The Alien Prequel is Dead, Instead We Get This

Brian “Pac” Sostak

Those of you that frequent this site know that one of, if not my most anticipated movie for 2012 was the Alien prequel that will be directed by Ridley Scott.  Alien is one of my favorite films of all time and Scott has tantalized me with rumors for his new film so frequently that I can escape the whirlwind of excitement.  First rumors of one of my favorite actresses, Natalie Portman, joining the cast popped up on my computer screen, and most recently speculation that Charlize Theron would be joining the cast in one of four major roles.  Today, however, will be the final time (most likely) that I will be able to write about this film, because today we mourn its death.

It makes no sense, there wasn't even an awning in its direction

 But from its ashes rises the phoenix, or rather Prometheus, an original concept that still contains enough Alien DNA to be recognizable to loyal fans of the series.  Opting for an “original” film as opposed to continuing the Alien franchise increases the speculation that 20th Century Fox and Scott are looking to spark a new franchise, early last year Scott hinted at a two film arc to the Alien franchise that branched out into new mythology.  Not much else has changed in regard to the film, it will still be shot in 3D utilizing the RED Epic cameras and the crew will still remain intact.

Want more?  Prometheus also has an official release date: March 9, 2012 meaning we have just over a year til this film hits theaters.  Still want more?  Okay, it is no longer a rumor that Noomi Rapace will starring in the film, it is confirmed.  Confirmation of Rapace leaves 3 major roles yet to be filled, and one of those is still available for Charlize Theron. However, with the schedules of Prometheus and Snow White and the Huntsman conflicting, it is likely that Theron will have to choose between the roles.  Unfortunately, Snow White and the Huntsman offers the role of a villain, as opposed to a supporting role to Rapace, so speculation may be that Theron will not be joining the cast.

Which leaves us to our final bit of news/rumors as to who will fill out the cast.  If Theron opts to turn down the role, Angelina Jolie may be next in line.  Other names floating around the film have been Michael Fassbender (Inglorious Basterds), Michelle Yeoh (Memoirs of a Geisha), and Gemm Arterton (Quantum of Solace, Prince of Persia, Clash of the Titans).  While I’m not excited about the possibility of joining the cast, and don’t have an opinion on Yeoh, Micheal Fassbender seems like a good fit and Gemma Arterton is one of my favorite actresses on the rise.  Theron, Fassbender, and Arterton…

Are you serious?! YAYYYYY!

How do you feel about the new direction 20th Century Fox and Ridley Scott are taking with this film?  Who would you like to see cast alongside Noomi Rapace?  Do you wanna go to the midnight showing with me in March?

Rachel Weisz the Next Bond Girl?

Bond fans rejoiced yesterday as news flowed about the revitalized state of the Bond series.  Who knew it would be so soon after hearing that Daniel Craig was returning with Sam Mendes to star and direct in (respectfully) the 23rd installment of the Bond franchise that we’d already get our first rumors of who would be the next Bond girl.  A staple of the Bond franchise is the Bond girl whether it be a big name star or an up and coming actress, it is usually an unforgettable appearance from a beautiful lady matching wits with our favorite 00 in MI6.

Unforgettable is not always a good thing

Following in the footsteps of Eva Green (Casino Royale), Olga Kurylenko, and Gemma Arterton (Quantum of Solace) may be Rachel Weisz (The Lovely Bones, The Constant Gardener).  According to Starpulse, Weisz is currently in talks with director Sam Mendes to appear in the next untitled James Bond film.  Weisz and Bond star Daniel Craig have been linked romantically since the filming of their upcoming film Dream House, further fueling the speculation that she could be the next Bond co-star.

 

Despite Bond 23 having no official title or no finalized script or synopsis to base judgment of this casting rumor, I think Weisz would be a perfect fit for a Bond girl.  She has all the characteristics needed to fill the role: she’s a very strong and talented actress with a proven filmography, she can match wits with the womanizing spy, and she has screen grabbing beauty. 

 

How do you feel about Rachel Weisz as the next Bond girl?  Is there another actress you’d rather see with Craig on-screen for the next installment?