20th Century Fox’s search for the actor to play Doctor Victor Frankenstein in their upcoming adaptation of the classic Mary Shelley story is now complete. The studio has chosen James McAvoy, and contract negotiations are currently under way to add the actor to the cast of Frankenstein.
There were a lot of talented actors vying for the role of the Doctor, including Jack Huston, and Toby Kebbel, but as talented as those two are, McAvoy is a much bigger name, so Fox choosing him definitely makes sense. It’ll be interesting to see how big a role Frankenstein actually plays in this version of the story but hopefully it’s substantial, as McAvoy is always an entertaining actor to watch.
Daniel Radcliffe is already signed on as Igor, a role that should be very exciting to watch him take on. Early descriptions of Max Landis’ script have described Igor as pathologically dirty and dressed in clown’s clothing. Radcliffe has been branching out lately, starring in a variety of horror and other, darker films, proving he is much more than the kid who played Harry Potter. This should be another solid step in that direction.
Paul McGuigan is directing the film, with production slated to begin this fall and a goal release of October 17th, 2014.
This isn’t the only Frankenstein story releasing in 2014 though. I, Frankenstein will hit theaters in January of that year. The two films will likely be very different as I, Frankenstein is set in a dystopic present where demons and gargoyles battle for ultimate power. Then of course there’s the Guillermo del Toro version, which is also in development.
What do you think of James McAvoy playing Victor Von Frankenstein? Is this a role you’re excited to see him in? Share your thoughts on Frankenstein in the comments section below.