Jesse Eisenburg as Lex Luthor

So with the mixed reactions following the Eisenburg as Lex Luthor casting, I thought I would give some of my examples as to why this is a very good choice. Now obviously many were hoping for a Brian Cranston (I liked John Hamm myself) for the role, but thinking about this character realistically in today’s culture, I believe this casting decision makes loads of sense. Let’s see why.

Modern Day Lex

Lex has been portrayed in the comics, animated movies/television, and life action film/television. And with this array of character portrayal, the character has been seen in many different scopes. And while a few details have been altered, the core of the character is essentially the same. A billionaire, genius, who is hell bent on taking down Superman. The age, physicality, and general exterior has no meaning whatsoever. So a 5’7” Lex works. And NO it does not matter is Lex is bald. Not one bit!

The “real-world” approach DC/WB has taken with their film properties, gives us a little insight on how the character may be represented. In this modern day era, there has to be realistic reasoning as to why Lex would be a foe to Supes. Now, obviously there is a story in place that we don’t know, but we can still give some reasoning to the approach of these actions.

For example, Eisenburg is not appearing as a “tuff” or “strong” character; in regards to the physical aspect pertaining to Supes. This is a benefit in my mind’s eye. The hatred of Supes will come from different aspects in the story, but giving us a physical representation as well only helps in this cause. Lex will have to outdo Superman with his wits. This is not a punching contest, giving Kal a different kind of battle, than in the first film.

 

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FUN FACT: Both Henry Cavill (Superman) and Russell Crowe (Jor-El) have played characters named Kal (one spelled “Cal”) which were opposite Ben Affleck. Cavil in MOS 2 and Crowe in State of Play.

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Why He Works

Eisenburg is an Oscar nominated actor (Social Network), a film in which was very close to what this billionaire tycoon would be like. I will admit that every role I have seen him in, seem to have a very similar style; but if the boot fits. And I have also heard very good things about his new movie, The Double, where he plays two separate characters. So hopefully he can help his case with his performance in that film.

And even  though in “real life”, Eisenburg is only 5 months younger than Henry Cavill (to the day), I think we can all agree that this Luthor will be a few years younger than Cavill’s man of steel. Which is just another area of conflict for the characters. I am personally satisfied with this and all of the casting directions so far, and have high hopes for Eisenburg in this role, and future roles to come.

 

Well there it is. Let me know what you think: How do you feel Lex will/should be represented in this new Snyder version? Comment below. Thanks for reading!