So much for that Christian Bale rumor, huh?
Deadline is reporting that Javier Bardem has officially been offered the part of Roland Deschain in Ron Howard’s THE DARK TOWER. Deschain, the quiet, tortured hero of Stephen King’s massive story, is a hotly sought after part. Other names in competition were apparently Viggo Mortensen and, as we reported earlier, Christian Bale.
If he accepts the part, Bardem will be signing up for quite an undertaking. He will portray Roland in three films and at least one TV season. The plan is to release a film, then a season of the series, another film, then another season and finally the last movie. However, the second season of the show would be a prequel so Bardem would be able to skip out on that one.
Ron Howard has been enthusiastic about his adaptation even when others have been lukewarm. As a major King fan, Howard definitely wasn’t my first pick but I’m willing to see what the guy’s got in store, he did direct RANSOM after all. I’m more concerned by screenwriter Akiva Goldsman. Burn me once, Akiva, shame on you. Burn me twice…
Even with my hesitations, I’m very excited for this. Fans of the novels have been waiting what feels like eons to see Roland and his Ka-tet on the big screen. As for Bardem, he’s a brilliant actor and one who could faithfully portray the dark, complex character of Roland. I hope he accepts. Come on, Javier, we’re all counting on you!
