The “Han Solo” solo flick’s short List has been revealed and it’s what was expected. But, is it what fans want?
Coming off the elephantine success of ‘The Force Awakens,’ Disney gives fans fodder for the feast. Up until now, only slim reports and internet conjecture have surrounded the Solo prequel project. In a recent Variety exclusive, it is revealed that actors such as Miles Teller, Ansel Elgort, Dave Franco, Jack Reynor, Scott Eastwood, Logan Lerman, Emory Cohen, and Blake Jenner are being considered to play the brash and smooth talking young smuggler.
I have to say, while I and many others expected this list, I am rather disappointed with the meager choices. Off bat, if it was me, I would cut Miles Teller, Dave Franco and Blake Jenner from the list. While Teller has proven his Oscar caliber chops in last season’s “Whiplash,” I have seen little on-screen action prowess. Franco and Jenner both have more of a comedic vibe, which although Solo has, is not enough to make me comfortable with them landing the role. More over, none of them really have the right ‘Look.’ Solo brings with him a strong presence and, the character’s inherent silliness aside, needs an actor that can deliver such a performance. If I had to choose from the current list, I would likely land on Ansel Elgort (“Divergent”) for his action experience and having a young Solo look.
Honestly, I would prefer to see a no-name or lesser known actor take the reigns. That method always works better. No pre-conceived notions. No expectations. Less room for the audience to get let down. Take John Boyega and Daisy Ridely for example. Before “The Force Awakens,” Ridley was practically unknown and Boyega was in a three year down-period after the cult British urban invasion flick, “Attack the Block.” While certain quadrants of the internet were set ablaze after the initial Star Wars teaser trailer (primarily racists), fans can collectively agree that both Finn and Rey were both spot-on executions.
Whoever ultimately gets picked to play the young Solo would fill the role not only in the character’s origin film, but also possibly pilot a brief cameo in the currently-in-production “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.” While Lucasfilm has yet to make public any favorites among the current field of contenders, the word is that the final decision should come in the next few weeks.
The Han Solo spinoff film is set to premiere on May 25, 2018.
What do you think about Disney’s short list for the upcoming Han Solo prequel? We want to know. So let us know in the comments section below.
Source: Variety