Feature films based on video games don’t have the best reputation. However, like howcomic book filmshave turned things around in terms of quality, video game-based films seem to making the first steps toward a more positive reception.Sonic the Hedgehogwas a solid hit with families in early 2020, and Sony’s upcomingUnchartedfilm, based on thePlayStationfranchise, also looks promising.
Sony has such confidence in adapting its own PlayStation brands into films and TV that it opened a specificPlayStation film divisionto produce content. Several other acclaimed games are in various stages of development for either the big or small screen, making it an exciting time to be a fan of these properties. Casting choices for many of these upcoming releases are still up in the air, but there are a few solid choices who could bring these digital characters to life.
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Jason Momoa as Kratos
Often the most common choice in conversation when it comes to casting Kratos,Jason Momoafeatures all the right stuff to bring the god of war to life. Firstly, Momoa has the right physical presence to pull of the look of the character. Sporting an exceptionally muscular build, Momoa has proven his ability as an action star in hits likeAquaman.
However, Kratos is an emotionally damaged character, so it’s important to find an actor with a solid acting range to compliment their physical prowess. Thankfully, Momoa has exhibited both brutality and compassion in many of his roles. His role onApple’s hit TV seriesSeeas a fearless warrior exemplifies the toughness of Kratos, while his roles as a protective father in films likeBravenorSweet Girlshow that he can pull off nuanced dramatic moments.
Joseph Gordon-Levitt as Cole MacGrath
Levitt is one of the most talented actors in Hollywood right now, with a filmography across so many genres that he’s something of a chameleon. While he has appeared in comic book and science-fiction projects in the past, includingThe Dark Knight Rises, Levitt has never taken center stage as the principal protagonist for a blockbuster superhero movie.
Cole MacGrath from theInfamousfranchiseneeds an actor who can be tough as nails, but also show a human side, which is why Levitt would be perfect in the role. The surprising time-travel twists ofInfamousare similar to plot elements ofLooper, which Levitt previously starred in, showing his experience with wild science-fiction concepts.
Florence Pugh as Aloy
Florence Pugh has been a rising star in Hollywood these past few years, with career-making performances in the horror filmMidsommarand Oscar-nominated dramaLittle Women. Pugh’s acting range is versatile and engaging, as she always seems to bring her ‘A’ game to every film. While she is currently best known to many audiences as theMCU’s new Black Widow, she isn’t technically the star of the show.
All this could change if she swaps out dual pistols for a bow and arrow, filling the shoes ofHorizon Zero Dawn’smain character, Aloy. As a protagonist, Aloy is determined, but also full of spunk and nurturing qualities. Pugh’s stint in the MCU has shown she can partake in intense action scenes, but her other dramatic roles prove she is also capable of tenderness and even spot-on comic delivery.
Daisuke Tsuji as Jin Sakai
Jin Sakai fromGhost of Tsushimamay already have the perfect actor to portray him on-screen. Daisuke Tsuji provided both his voice and likeness forSucker Punch’s 2020 action-adventure game, and did such a fantastic job that it’s hard to imagine anyone else as the lone samurai warrior.
Tsuji’s acting credits aren’t as long or well-known as the other aforementioned actors, but that is a factor that could work to his advantage in afeature film/television adaption ofGhost of Tsushima. He can become completely lost in the role, and as a result, all audiences will see is the characters, sucking them further into the epic storyline of honor and revenge that helped define the last generation ofPlayStationconsoles.
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