Marvel Studios has finally chosen their Silver Surfer. Emmy-winning actress Julia Garner, popularly known for her role in Netflix’s Ozark, is slated to portray the charismatic comic book character in the much-anticipated Fantastic Four. Garner’s casting has sparked mixed reactions, however, with criticism from actor LaKeith Stanfield.
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Key Takeaways:
– Julia Garner has been revealed as Marvel’s Silver Surfer in the upcoming Fantastic Four movie.
– Garner will portray Shalla-Bal, Silver Surfer’s romantic interest in the comic book series.
– LaKeith Stanfield expressed disappointment about Garner’s casting, as he was expecting to fill the role.
– Matt Shakman from WandaVision fame will direct the movie, set for release in summer 2025.
A New Take on Silver Surfer
The Marvel Cinematic Universe is bringing in the Fantastic Four, guided by Pedro Pascal, known for his performance in The Last of Us. Set against Silver Surfer and big villain Galactus, the film is creating a buzz among the comic enthusiasts.
Garner is confirmed for the role of Shalla-Bal, the Silver Surfer’s leading love interest in the Marvel Comics universe. In the original series, Norrin Radd (the Silver Surfer) and Shalla-Bal desired to stay together, but those plans were often thwarted by Norrin’s dedication to his work or unforeseeable events.
This Instance of Gender-Swapping in Marvel
Gender-swapping roles in Marvel movies is no novelty. Marvel Studios has time and again cast female actors in traditionally male roles, as seen with the characters Ajak in Eternals, Taskmaster in Black Widow, and Ghost in Ant-Man and the Wasp. Garner’s casting as the Silver Surfer is another example of the studio’s shake-up in gender roles.
LaKeith Stanfield’s Disagreement on Casting
While Garner’s casting was met with positive reactions overall, LaKeith Stanfield, a household name for his versatile roles in Sorry to Bother You and Judas and the Black Messiah, airily shared his opposition. He revealed his disappointment via CanWeGetSomeToast, saying, “Thought it was going to be me but ig.”
Stanfield suggested he had eyes on the role that went to Garner. Marvel fans have since rallied behind Stanfield on social media, voicing their support for seeing him don the famed silver suit.
The Fantastic Four Behind the Scenes
The Fantastic Four movie is the brainchild of Matt Shakman, the celebrated director behind WandaVision. The screenplay is a collective effort by Josh Friedman, Jeff Kaplan, Eric Pearson, and Ian Springer. With production starting soon, the movie is scheduled for release next year.
Apart from Garner as the Silver Surfer, other confirmed castings include Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm/Invisible Woman, Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm/The Thing, Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm/Human Torch, and Pedro Pascal as Reed Richard/Mr. Fantastic.
Future for Fantastic Four and Stanfield
Despite the disappointment over Garner’s casting, anticipation remains sky-high for The Fantastic Four, which is set for a July 25, 2025, premiere. As for Stanfield, it would seem Marvel fans, eager for his inclusion in the Cinematic Universe, will be watching upcoming casting decisions with interest.
As the Fantastic Four roars into production, eyes and ears will keenly be on all related news. For now, it’s suffice to say, the universes of both Marvel and their fans are set for an exciting ride ahead.
