NFL
By: Rick O’Donnell
Now that James Gunn has taken over DC Studios, it’s said it’s only a matter of time before he brings in some of his network of actors who share his vision. One of those actors rumored to come aboard is Dave Bautista, who starred in Guardians of the Galaxy. Due to his size throughout his career, most people predicted he’d land the role of Bane in the new universe, however, there might be a better role.
After seeing the Superman movie trailer, the new DCU’s tone is different from this regime. We’re seeing a more grounded approach to Superman. What little we’ve seen so far, hints at Clark’s humanity, a staple of the character from the earliest of days and that should be the approach of each character going forward. There are plenty of opportunities for them to roll out any of the Rogues Gallery, but they’ve done Bane and the Joker to death.
So what’s left?
After he lost all the weight, no longer necessary for a wrestler’s physique, many have commented on how close of a resemblance he makes to another Batman villain Hugo Strange. If Bautista wants to spread his wings as an actor, then Strange might be a great fit for him. He’s come out of his shell acting in movies such as Dune, Knock at the Cabin, and Glass Onion but there’s still one more role he’d be the perfect fit for, Victor Fries/Mr. Freeze.
If they’re truly taking a more human approach to these characters, there’s no story better to tell than Mr. Freeze. If they take the Batman: The Animated Series approach with Fries cryogenically freezing his wife it would allow Bautista to play a mad scientist hell-bent on saving his wife by any means necessary. and turning to a life of crime to fund it.
Take his other roles into account when you picture this. Imagine Dave Bautista delivering a heartbroken monologue in the same dry monotone delivery he showed as Drax or Leonard in Knock at the Cabin. Picture him delivering the same over-the-top energy he used whenever Drax laughed to taunt and defy Batman. He’d even have the opportunity to show a softer side if they decide to build his backstory with flashbacks of his time with Nora. With the right chemistry with a co-star in these scenes, they could be the most impactful on his character/the movie.
As an actor looking to expand his repertoire, Victor Fries would allow Dave Bautista to play a smart and defiant doctor, a heartbroken lover, and a loving family man all in the same role. If James Gunn is considering bringing over some of his former Guardians cast to the DCU, then Dave Bautista as Victor Fries/Mr. Freeze should be in the cards. With the right script to take the audience on that heartbreaking journey, it could easily be his best role yet.
