from person to person. I guess if your a producer/director you may have so much going on that audio is much easier but i could see how some things would get lost in translation so to speak. I guess the whole audio vs book version is one of those "tomato/tomatoe" things lol...

I've also noticed alot of people & fans saying they haven't read the full series of books, they would stop reading after certain ones because they didn't like the story or for another reason. I did have that problem with a few of them but it was more from "reading fatigue"..wanting to get through a certain part because i was dying to see what would happen next. I've read the first original book about 8 times & the rest of the series books at least 2 times...except for the last book which was just once. I took me 2 years to make myself read it (and stay away from spoilers) because i just didn't want the story to end lol...

[~Ally~]

Hmm, I read today that Bardem is apparently stalling in accepting the role of "Roland" as he has been offered the part of James Bonds nemesis in the next "007" movie.
Maybe there's hope for us "Viggo" lovers yet! :y:

[Connie Reader]

I love Viggo, but I just don't like him for Roland. He's too...sweet somehow. Probably just his role as Aragorn coloring my opinion, but there it is.

[CoolhandLocke]

Hmm, I read today that Bardem is apparently stalling in accepting the role of "Roland" as he has been offered the part of James Bonds nemesis in the next "007" movie.
Maybe there's hope for us "Viggo" lovers yet! :y:

I read the same thing, i'm betting Bardem won't be Roland. Think the article said he wanted to read the Bond script before making his mind up about that role and I haven't heard him make a peep in the news about anything Dark Tower related since he was offered the role. I'd be fine without him though, just like to get our Roland nailed down and see this thing get rolling. Would be bad if Bardem dragged his feet didn't take it then Viggo & Bale got tied up. If Bale was even actually in contention they need to nail him quick, i would say he is going to be getting alot more offers because of the awards he's getting for the fighter.

[milkguy420]

Most definitely John. I am assuming you have seen 'Crazy Heart"? He did a fantastic job with the music in that. I also think Danny Elfman's composing abilities should make an appearance in the DT.

i prefer Howard Shore for his work on LOTR.

[AntD NineNineteen]

Yeah, of the three names mentioned for the role of old long, tall, and ugly I was definitely pulling for Bale. I love Viggo, and Bardem is an incredible actor (HUGE NCFOM fan, me) but Bale engulfs himself in a role like no one except maybe Daniel Day Lewis. Anyone who has seen "The Machinist" knows what I'm talking about. I for one will give Bardem the benefit of the doubt for now (if it's good enough for Mr. King who am I to disagree?) but I am currently reading through TDT series for the second time (just started vol. 7.... again) and this weekend I was trying to picture Roland with Bardems face as I read and no matter how hard I tried I just couldn't do it for the life of me. Then again, had I read No Country before seeing the film JB would have been the furthest from my mind while envisioning Anton Chigurh so I'm not all that disappointed with this news. One thing is certain, they could do a LOT worse!

[milkguy420]

i prefer Howard Shore for his work on LOTR.

or Ennico Marricone from all the Sergio Leone westerns.

[coolambindang]

IDK. I think I like Bardem as Roland. Seems like he could put a cool spin on an accent for the High Speech. We must remember, Roland is not from our world, so a slight accent would really bring something to the part. He also has the size and look of a Roland, at least when I think of him. As for the eyes I don't think it well be a big deal. Viggo, I would not want to see as Roland. I doubt he would accept, he is so closely related to LOTR that I would think he would not want to be associated with another work that is so closely followed and loved. I like Christian Bale but IDK, would he be a good Roland? As for the people pulling for Hugh Jackman? No way. Hugh Jackman is like half the man Roland is, way too small. They would have to stand him on a crate for every shot to make him look bigger. HAHAHAHAHA. Just my humble opinion.

[JohnDalglish]

or Ennico Marricone from all the Sergio Leone westerns.

Hi,

Aye, I had a dream about the music recently, believe it or not.

And the incidental music was all Morricone's but remixed and brought RIGHT up-to-date by one of the current crop of remixers - David Guetta, Tiesto or Jay-Z came to mind.

Long days and pleasant nights

[Brian]

I have long thought that techno is the best music for many parts of DT. It just goes so well.

JD, check out Kyrie (Club Mix) by Corderoy. I think you will agree, its pretty cool for a horse chase or gunfight.

[blunthead]

I would be happy with Bardem as Roland. Whenever I am as impressed with an actor I see for the first time as much as I was with him in No Country..., that actor becomes a life-long favorite. Of course, I never pictured Roland looking anything like Bardem. But a great actor, with a great director (and I do trust Howard to have an eye for excellence), will quickly convince us we had it wrong. Plus, Bardem has sK's endorsement.

In any movie there can be excellent casting or not so excellent. I hope the casting choices are believable and that the actors have great chemistry. I can't wait!

[jagermaster22]

As long as it is not Tom Cruise.At first i was iffy about Bardem,but i think this shows that they are looking for an edge to these movies.

[DoctorSwerve]

Bardem to me seems like a perfect fit for Roland. Roland is a character that is frightening at times, yet has a soft side. I've seen both of these characteristics in his previous films.

As far as Viggo, Bale, Daniel Craig, or whoever, I'm sorry, but they have never had that frightening quality in any of their films, and I've seen a lot of them.

Bardem is Roland, contacts or not.

[JohnDalglish]

As long as it is not Tom Cruise..

Hi,

Aye *shudders*

For small mercies ......

Long days and pleasant nights

[~Ally~]

As far as Viggo, Bale, Daniel Craig, or whoever, I'm sorry, but they have never had that frightening quality in any of their films, and I've seen a lot of them.

Really? I dunno, Viggo was pretty damn convincingly scary in "A History of Violence." In "The Road" he effortlessly portrayed a man in a post apocalyptic world, determined to fight for survival to protect his son, whilst performing the arduous and bleak task of trekking across country, on foot, in all kinds of weather/terrain, and fighting unknown danger. Sound even vaguely familiar?

I like Bardem, so far he has proven himself to be a fine actor, but when it comes to character acting, Viggo is amazing. Whenever I watch him I don't think "hey it's Viggo!" He always seems to be the person he is playing. I have no doubt he could play long, tall and ugly.

[Connie Reader]

Bardem to me seems like a perfect fit for Roland. Roland is a character that is frightening at times, yet has a soft side. I've seen both of these characteristics in his previous films.

As far as Viggo, Bale, Daniel Craig, or whoever, I'm sorry, but they have never had that frightening quality in any of their films, and I've seen a lot of them.

Bardem is Roland, contacts or not.

I'm totally pro Bardem as Roland, mostly because I don't know him as anything else and he definitely looks like a good Roland. I do have to disagree with Bale not being frightening. He was pretty damn intense in American Psycho! yikes!
I didn't think of Daniel Craig, and he could do a great job, but I just want someone unknown. Unfound!

[DoctorSwerve]

True, in A History of Violence, Viggo played a violent man, but to me, he wasn't scary. I don't know, to me, Roland almost has that berserker mode, where he indiscriminately annihilates, but afterwards will show remorse. I got chills with some of Roland's actions. Viggo never brought that out with his violent characters. Viggo is good just doesn't seem big enough to play Roland.

[CoolhandLocke]

After initially not being for Bardem in the role, i have officially changed my mind. I looked at alot of headshots on google images and i honestly can see him as Roland now. Always said he was a great actor, but just wasn't sure....if you check out some of the images online, especially the really rough looking ones i can really see him in the part now. As mentioned i think his speech/accent could actually help the part in a way as Roland had trouble pronouncing several words.

Keep the blue eyes though lol, you HAVE to keep the blue eyes....i actually think it would work really well with him if they don't go to blue with the contacts it will really stand out from his looks. Now if he would just say SOMETHING about the role lol, drives me nuts that i don't think he's made one single comment since being offered the part but has commented a few times on the Bond role. Don't think we well get any parts cast until we get Rolands part down...

[chris2-4]

I think Bardem is a pretty good choice . I just want to see it all come together . Still think they should do an animated DT.

[Roseasharn]

i'm not sure who this part should go to and I wouldn't want to be the one to decide.
We've all lived with DT for years, for me it's been 18, for others it is 30+. Whoever does the role, it is likely most of us won't see that guy as Roland. But that's where acting comes in.
Come on baby, convince me. :)
Good luck to the movie makers, man. This is going to be a tough one to get past the die hards. Including myself.

[saxplayer]

Hi eyes are brown.

[crimsonkingtph]

I've finally gone insane waiting for Bardem to say one little thing about The Dark Tower. I search google like a mad man hunting for one little wee comment from the guy. I knew nothing about him before this, now I know too much. I see comments about Bond and now I'm just waiting for him to say no to DT and yes to Bond. Or yes to both? Or no to both? By time this movie comes out I'll be a drooling mess.

[motocop]

Really? I dunno, Viggo was pretty damn convincingly scary in "A History of Violence." In "The Road" he effortlessly portrayed a man in a post apocalyptic world, determined to fight for survival to protect his son, whilst performing the arduous and bleak task of trekking across country, on foot, in all kinds of weather/terrain, and fighting unknown danger. Sound even vaguely familiar?

I like Bardem, so far he has proven himself to be a fine actor, but when it comes to character acting, Viggo is amazing. Whenever I watch him I don't think "hey it's Viggo!" He always seems to be the person he is playing. I have no doubt he could play long, tall and ugly.

I agree about Viggo. I think he could pull it off. He was practically Roland in "The Road". Taking care of that boy and everthing. Remember this movie. He looks pretty Rolandish right here doesnt he?

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/9/91/Hidalgo_film.jpg/220px-Hidalgo_film.jpg (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Hidalgo_film.jpg)

[CoolhandLocke]

I've honestly had to quit thinking about the casting lol. I really, really enjoy the conversations here (sooo glad i finally got on the site) on the subject but other sites not so much at all. The people on imdb are just damned killing me between the trolls and people's really, really, really horrible choices for casting. Wouldn't be so bad but there and on other related sites they are just so damned headstrong about casting and won't listen to valid arguments about "why it needs/has to be a big name for the lead" or "why Clint Eastwood won't be Roland" or my favorite...."Sean William Scott for Eddie" thread, that one kills me lol. Bad thing is i know as soon as they announce Roland it will get worse, don't think i have ever seen a movie board (for one that's unmade with NO cast) be that damned active & crazy. Think I'm staying away from imdb for awhile, it's active when this lovely place is closed but man...they are just frustrating, especially all the Howard haters. He's won Oscars people & his not a bad director at all, this genre is just new to him and has really never been done this way.... get over it lol.

It is nice to see fans are so rabid/crazy over it being made, but some of the statements make me wonder if they've actually read the books (or are just thinking wow another LOTR)...and how much attention they actually paid or if they finished the damned books. The absolute worst thing i've seen was a poster on imdb that started a thread wanting people to tell him how the last book ends...he had made it to Eddie being killed and wanted to know what else happened because he said couldn't wait to know. WTF??? How could you go through the whole tale (if he actually did) get to that point and say SPOIL IT lol. Maybe i have a different opinion but when reading these books, as i said before it's like they are my friends..i took the journeys with them, hating to see them go but always love revisiting them. Brrrr i'm ranting now, i won't even get started about how kids don't read enough now a days lol...

[JohnDalglish]

Brrrr i'm ranting now, i won't even get started about how kids don't read enough now a days lol...

Hi,

Not ranting IMO.

I agree, and I wonder how DT7 will work on the screen when everyone will know the ending, but SFA about the journey?

Certainly the ending will have lost all of it's impact by then, I think.

Long days and pleasant nights

[Garriga]

I don't know why people got so upset about the ending. a story doesn't always have a happy ending. I actually like the ending it reminded me that life is a wheel......remember.......

[motocop]

You think SK will do a cameo of himself in the movie, when he meets Roland in his kitchen? Wouldnt that be awesome? CGI can make him look like 70s King too. Assuming those scenes make it to the screen.

[blunthead]

You think SK will do a cameo of himself in the movie, when he meets Roland in his kitchen? Wouldnt that be awesome? CGI can make him look like 70s King too. Assuming those scenes make it to the screen.

What a grand idea!

[Ducky]

Pee Ess - I dreamed recently that they used the original Ennio Morricone music from the spaghetti westerns but remixed by one of the current crop of remixers - David Guetta, Tiesto or Jay-Z maybe. Well, it sounded great in the dream anyway!

Wow! You dream good dreams, John! :laugh:

[Ducky]

Oh, this is good news--worth drinking over! And I'm so glad it won't be Viggo--he's a fine actor, but for me, he's no Roland. "The man in black fled across the desert, and the dude that played Aragorn followed..." Ugh...

:rofl::rofl::rofl::rofl::rofl:

[blunthead]

Hi,

Aye, I had a dream about the music recently, believe it or not.

And the incidental music was all Morricone's but remixed and brought RIGHT up-to-date by one of the current crop of remixers - David Guetta, Tiesto or Jay-Z came to mind.

Long days and pleasant nights

I think this is a perfect idea!

[JohnDalglish]

Wow! You dream good dreams, John! :laugh:

Hi,

Aye, indeed I do, I just wish I could remember more of them.

But you can hear Morricone's iconic music being revisited for the 21st century to great effect, can't you?

Long days and pleasant nights

Pee Ess - T-Bone Burnett for overall music supervisor!

T-Bone Burnett

[Spideyman]

Hi,

Not ranting IMO.

I agree, and I wonder how DT7 will work on the screen when everyone will know the ending, but SFA about the journey?


Thinking about that---- we all were read Disney's stories,thus knowing the endings, yet the movie versions were still something special. Think Cinderella, Snow White.
I tend to think for those who never read the books, the movies will give similar reactions as those we experienced in reading.
IMO, for those who did read the books, the ending will be a lesson re told- Ka is a wheel. And hopefully all will come to understand that it "is the journey not the ending" that mattered most.
Did knowing the ending spoil your re reads? Not for me- knowing the ending gave me freedom to relax and enjoy the journey all the more. And as the ending approached, I became even more one with Roland and experienced Ka.
Certainly the ending will have lost all of it's impact by then, I think.

Long days and pleasant nights
Certainly the ending will have lost all of it's impact by then, I think.

Long days and pleasant nights[/QUOTE]

[motocop]

Certainly the ending will have lost all of it's impact by then, I think.

Long days and pleasant nights[/QUOTE]

My suggestion to anyone who hasnt read the series is to get to work asap. Well you have 2 years so take your time on them. If I knew the ending before I read the books I dont think I would enjoy the journey as much. JMO.

[Spideyman]

oh my computer is acting up again- this was my reply to JOhnD #91- seems it got intertwined with Johns original post. Might make more sense now. Sorry..........

Thinking about that---- we all were read Disney's stories,thus knowing the endings, yet the movie versions were still something special. Think Cinderella, Snow White.
I tend to think for those who never read the books, the movies will give similar reactions as those we experienced in reading.
IMO, for those who did read the books, the ending will be a lesson re told- Ka is a wheel. And hopefully all will come to understand that it "is the journey not the ending" that mattered most.
Did knowing the ending spoil your re reads? Not for me- knowing the ending gave me freedom to relax and enjoy the journey all the more. And as the ending approached, I became even more one with Roland and experienced Ka.

[jagermaster22]

I think the casting of Eddie and Jake will be huge for these movies.Eddie is the comedy and Jake is a big part for a young actor portray.Can't wait to get more news.I vote for Tim Curry for the voice of Blaine.

[JohnDalglish]

oh my computer is acting up again- this was my reply to JOhnD #91- seems it got intertwined with Johns original post. Might make more sense now. Sorry..........

Thinking about that---- we all were read Disney's stories,thus knowing the endings, yet the movie versions were still something special. Think Cinderella, Snow White.
I tend to think for those who never read the books, the movies will give similar reactions as those we experienced in reading.
IMO, for those who did read the books, the ending will be a lesson re told- Ka is a wheel. And hopefully all will come to understand that it "is the journey not the ending" that mattered most.
Did knowing the ending spoil your re reads? Not for me- knowing the ending gave me freedom to relax and enjoy the journey all the more. And as the ending approached, I became even more one with Roland and experienced Ka.

Hi,

Ah, that makes fer more sense, thankee.

Very true, Spidey, I sit corrected, but Ill never forget the impact that the ending of DT had on me the first time I read it.

But I'd read LotR many times before I'd seen the movies and it certainly didn't lessen my enjoyment of the movies.

Long days and pleasant nights

[DwayneHoover]

I just watched Javier on The Tonight Show, and I think he would be perfect. He has a crazy ruff face, and way about him. Not a man of to many words. But when he does speak, he has an excellent command of the English language. And, I bet he dances a great Commala!

[R.Deschain]

You think SK will do a cameo of himself in the movie, when he meets Roland in his kitchen? Wouldnt that be awesome? CGI can make him look like 70s King too. Assuming those scenes make it to the screen.
Actually SK's son looks exactly like him, he could play young King. :)

And Javier, wtf dude? How long does it take to say yay or nay?!

[JohnDalglish]

I bet he dances a great Commala!

Hi,

Aye, that's an essential IMO

He's GOT to be capable of dancing great!

Long days and pleasant nights

[DwayneHoover]

Hi,

Aye, that's an essential IMO

He's GOT to be capable of dancing great!

Long days and pleasant nights

He sure does. You can't dance, you can't dance with death, or Calla folk. He also needs to be able to spin plates, ten at a time...wait...no...wrong medium all together. I was thinking of Art Linkletter.

[Crysm]

1131611315Bardem is too big for what I pictured. Timonthy Olypant (think Justified) is perfect, I think.
11314

[Connie Reader]

I think the casting of Eddie and Jake will be huge for these movies.Eddie is the comedy and Jake is a big part for a young actor portray.Can't wait to get more news.I vote for Tim Curry for the voice of Blaine.

Tim Curry...heck yes!

[kingricefan]

I don't know, Anthony Hopkins could be a good choice here, as Hannibal he has the power to 'charm' you with his voice while at the same time being menacing, maybe swarmy is the right word I'm looking for?

[JohnDalglish]

I don't know, Anthony Hopkins could be a good choice here, as Hannibal he has the power to 'charm' you with his voice while at the same time being menacing, maybe swarmy is the right word I'm looking for?

Hi,

Sir Anthony Hopkins IS Ted Brautigan to me!

Long days and pleasant nights

[CoolhandLocke]

I like Curry as the voice, although King saying he wanted to do it was cool. Also If you've seen "Moon" Kevin Spacey does a mean robotic voice lol.


had to do it being as this is the casting news thread....I wish we had some "actual" new casting news in this thread, i usually say it once a week & don't think I've whined about it this week yet so...lol. Maybe I'll hammer AICN to try to hit up bardem for a comment on the role, or even something from Howard would be nice. La Times got asked Bardem to talk about the Bond role and he commented saying he had even talked/met with the director Sam Mendes, but still nothing about DT we don't even know if he's met with Ron & DT part came before the bond part sooo... :sad: I just hope they aren't waiting on Bardem to commit before offering other roles as he is notoriously slow to commit to projects from what i've read online.

[gniknehpets]

I vote for Aaron Rodgers as Roland. He's got the eyes, the moves, the steely determination. And I've seen him do some great acting too...

[Ma Kin]

OH CRAP! I never even thought about Billy Bob! Hah! That'd be sweet! Whoah...He's gotta show up somewhere in this thing...maybe in the 'Calla! Lordy, Billy Bob could sling some mean Calla-speak, now couldn't he?

(Heck, I'm so jazzed--my nipples will be hard for weeks--and I'm a dude!)

LOL...that is so funny....thanks for the laugh.

[Ma Kin]

I heard Jim Carrey in my head the first time Blaine spoke. Still think he would be awesome lol.

[smpflueger]

I think I need to watch a few of Bardem's movies now.

[nate_watkins]

I think I need to watch a few of Bardem's movies now.

I watched No Country For Old Men a couple days ago. It was very good IMO. Bardem played the role very well. I'm curious to see how he'll do playing Roland.

[crimsonkingtph]

Holy crap! After hitting google up yet again I finally came across a wee bit of info. Of course nothing about Bardem saying yay, nay, I like to lay in hay. But it did mention Ron Howard is moving on with casting Jake and more. Yays! A wee bit of news! Woot!
Now Bardem needs to says something....please....AND THAT IS THE TRUTH.
Heres the bit from the article...

"OUT OF THIS WORLD: While Stephen King fans are absorbed in the hot speculation over Ron Howard's plans to adapt the novelist's "Dark Tower" series for film and television, Howard and co. are moving forward with casting for the first "Dark Tower" movie.

A potentially career-making role for an under-11-year-old boy is that of Jake Chambers, described as "the only child of an upper middle class Manhattan family who has visions of another world and is convinced he has something of cosmic importance to do" — while his family believes he's mentally unhinged. The flick is due to commence production in September in New York, with a 2013 release date already slated."

and the link: http://www.gouverneurtimes.com/dfw-section-f-artsentertainment/28665-gilles-marini-plans-gathering-of-dwts-pals-to-view-his-royal-pains-dance-guesting.html

Of course with my luck this will turn out to BS or something......

[CCAL]

Dont know any actors to fit that description right away. I'm stuck thinking of the lil boy (too old now tho!) who was in sixth sense...slender, pale, blonde hair perhaps...idk.Theres bound to be lots of talented youngsters who'd fit the bill.

[blunthead]

Dont know any actors to fit that description right away. I'm stuck thinking of the lil boy (too old now tho!) who was in sixth sense...slender, pale, blonde hair perhaps...idk.Theres bound to be lots of talented youngsters who'd fit the bill.

Yeah, Haley Joel Osment, I thought of him, too; for Jake. Despite his age I think it could be made to work. I really believe, though, that this role will be filled by a newcomer.

[JohnDalglish]

Hi,

I can't help thinking that DT is full of great cameo roles.

What about -
Kathy Bates as Rhea ( yeah, I know she's wrong physically, but she's a great actress and just think what she could bring to the role) or maybe Meryl Streep?
Billy Connelly as Tick Tock?
Steve Martin or Jim Carrey as Dandelo?
Johnny Depp as Eldred Jonas?
Ron Perlman or Bruce Willis as Cort?

Any suggestions?

Long days and pleasant nights

[blunthead]

Yesterday I was thinking Bates as Rhea. I think Carrey for Dandelo might be perfect. Perlman sounds good for Cort. Connelly is a good character actor and could be great as Tick Tock. I had pictured someone taller and older than Depp for Jonas but acting ability overrides such things (see Bates as Rhea).

Meanwhile, I have been considering...

The Man in Black - Kevin Spacey, Hugo Weaving, Ben Kingsley, or John Hurt
The Crimson King - John Lithgow
Father Callahan - John Lithgow or John Hurt
Stephen King - Stephen King (he looks great for his age and can easily be made to look younger--if necessary)
Sheemie Ruiz - Bill Fagerbakke (Tom Cullen in The Stand TV miniseries; possibly too old by now) or Paul Giamatti
Ted Brautigan - Anthony Hopkins (I want him in one of the movies ; so, he must be Brautigan)
Susan Delgado - Saoirse Ronan (of the movie [I]The Lovely Bones), Kirsten Dunst, Thora Birch, Mena Suvari, Natalie Portman, that's enough of that

[muskrat]

I wanna play Cuthbert. Listen, man...I look young for my age, and with copmuters (copmuters? What a concept!) ah hem, with COMPUTERS, anything is possible. Acting expirience? Well, I played a gingerbread kid in our high school production of Hansel And Gretel (of which I directed) so there's that. Hey, I'd do it for scale, and maybe a daily per diem to cover booze and cigarettes. I want my own trailer and a flunky bringing me cheezedoodles once every hour. And me and Ron Howard go WAYYY back. Shoot, I've been watching Andy Griffith since before I could talk! He owes me, man. And I can shoot. Slingshots SPOILER are my specialty. Think about it, folks.

Or I'll play Coral Thorin. I'm dynamite in a wig.

[blunthead]

I wanna play Cuthbert. Listen, man...I look young for my age, and with copmuters (copmuters? What a concept!) ah hem, with COMPUTERS, anything is possible. Acting expirience? Well, I played a gingerbread kid in our high school production of Hansel And Gretel (of which I directed) so there's that. Hey, I'd do it for scale, and maybe a daily per diem to cover booze and cigarettes. I want my own trailer and a flunky bringing me cheezedoodles once every hour. And me and Ron Howard go WAYYY back. Shoot, I've been watching Andy Griffith since before I could talk! He owes me, man. And I can shoot. Slingshots SPOILER are my specialty. Think about it, folks.

Or I'll play Coral Thorin. I'm dynamite in a wig.

Don't call us, we'll... (what's that... are you sure?). Hi, musk...rat. As a matter of fact we've been looking for alcoholic Stephen King/Andy Griffith smoking fans. At present we may not have a spare trailer. We have plenty of flunkies, of course. None of which will necessarily be with us when you arrive, alas.

Also, there is mandatory daily drug testing.

Looking forward to hearing from you.

[Pucker]

I like Bardem, but last I checked Roland was supposed to be modeled after Clinet Eastwood as Blondie in the spaghettis, and there is no actor around today that looks like Clint Eastwood more than Jackman.

But again, I just read the story and that is as far as my influendce goes.

And for those worried about blue eyes, I think it's worth pointing out that Blondie was not blond.

[motocop]

I wanna play Cuthbert. Listen, man...I look young for my age, and with copmuters (copmuters? What a concept!) ah hem, with COMPUTERS, anything is possible. Acting expirience? Well, I played a gingerbread kid in our high school production of Hansel And Gretel (of which I directed) so there's that. Hey, I'd do it for scale, and maybe a daily per diem to cover booze and cigarettes. I want my own trailer and a flunky bringing me cheezedoodles once every hour. And me and Ron Howard go WAYYY back. Shoot, I've been watching Andy Griffith since before I could talk! He owes me, man. And I can shoot. Slingshots SPOILER are my specialty. Think about it, folks.

Or I'll play Coral Thorin. I'm dynamite in a wig.

You made your case for me.

[fushingfeef]

For Calvin Tower, I was thinking Phillip Seymour Hoffman, but that role probably just isn't big enough for him.
http://www.popentertainment.com/hoffman02.jpg

[fushingfeef]

So maybe Jason Alexander could be Calvin Tower...
http://jasonalexander.net/images/Jason%20Alexander/Jason_Alexander.jpg

[~Ally~]

I wanna play Cuthbert.

You can play Cuthbert if I can be Rhea. What a fabulously disgusting character she is...I'd love to read more of her wicked deeds. :devil: :eek2:

Seriously though, as much as I love Kathy Bates in SK productions, I can't imagine her as Rhea. Glenn Close would be my first choice, followed by Meryl Streep.

[fushingfeef]

Ooh, I thought of a good one:
Sam Elliot as Eldred Jonas
http://www.zombiepark.com/images/gramps/sam2.jpg

[motocop]

Oh yeah, I cant definately see that.:y:

[Daphne Deschain]

Bardems eyes are dark dark brown so covering them with lighter blue contacts will be a challenge but surely they can't skip over the fact that Roland has blue eyes can they?? It's one of his features that gets mentioned over and over!! I can however picture Bardem as Roland :grinning:

[Daphne Deschain]

oh my word yes!!!! Sam Elliot is PERFECT!!!!!!!

[DoctorSwerve]

I'm actually a fan of Bardem playing the part of Roland. But I've come up with a new name tonight that kind of intrigued me. How about James Caviezel? He has had some solid roles but really isn't a household name. Thoughts?

http://www.georgecaroll.com/male%20stars/Jim%20Caviezel/Jim-Caviezel.jpg
http://images.tvrage.com/people/20/59122.jpg
http://staff.washington.edu/meganw/boy/caviezel5.jpg

[arsepoetica]

I thought Javier Bardem would make a better Walter/Man in Black...but it's still a good choice. I hope they don't rely too much on mainstream actors and go with people who are right for the parts, as opposed to famous people. But...it's Hollywood, and priority #1 is to sell tickets, so...

[Daphne Deschain]

James Caviezel...I like it!!! =)

[CCAL]

Whoever they choose, I'm sure most viewers will try to be open-minded and just go with the storyline--I know I will, altho I always look at characters in the background to see if SK is pulling a 'Hitchcock Moment' on us....wouldnt that be cool?? I'm imagining Roland stepping thru door and glancing over at a pharmacist (and its SK in white coat) talking to someone on phone...(remember that scene???) yup pretty cool!

[CoolhandLocke]

I had thought about Jim while back and he would fit the build pretty well imo. Hate to beat a dead horse by saying this once a week but let us know something already Javier...damn lol.

[Elemeno P]

What about SK in the movie? Are they going to do the Tron CGI thing with him?

[vannestjc]

Having watched the Oscars last night, I saw 2 people perfect for The Dark Tower. Oddly enough, one of them was Javier Bardem's presenting partner.

Josh Brolin would be a fantastic Roland. This thread is 14 pages long, so if he's already been suggested, I apologize for the repeat, but I think he'd be great. And after the Oscars and watching Prince of Persia yesterday, I think Jake Gyllenhaal would be perfect for Eddie.

Lock up Taraji P Henson as Susannah and you can cast whoever you want the rest of the way. Since you can't get young Clint Eastwood and young Angela Bassett...I think the trio of Brolin/Gyllenhaal/Henson would be amazing.

Thoughts?

Jim

[Baz]

Simon Cowell or Peirs Morgan could play Dandelo theyve had enuff practice.

[Cannedice]

Javier Bardem has brown eyes. He's a good actor. Is eye color really important? In "The Age of Innocence" they completely flipped Ellen and May. In the book, Ellen was a brunette and May was a tall, robust blonde. Funny, Winona Ryder's natural hair color is blondish, maybe strawberry blonde.

[girl@thewindow]

yes, EYE COLOR IS IMPORTANT!!! I have been dreaming of those eyes since i was in jr high!!! They must be blue!!

[crimsonkingtph]

Yays....a wee bit more news..getting closer....

http://moviesblog.mtv.com/2011/03/01/javier-bardem-the-dark-tower/


This movie is truly driving me insane. I watched the Oscars just to see Javier Bardem since I have yet to see a movie with him in it. I even yelled at him to say something....good thing my wife knows I'm a little nutty.

[~Ally~]

I'm actually rooting that Bardem doesn't take the role--say sorry--as I just can't imagine him as Roland. I find him a fine actor but I will take a lot of convincing that he can successfully pull off this role. I always wanted Viggo, but have to admit that since viewing another spectacular performance by Christian Bale in "The Fighter" I believe he would be awesome casting as Roland. Either way, Bardem is taking far too long to say yay or nay, so I've pretty much lost interest in him now.

[Terry B]

Does anyone else feel that perhaps Brian Glazer should play Sheemie? I mean - he looks like a Sheemie!

[Brian]

Just a heads up... Cinematicle is saying that Viggo is looking to play General Zod in Zach Snyder's Superman reboot. Not sure if that takes him out of the 2nd place running for the DT films if Bardem says no.

[Bev Vincent]

According to Brian Grazer, who was queried by MTV at the Oscars: "[Bardem] is locked in psychologically. He really wants to do it, so we're absolutely rooting for him to do it."

I don't think I've ever heard that expression before. "locked in psychologically"

[JohnDalglish]

I don't think I've ever heard that expression before. "locked in psychologically"

Hi,

Me neither, Bev.

I wonder WTF it means?

And if HE knows what it means?

Long days and pleasant nights

[Moderator]

Maybe Hollywood types aren't allowed to say "in principle." :wink2:

[Elemeno P]

Hi,

Me neither, Bev.

I wonder WTF it means?

And if HE knows what it means?

Long days and pleasant nights


I'll set my watch and warrant on that their lawyers know what it means. I see big...BIG numbers being thrown around.

[Brian]

I think it means that he's cultivating the emotional ground work to play the role. That said, I'll bet he's apprehensive to commit to such a massive project without knowing exactly what he's getting into. How long does it take to listen to or read all the DT books? I think that's when we'll get our answer.

[Bev Vincent]

I figure he's trying to decide if he can be a villain in the next James Bond film and do this one, too.

[Spideyman]

I think it means that he's cultivating the emotional ground work to play the role. That said, I'll bet he's apprehensive to commit to such a massive project without knowing exactly what he's getting into. How long does it take to listen to or read all the DT books? I think that's when we'll get our answer.

Brian, I just finished listening to the audiobooks- took me approx 3 weeks with life getting in the way. Loved every second.

Gunslinger 4 hrs running time ( 6 cassettes)
Drawing 12 hours ( 8 cassettes)
Wastelands 18 hrs (12 cassettes)
Wizards 27 hours (18 cassettes)
Song of S 14 hrs (12CD)
Wolves 26 hours (22 CD)
DT 29 hours (24CD)

[skimom]

Kind of a weird choice. He can act for sure, but the physicality is all wrong. I can't see it, but who knows?

[~Ally~]

Brian, I just finished listening to the audiobooks- took me approx 3 weeks with life getting in the way. Loved every second.

Gunslinger 4 hrs running time ( 6 cassettes)
Drawing 12 hours ( 8 cassettes)
Wastelands 18 hrs (12 cassettes)
Wizards 27 hours (18 cassettes)
Song of S 14 hrs (12CD)
Wolves 26 hours (22 CD)
DT 29 hours (24CD)

Judging by that time scale he could easily have completed the stories by now--if that's what that Hollywood waffle speak was alluding to--so an answer from him soon would be nice. Once we know who the lead is things can start moving forward in other areas of casting and production...get a move on Javier!!

[JohnDalglish]

How long does it take to listen to or read all the DT books?.

Hi,

Thirty years the first time and twenty days the second.

And twenty (full-time) days the last time as well.

So I guess a Follywood type would be able to read it in .... oooh..... say about ten years!

Long days and pleasant nights

[Elemeno P]

Judging by that time scale he could easily have completed the stories by now--if that's what that Hollywood waffle speak was alluding to--so an answer from him soon would be nice. Once we know who the lead is things can start moving forward in other areas of casting and production...get a move on Javier!!

Tell him there's a 2x button thingy on the ipod. :grinning:

[Baz]

Maybe if he doesnt read them all at once he would develop better. 1 book for per film so he doesnt know whats coming like the viewer wont.

[howibrokemyhead]

Javier Bardem was great in No Country... but he is definitely not Roland. The guy can hardly speak English. I don't see this working very well. >.<

[~Ally~]

Javier Bardem was great in No Country... but he is definitely not Roland. The guy can hardly speak English. I don't see this working very well. >.<

I guess that's where it's fortunate Roland isn't English/American and can have an accent...none of us really know how Roland sounds, except maybe Sai King.

[JohnDalglish]

I guess that's where it's fortunate Roland isn't English/American and can have an accent...none of us really know how Roland sounds, except maybe Sai King.

Hi,

Although I've not heard them myself (yet!), I'm told that the audio books are fantastic by EVERYONE who's listened to them.

Long days and pleasant nights

[Elemeno P]

I guess that's where it's fortunate Roland isn't English/American and can have an accent...none of us really know how Roland sounds, except maybe Sai King.


And...those of us who absorbed the books through Audio, the Muller/Guidall combo is hard to erase....never have I been so thankful for a 40 mile commute (cept for the gas part :sad:).

[Terry B]

Awwwwwwwwww - put in some ice-blue contacts and he'll be perfect.

[CCAL]

speaking of reading all these books, I realize many actors would probably skip and grab an audio but as for us Constant Readers...are WE reading or just listening? I heard an exerpt of SK reading from UTD this week because I wanted to know what he sounded like and got swept away with his story! but how many of you actually read the books? I'll bet many. Dont feel guilty, I am not trying to give anyone a guilt trip here. I can think of many times it would be an advantage. I dont work anymore so I have plenty of time to read. most dont. when I worked I put books and movies on hold because my workday was 12-16 hr days/7 days a week for duration of my deployment-once for 8 months solid--(I felt like a zombie when I returned home).
I'm just curious is all.

[xkittyx]

I read now, and always have. I've never really listened to an audiobook before, I tried a few years ago with an audio of some Poe stories, and found myself thinking of other things, looking out the window, and not paying any attention at all to what was being said. A sentence would catch my attention, then I'd be all "huh? what's going on? I missed it." To be totally honest, I have o have the captions on my tv because I find it really hard to pay attention to what peope are saying if I can't read it. Now maybe if I tried to read along with my copy of an SK book while listening to the audio, that might work :eyebrow:

[~Ally~]

speaking of reading all these books, I realize many actors would probably skip and grab an audio but as for us Constant Readers...are WE reading or just listening? I heard an exerpt of SK reading from UTD this week because I wanted to know what he sounded like and got swept away with his story! but how many of you actually read the books? I'll bet many. Dont feel guilty, I am not trying to give anyone a guilt trip here. I can think of many times it would be an advantage. I dont work anymore so I have plenty of time to read. most dont. when I worked I put books and movies on hold because my workday was 12-16 hr days/7 days a week for duration of my deployment-once for 8 months solid--(I felt like a zombie when I returned home).
I'm just curious is all.

I've never listened to an audio book although I'd like to try one. I've always enjoyed reading, no matter how tired, I'd rather read a book than watch TV. It helps relax me.

JD, I've also only heard great things about the DT audio's but they are still simply a persons interpretation of how Roland sounds. I don't think Bardem having an accent and not being "fluent" in English would be a problem, after all, didn't Roland speak of "astin" and "tooter fish?"

[howibrokemyhead]

True. But generally speaking, if Roland had an accent, I'm pretty sure King would have mentioned it in the books. I can even see him having a faint accent, but... Javiers is really thick.

This is just my opinion, but for me, the choice is all wrong. I just want the movies to be perfect, to BE the books you know.

[stix]

I've never listened to an audio book although I'd like to try one. I've always enjoyed reading, no matter how tired, I'd rather read a book than watch TV. It helps relax me.

JD, I've also only heard great things about the DT audio's but they are still simply a persons interpretation of how Roland sounds. I don't think Bardem having an accent and not being "fluent" in English would be a problem, after all, didn't Roland speak of "astin" and "tooter fish?"

If you do decide to start listening to DT audio, try the awesome Frank Muller versions ("When Frank speaks, the lame will walk, the blind will see, and the deaf will hear." Stephen King); although the George Guidall versions are still excellent.

[kingricefan]

speaking of reading all these books, I realize many actors would probably skip and grab an audio but as for us Constant Readers...are WE reading or just listening? I heard an exerpt of SK reading from UTD this week because I wanted to know what he sounded like and got swept away with his story! but how many of you actually read the books? I'll bet many. Dont feel guilty, I am not trying to give anyone a guilt trip here. I can think of many times it would be an advantage. I dont work anymore so I have plenty of time to read. most dont. when I worked I put books and movies on hold because my workday was 12-16 hr days/7 days a week for duration of my deployment-once for 8 months solid--(I felt like a zombie when I returned home).
I'm just curious is all.

I have lots of audio versions of SK books, but my favs are of SK himself reading his own works- Bag Of Bones, the first three DT books that he read way back when they were first published, his live audio of The Revenge of Lard Ass Logan). I love the sound of his voice. I do find myself at times not being able to pay attention to the audios, find my mind wandering, so I prefer to read the book instead. I usually always read the book first and then buy the audios later at used bookstores.

[muskrat]

I read all the books first, but now and then I'll slip in an audio just for fun. To me it's almost like listening to old time radio (under 30 crowd sez "HUH?") .

Frank Muller is the king of KING. DT II is a hoot!

[~Ally~]

True. But generally speaking, if Roland had an accent, I'm pretty sure King would have mentioned it in the books. I can even see him having a faint accent, but... Javiers is really thick.

This is just my opinion, but for me, the choice is all wrong. I just want the movies to be perfect, to BE the books you know.

I don't think Bardem's accent is "really thick." Maybe when speaking out of character but every movie I've watched him in I understood him with no difficulties.

I also don't recall King ever mentioning Roland had an accent, or anyone's accent during the books so maybe it was something he felt no need to address. Although at times he did write about Roland speaking in the "High Speech" that the other members of the Ka~Tet were astounded by so I wonder how that sounds. Either way, no matter which country a person comes from there is always an accent, affected by the dialect of the particular area/region they reside in.

[howibrokemyhead]

I don't think Bardem's accent is "really thick." Maybe when speaking out of character but every movie I've watched him in I understood him with no difficulties.

I also don't recall King ever mentioning Roland had an accent, or anyone's accent during the books so maybe it was something he felt no need to address. Although at times he did write about Roland speaking in the "High Speech" that the other members of the Ka~Tet were astounded by so I wonder how that sounds. Either way, no matter which country a person comes from there is always an accent, affected by the dialect of the particular area/region they reside in.

? Watch an interview with him... it is pretty thick. I'm not saying that I can't understand him, I'm simply stating that I-personally-do not see Roland as being Spanish. Not to mention... Roland is supposed to look like a Clint Eastwood, only different.

Also, King does mention a few accents- such as Maine accents, which are similar to the Calla. And I'm sure he must say something about how the people in Mejis talk- I think it might even be Spanish.

I do wonder what the High Speech is going to sound like too! And I am really curious about how the whole thing will turn out.

[TracyC]

Who is Javier Barden? What's he been in?

[howibrokemyhead]

Who is Javier Barden? What's he been in?

He was in No Country For Old Men, Eat Pray Love... Uhm... Love in the Time of Cholera... and that's all I know of !

[Elemeno P]

OK....guess I'm officially on the No JB group...

Ummm (http://tv.yahoo.com/blog/why-the-javier-bardemjosh-brolin-kiss-wasnt-included-in-the-oscars-telecast--2475?nc)

[blunthead]

Maybe Hollywood types aren't allowed to say "in principle." :wink2:

There are certain words they have an automatic aversion to.

[girl@thewindow]

in all of the books, roland has trouble pronouncing words from our world, such as "astin" and keflex, so he may have an accent, and bardem is capable of covering his accent as seen in no country for old men

[brownrecluse]

Who is Javier Barden? What's he been in?

Javier Bardem is an Oscar-winning actor (http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000849/), better than we ever could have hoped for to play Roland.

In my eyes, that's two cast members who actually can act, (Naomie Harris is the other) which bodes better in my eyes, than any actor who looks or sounds more like the part but brings less talent or Oscar prestige to the table.

Roland is supposed to lend gravity to every scene, regardless of his age and deteriorating condition. He's supposed to have a heavy presence. Watch No Country for Old Men, and you'll see that you cannot deny that Mr. Bardem has that weighty presence in spades.

[JohnDalglish]

There are certain words they have an automatic aversion to.

Hi,

Ah, I see, Blunthead.

Like 'humility', for example?

Long days and pleasant nights

[blunthead]

Hi,

Ah, I see, Blunthead.

Like 'humility', for example?

Long days and pleasant nights

Yes, I am pretty sure they have not even heard that one yet.

[~Ally~]

OK....guess I'm officially on the No JB group...

Ummm (http://tv.yahoo.com/blog/why-the-javier-bardemjosh-brolin-kiss-wasnt-included-in-the-oscars-telecast--2475?nc)

I don't understand this post...do you mean you don't want Bardem because he and Brolin "kissed" while greeting each other?

In many European countries this is a common way to greet. I could see my Greek friends five times a day and every single time we would kiss and hug. It's nice to display affection for those you care about and are friendly with. Since Brolin and Bardem worked together on "No Country" I took this encounter to mean they are very fond of each other.

[xkittyx]

I just saw the rumor for Naomie Harris to be Susannah and I say I can go with that, that'd be cool, I liked her in Pirates :y:

[muskrat]

I'm sold on Javier, with Caviezel (sic?) a close second. Or howabout this line up?:

Roland-Steven Segal
Eddie-Charlie Sheen
Suze-Whoopi Goldberg
Jake-Jodie Foster (what?)
Man In Black-Simon Cowell
Rhea-Joan Rivers (this really aint that bad an idea)
Jonas-William Shatner
Callahan-Phil Spector
Ted Brautigan-Wayne Newton
Susan-Molly Ringwald (hey, she did SUCH a great job as Fran in Stand)

and so on. We could get Joel Shumacker to direct, providing he makes Roland's nipples visible at all times like he did with Batman. And a score by Huey Lewis and the News. Forget theatrical release--let's go straight to video (vhs) and maybe a two-part, 3hr mini series on Lifetime.

I gotta lay off the PCP...

[TroyBlackford]

19 pages on this thread... a portent!

[TroyBlackford]

OK....guess I'm officially on the No JB group...

Ummm (http://tv.yahoo.com/blog/why-the-javier-bardemjosh-brolin-kiss-wasnt-included-in-the-oscars-telecast--2475?nc)

That's sad that you seem to be prejudiced or upset by European customs. The man's wife is Penelope Cruz, so it's not as though he doesn't like girls - and even if he did, how would that make him unfit to play Roland? It's 2011 you know.

[CoolhandLocke]

Whoopeeeee! I'm so glad to finally get something new out of someone about the DT movie. The blurb from Grazer on Mtv's site was great news to me. I took it for what it was worth, but really like the "Locked In" part and Grazer saying Javier really wants to do the film. The only part I didn't like or understand much to be honest was him saying there pretty much not going to cast anyone else until they settle on Roland/Javier figures it out.

To me it seems like if they got a great actor for Eddie or Suz that would maybe make the desicion a little easier for Javier. If he knew he was working with some great actors like Naomi Harris or Gordon-Levitt I think that would push him a little closer. Maybe they are wanting to use Javier as bait to get other actors involved though, its really hard to guess, I'm glad to hear something finally. I usually hate Mtv, but this time i thank them for having the stones to actually say something to Grazer...as much hub-bub as their is for this flick I like how no news mags are asking Ron or Javier about it, but they will as about Bond.

[Elemeno P]

No....it's not all the PC reasons....

I guess my vision of Roland is just so grand and now I have a mental picture of him kissing Josh Brolin.

Anyways, my first knee jerk reason for no JB was the eyes really.

[cain625]

This may a question for waaaaay down the road, but would Bardem use his natural voice, or adopt an accent for the part?

[pixiedark]

I think that Javier Barderm would be an awesome choice to play Roland. I saw him in the movie "No Country for Old Men" and his character Anton Chigurh was a very scary, very cold-blooded killer. I always pictured Roland as being tough as nails and cold-blooded. When I saw "No Country for Old Men," I knew right then that Javier Bardem could pull of playing Roland.

As for Javier having brown eyes, in "No Country for Old Men" the character Anton Chigurh was described as having "eyes blue as lapis, like wet stones" So I think that Javier Bardem can pull off playing a blue eyed Roland.

[Daphne Deschain]

This may a question for waaaaay down the road, but would Bardem use his natural voice, or adopt an accent for the part?

Surely have to adopt an accent for the role...Bardem speaks English with a strong Spanish accent and 'long, tall and ugly' is American?!?!

[blunthead]

I wonder, for the DT movie, what a lineup of only actors who have already been in a sK movie would look like?

[JohnDalglish]

I wonder, for the DT movie, what a lineup of only actors who have already been in a sK movie would look like?

Hi,

Like Molly Ringwald? LOL

Seriously though, that could be amazing - Christyopher Walken, Jack Nicholson, Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman, Kathy Bates, Gary Sinise, Tom Hanks, Johnny Depp etc.

And Arnie.

Long days and pleasant nights

[Mother]

Surely have to adopt an accent for the role...Bardem speaks English with a strong Spanish accent and 'long, tall and ugly' is American?!?!

'long, tall and ugly' wasn't really 'American', and he DID have an accent of sorts, especially when using High Speech. When you get right down to it, he is, for the most part, the last of his kind (from Gilead), so Bardem having an accent different from everyone else wouldn't be so far fetched.

[Elemeno P]

Hi,

Like Molly Ringwald? LOL

Seriously though, that could be amazing - Christyopher Walken, Jack Nicholson, Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman, Kathy Bates, Gary Sinise, Tom Hanks, Johnny Depp etc.

And Arnie.

Long days and pleasant nights



whoa....can you imagine the payroll....Oy's gonna end up being a sock puppet...

[Daphne Deschain]

'long, tall and ugly' wasn't really 'American', and he DID have an accent of sorts, especially when using High Speech. When you get right down to it, he is, for the most part, the last of his kind (from Gilead), so Bardem having an accent different from everyone else wouldn't be so far fetched.


Very true...in my head Roland doesn't have an American accent but I've always associated gunslingers from America (but then this is a fictional novel, lol).
I'm still not sold on his natural Spanish....who knows, maybe it will work :eyebrow:

[Baz]

Howdy. I found a 50min interview of Ron Howard on Howard Stern Show. if you havent heard it i found it on youtube shouldnt be to hard to find. DT is mentioned as well as the series idea, somethin about a 6hour special. check it out if ya havent already, pritty funny interview.

[samidragon]

That would totally SUCK! I am a fan of The Dark Tower series and casting that guy as Roland would kill it for sure. We need to take a stand! Everyone who agrees that Javier, soft looking and wishy washy, would kill the character of Roland Deschain . . a hardcore, leathery gunslinger, we need to join together and fight this! I am tired of awesome characters getting pawned off on the wrong people. Save Roland Deschain!

[marywhip]

Still think Viggo Mortenson would have been a better choice.

[~Ally~]

That would totally SUCK! I am a fan of The Dark Tower series and casting that guy as Roland would kill it for sure. We need to take a stand! Everyone who agrees that Javier, soft looking and wishy washy, would kill the character of Roland Deschain . . a hardcore, leathery gunslinger, we need to join together and fight this! I am tired of awesome characters getting pawned off on the wrong people. Save Roland Deschain!

Have you seen Bardem in "No Country for Old Men?"

"Soft looking and wishy washy" is certainly not a description of the character he portrays there. Dude is dangerous in that role.:eek2:

[Roland of Germany]

well...

I wasn't really happy about Bardem as one possibility to play Roland first, cause he got too much of a bad guy for me (what's with Mortensen and LOTR is Bardem and No country for old men IMHO, but I think you can't find an established actor and not referring him to one previous role he had.) but the more I think about Bardem as Roland, the more I think "Let's see how it works."

[pixiedark]

well...

I wasn't really happy about Bardem as one possibility to play Roland first, cause he got too much of a bad guy for me (what's with Mortensen and LOTR is Bardem and No country for old men IMHO, but I think you can't find an established actor and not referring him to one previous role he had.) but the more I think about Bardem as Roland, the more I think "Let's see how it works."

I think that Viggo Mortensen does not have enough "bad guy" in him to pull off Roland. Remember, Roland is not a feel good happy go lucky hero. There is a lot of "bad guy" in Roland. He is partly a cold blooded killer. (Just look at The Battle of Tull)
I don't think Viggo Mortsen (or any other actor) can pull of the "cold blooded killer" aspect of Roland the Gunslinger's character.
after seeing Javier Bardem play Anton Chignuh in "No Country For Old Men" I realized that he can pull off being a cold blooded killer and be believable. (IMO I think that Viggo Mortensen playing a cold blooded killer gunslinger would be a joke!)

[TheBanker]

Well, as far as I can remember, I've never actually joined a forum for....well, for anything (lol). However, I've enjoyed the DT books for years, and when I recently heard that Javier Bardem was offered the role of Roland, all of my anticipation for the project just dropped. So, I decided to go ahead and throw my opinion out there with hopes that Stephen and the powers that be are reading these boards and might take the fans' opinions into account (naive, I guess). Anyway, my message?

PLEASE RECONSIDER AND CAST SOMEONE WHO PHYSICALLY FITS THE ROLE and IS A GREAT ACTOR!

Of course, I always pictured someone like Clint Eastwood in the role, and I know that it's not reasonable to attempt to cast him at his age. And I know that in the scheme of things, it's very lame that I'm this involved (sorry, Japan). However, I've spent hours and hours reading and re-reading these books, checking out Dark Tower resources, and even reading the graphic novels, and I'm just so disappointed in this decision. This story is just a really great one to me, and I personally identify with it. What about Daniel Day Lewis or Jim Caviezel, for your father's sake?

On a somewhat related note, I heard that Susannah may not even be black...umm, really? What, exactly, is going on with the casting of this project?!?! It seems that someone has forgotten the face of his father (lol). Anyway, I'm sure it's already a done deal, but I do wish they'd reconsider and check out all of the fan sites out there to see that most people think these decisions stink...

[marywhip]

Sam Elliott would be perfect for the role of Roland!! And that voice-- very distinctive!!!

[Anni M]

I saw him...young Roland, maybe, but the search continues.
don't laugh, but I was thinking Scott Glenn is now grizzled enough to portray Long Tall n Ugly. He gives a bitchin piercing glare (needs blue contacts, tho), he's attractive, but no matinee idol..PLUS he can act..
Thoughts?

[Robinjoy]

I'm sure whomever is picked to play Roland will be great but I must admit that Hugh Jackman would be an awesome Roland.

[Liselle]

Rumours are abound at the moment. My friend has just emailed me to tell me that she has heard Nicholas Cage will be playing Walter (or Man in Black if you prefer) and Deborah someone from Dexter will be playing Susannah, do hope she's means Susan otherwise bit of a colour issue going on there.

On both counts I do hope she is wrong and hopefully she is just getting me back for boring her senseless about how great the next three years are going to be.

[lenona]

Has anyone considered Luke Perry for a gunslinger? I liked him in "Goodnight for Justice" and "A Gunfighter's Pledge." I think he could play any part under the direction of R. Howard.

[chucknorris101]

While it might just end up being weird, they could pull a TRON and use a CGI caricature of Eastwood when he was younger...he's really the only person i visualize as Roland, especially since King went out of his way to say that was his inspiration as well....Does Eastwood have a kid? :biggrin2:

[Becks19]

While it might just end up being weird, they could pull a TRON and use a CGI caricature of Eastwood when he was younger...he's really the only person i visualize as Roland, especially since King went out of his way to say that was his inspiration as well....Does Eastwood have a kid? :biggrin2:

He does, but it's a daughter that I recall....

[Moderator]

He has a son named Scott Eastwood (http://www.stephenking.com/forums/redirector.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.daylife.com%2F photo%2F02rueD02Bk39w) who is an actor. His son, Kyle, is a musician.

[cat in a bag]

Wow, he is handsome, isn't he?

He also has a son named Kyle, he is a musician. http://www.kyleeastwood.com/
He looks a lot like his Daddy, I think.

[Becks19]

He does, but it's a daughter that I recall....

Wow thank you Ms.Mod! His son does look incredibly like him. If he's as fine an actor as his father, he'd make a great Roland IMO.

[Terry B]

Wow thank you Ms.Mod! His son does look incredibly like him. If he's as fine an actor as his father, he'd make a great Roland IMO.

Actually - he's closer in age to Eddie - that's where I'd put him.

[pixiedark]

Sam Elliott would be perfect for the role of Roland!! And that voice-- very distinctive!!!

I think Sam Elliot is a little bit too old to play Roland. He definitely could play the part of Rolands father, Stephen Deschain. I think that Sam Elliot looks and sounds like Roland's father. Sam Elliot could possibly also play Cort.

[Lily Sawyer]

Well, I'll have to admit I had a strong negative reaction to Javier Bardem playing Roland. I think he's a fine actor, as well as a good guy, and deserves some kind of part in the film(s).
However, this is a fantasy story, and as such, occurs in a fantasy land...that is to say, a land where the language presumably is a fantasy language as well. Far be it from me to wax profane about the language spoken in the DT series, but one thing is sure: while Bardem speaks excellent English (fie to the poster who wrote otherwise), his accent readily and strongly identifies him as a Spaniard. Ixnay on Ardembay.

I'm all for thinking outside the box and casting against type; however, the role of Roland is one where I believe casting a stereotype will pay off, one that is part Indiana Jones, part Paul Newman and part Clint Eastwood; part Lone Ranger and part Chaucerian fabled character. What do all those individuals have in common? -They're all white men. It's important that this man be a straightforward, unapologetic cowboy type.

I understand Bardem has now inked with Imagine, so it's a done deal unless there are major creative differences.
I'd much rather the role have gone to Viggo Mortensen, Hugh Jackman, or Timothy Olyphant; Russell Crowe, Jake Gyllenhall, Simon Baker and Brad Pitt also occurred to me.

It's too bad Heath Ledger isn't with us. He would have been a perfect Roland.

I'm just grateful we don't have to put up with Tom Cruise as Roland, Seth Rogan as Eddie, and Megan Fox as Susannah.

[jagermaster22]

They better get moving.

[jacobtlong]

I know the role of the Crimson King is such a small role, but I think it is certainly very important. Just as important as Roland or the Man In Black. The Crimson King is the whole reason for the story and he needs to be played by someone who can be crazy and be memorable and do so dressed in make-up. I'm thinking Tim Curry. Wouldn't he make a great CK? He certainly made for a great Pennywise.

[DoctorSwerve]

I know the role of the Crimson King is such a small role, but I think it is certainly very important. Just as important as Roland or the Man In Black. The Crimson King is the whole reason for the story and he needs to be played by someone who can be crazy and be memorable and do so dressed in make-up. I'm thinking Tim Curry. Wouldn't he make a great CK? He certainly made for a great Pennywise.I would love to see Gary Oldman in this role.

[Yin]

FALSE!!! I give you Scott Eastwood, son of Clint Eastwood. He's an actor as well and plenty young, but with makeup it's not hard to make him a bit more grizzled and weathered.

http://www3.pictures.gi.zimbio.com/Scott+Eastwood+One+Only+Cape+Town+Grand+Opening+CV c9KA9zuiml.jpg

http://www1.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Scott+Eastwood+Premiere+Warner+Bros+Pictures+NNL_3 yV8B3cl.jpg

http://www1.pictures.zimbio.com/bg/Scott+Eastwood+Invictus+Premiere+vFGe4inOKDhl.jpg

[noliebean]

Anyone who has a problem with the casting choice really needs to re-watch (or watch) "no country for old men". Determination in the goal no matter what cost or sacrifice made and he is mostly silent throughout the move. He gives a very real weight to Roland. He also has an accent which is beneficial not a draw back because Roland is -not- from our world. His written language, his speech and everything about him is other worldly determination. Rarely have I ever seen an actor do this better then Barden. This is what they were looking for. Not what we saw in our minds when we read the books but someone who can convey an entire character through mannerism. They can give him make up and contacts and even change his face shape if they need to to get the look but they would loose out greatly if they choose someone based solely on Mr Kings physical description.

[CCAL]

Dont think the role of Eddie Dean has been addressed yet, but everytime I read DT, I always visualize Gary Sinise in Eddies role-particulary after he kicks that monkey off his back...course he is too old for Eddie.

[noliebean]

i always envision Elijah Wood. He's famous for being all sweet in "Lord of the Rings" but what about "sin city" and "the good son"? freaking homicidal!

[CCAL]

ha- good point! I just couldnt understand why I always hear Gary Sinise every time I read DTs-guess theres no real logic, I just connected with him on the Stand and my mind shifted and put him in as Eddie. Hello Eddie! lol

[JohnDalglish]

ha- good point! I just couldnt understand why I always hear Gary Sinise every time I read DTs-guess theres no real logic, I just connected with him on the Stand and my mind shifted and put him in as Eddie. Hello Eddie! lol

Hii,

I know exactly what you mean, I'm re-reading Under the Dome at the moment and I really see Barbie as Gary Sinise (a few years ago).

I guess he's just about the archetype of a King hero, eh?

Long days and pleasant nights

[noliebean]

You know, with all the DT duality that goes on, I think of Sinise more as Roland then Eddie. He seems far too serious for my taste of Eddie. That's why I think of Elijah because he's got such the sweetest easy-going face that someone could easily love but then he could totally flip out! I also think Thandie Newton should play Susannah/Odetta/Detta. If you don't know who she is watch the movie "Beloved". She's simply amazing.

[guido tkp]

soooo...i just rewatched joss whedons 'firefly'...

and i'm thinkin'.....well, let's just say any good fan of the katet ought to seek out the entire series, and the movie, 'serenity'

almost all of your casting decisions could be made by just renaming the characters...wouldn't even have to change their garb much

notice fillion with that gun...yeah, baby

once the movie hits...and you're disappointed...just go watch 'firefly' and see how it shoulda been done....how close it already was

[Srbo]

Ray Romano and Justin Bieber?

REALLY?!:eek2:

I think I just died...what a DISAPPOINTMENT! WORST choice, or one of them Howard could have made.
Ray is a totally lifeless, humorless has been ( who is TO OLD to play Eddie ) and Justin...excuse me - HOW MANY MOVIES did he make so far, how much experience does he have?
WHAT A JOKE!

[Srbo]

PS:

I really hope form my heart that that is your April 1st joke.

[Moderator]

:down:

[seansphoto]

Don't forget OPRAH!! I pray PRAY this is an April fool's joke! Otherwise I may have to boycott!!!! Now Gary Oldman I think for either the crimson king OR Randall flag would be great!



Ray Romano and Justin Bieber?

REALLY?!:eek2:

I think I just died...what a DISAPPOINTMENT! WORST choice, or one of them Howard could have made.
Ray is a totally lifeless, humorless has been ( who is TO OLD to play Eddie ) and Justin...excuse me - HOW MANY MOVIES did he make so far, how much experience does he have?
WHAT A JOKE!

[muskrat]

The Gary Oldman part actually would be cool.

I'm still holding out for David Hasselhoff/Roland...

[Moderator]

We should have an update this afternoon. Hoping for the best. :down:

[Elemeno P]

The CK pick is the one that makes me nervous this isn't an April Fools funny.

[JohnDalglish]

Hi,

Quelle domage !!!

Long days and pleasant nights

[seansphoto]

The CK pick is the one that makes me nervous this isn't an April Fools funny.


Maybe to add a bit of realism to throw us off the joke lol

[Moderator]

Have you seen the other News (http://www.stephenking.com/forums/forumdisplay.php/6-News) posted today?

[Spideyman]

Have you seen the other News (http://www.stephenking.com/forums/forumdisplay.php/6-News) posted today?

Oh wow- Mother's Day is coming up! Maybe I'll get that iphone. :wink2: This could be better than Farmville.

[Elemeno P]

*****RESERVE SPACE FOR MS. MOD******

>Insert Rick Roll .gif


*****RESERVE SPACE FOR MS. MOD******

[Becks19]

Yeah and it's nutsFishing anyone? My 11 year old has opined that Squeaky voiced Bieber does not belong in any Stephen King Movie!! I think everyone can agree with that statement.

[TroyBlackford]

Oh, everybody who is upset... You! You're why these things are still done. :) Bless you.

[Moderator]

*****RESERVE SPACE FOR MS. MOD******

>Insert Rick Roll .gif


*****RESERVE SPACE FOR MS. MOD******


I promise, John, we wouldn't do that to you again and wouldn't have before if we'd known it would cause such a problem for those who didn't know about rick rolling. :smile2:

[blunthead]

I ain't falling for it.

[jagermaster22]

i forgot what day it was!

[Elemeno P]

i forgot what day it was!

As Sai King would put it....It is a great day and a sad day.

Here's to hoping it ends on a great note.

[fushingfeef]

What's next? Maybe a focus group of teeny boppers will determine that the phrase "Dark Tower" is too much of a "bummer", and they'll change the title to "The Awesome Way-Cool Tower".:wow:

[SharonC]

Imagine my excitement at reading this news! Now imagine my disappointment when I read the list! Then forgive my senior moment as I suddenly realized what day this is.

[Elemeno P]

What's next? Maybe a focus group of teeny boppers will determine that the phrase "Dark Tower" is too much of a "bummer", and they'll change the title to "The Awesome Way-Cool Tower".:wow:

The Twilight Tower?

:eek2:

[xkittyx]

What's next? Maybe a focus group of teeny boppers will determine that the phrase "Dark Tower" is too much of a "bummer", and they'll change the title to "The Awesome Way-Cool Tower".:wow:

I dunno, y'know how kids are all "emo" nowadays... they might like the Dark part of it, and they'll get Fall Out Boy (or whichever group of boys in makeup is popular right now) to do the soundtrack.... :vomit::barf::belch:

[kingricefan]

:rofl::rofl::rofl::rofl::rofl:Good one, Ms Mod!!!! My heart stopped until I remembered what today is. Naughty, naughty girl.