The Shazam and Black Adam movies are coming to theaters in the next few years, and fans can hardly wait to witness the epic super-showdown that will occur within the films.
Videos by ComicBook.com
Boy-turned-god Shazam, versus the deadly ancient warrior Black Adam – it’s bound to be mesmerizing.
Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson has long been cast as the villain, so Warner Bros. now just has to work on finding his rival.
This casting decision is difficut, because a delicate balance is needed for Shazam. The actor chosen needs to be able to capture the boyish attitude of Shazam’s inner-monologue, but he also needs to be believable as The Rock’s foe.
There are only a few actors who could pull this off, and we’ve got a couple of suggestions. Click through the slides to see five actors who could hold their own against The Rock’s Black Adam.
Tom Hardy
Tom Hardy may be a little on the gritty side for Shazam, but he certainly knows how to pack a punch.
Sure, The Rock is much taller than Hardy, but the way Hardy carries himself is intimidating enough. He could stand toe-to-toe with The Rock, and you’d totally believe it.
On top of his physical shape, Hardy is just an incredible actor. If The Rock brought the charm and enthusiasm, hardy could counter it with the perfect level of intimidation.
Charlie Hunnam
We’ve mentioned Charlie Hunnam before as a possible Green Arrow choice, but he could fit into the DCEU in more ways than one.
Hunnam has stayed in great shape over the last couple of years, so it wouldn’t take much more work to pack on some extra muscle.
Through his work on Sons Of Anarchy, Hunnam showed audiences that he can be likeable, while still posing a threat to his enemies.
Channing Tatum
Channing Tatum is one of the most lovable guys in Hollywood, and a partnership with The Rock would guarantee fans would flood to the theater for Shazam.
The actor definitely has the build to square off against Black Adam, and his comedic timing has continued to improve year after year. Tatum also has a ton of boyish charm, and that could play well for the character.
A boy-turned-superhuman? Sounds just like Channing Tatum.
Liam Hemsworth
While one Hemsworth brother reigns supreme in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, another one could come and make waves on the DC side of things.
Liam Hemsworth is an imposing force, and he wouldn’t look entirely outmatched when facing off against The Rock.
Let’s remember that the two actors worked together on Empire State, so the chemistry and friendship is already there.
Gerard Butler
Yes, Gerard Butler is a little older than the other Shazam choices, but we all remember his role in 300. The great King Leonidas wiped out the armies of Persia, and Butler turned into a freak of nature to do so.
Action fans have been waiting for a Johnson/Butler showdown for years now, and Shazam could present the best opportunity to do so.
Perhaps the biggest aid to Butler however, is his ability to play a touching and emotionally subtle character. That skill could really come in handy when Shazam has to deal with the realities of his other half.
Who would you like to see take on The Rock in Shazam? Let us know in the comments below!
