Every author daydreams about casting hypothetical movie versions of his books. Today I present to you my preferred cast for 2017 Dragon Award finalist The Secret Kings.
Note: this list will only cover characters who are new to this book or who haven’t been cast before. Actors already chosen for Nethereal and Souldancer will reprise their roles if applicable.
Now on to the SK cast list!
Izlaril Nizari: Javier Bardem
Spanish actor Javier Bardem has established well-earned notoriety for his understated portrayals of relentless sociopaths in hit films like No Country for Old Men and Skyfall. He’d be perfect as the final product of a millennia-old breeding program designed to engineer the perfect assassin.
Yato Freeman: Pete Postlethwaite
Though this beloved British actor passed away in 2011, this is a fantasy casting exercise. I’ve reserved the right to cast via time machine before, and I can think of no better reason to invoke that privilege than to bring back Pete Postlethwaite to play Teg Cross’ long-suffering steersman Yato.
Celwen: Amanda Westlake
Exotic looks and a role in the Lethal Weapon TV series recommend Amanda Westlake for the role of a Gen pilot who repeatedly finds herself drawn into high octane action scenes.
Lykaon: Clancy Brown
If you can think of a better choice than the Kurgan to play Shaiel’s master werewolf warlord lieutenant, I’d like to hear it.
Magist Kelgrun: Mandy Patinkin
Not only does Mandy Patinkin look the part, anyone who’s seen his cynically avuncular performance on Dead Like Me knows he’d be a great fit for the Soul Cycle’s duplicitous, patronizing string-puller.
Magist Gien: Tom Green
Canadian weirdo Tom Green would bring the requisite wild-eyed, spastic energy to the Shadow Caste’s resident head case. Plus, he could probably use the work.
Anris: Idris Elba
Idris Elba’s recent turn from gifted actor to professional minority has been disheartening, but the fact remains that the man can play the hell out of the duty-bound soldier on the front line of a world facing malevolent invaders. Paint him purple, and he’s ideal for the angelic captain of Nakvin’s army.
That’s my dream cast for The Secret Kings. Post your own choices for the characters listed here, or any I forgot, in the comments. And don’t forget to check out the award-nominated book!
