The concept of a connected Dark Universe in films, featuring characters like Dracula and Frankenstein’s monster, which was initially planned for the 21st century, is no more. This idea has been put to rest for quite some time now. However, recent movie adaptations such as “The Invisible Man,” “Wolf Man,” and “Renfield” in the 2020s, which are modern takes on Universal Monsters, suggest a fresh approach rather than a continuation of the original plan. The name Dark Universe persists only at Universal theme parks. Effectively, the proposed franchise that was to be initiated by “The Mummy” film in 2017 no longer exists.
The “Dark Universe” has been laid to rest, yet the lofty aspirations associated with this series endure as internet folklore. Particularly intriguing is the idea of the notable actors who were initially considered for pivotal roles in this saga. One wonders if the Dark Universe might have found some footing had these A-listers been secured. Alas, that question shall never be answered, nor can we know how these five actors would have handled their roles in blockbuster monster films set within the Dark Universe. Here’s to a new realm of gods and monsters, inhabited by the uncast actors of the Dark Universe.
5. Channing Tatum as Ven Helsing
For many years, characters similar to Van Helsing in popular media were typically portrayed as elderly men without hesitation. However, this notion was shattered by Hugh Jackman in 2004 with his standalone Van Helsing film, making the character synonymous with a younger, muscular hero in the minds of cinema-goers. The Dark Universe hinted at continuing this trend with speculation surrounding Channing Tatum as the Van Helsing role. Tatum was linked to several high-profile films in the mid-2010s that didn’t materialize, such as a solo Gambit movie or a Ghostbusters spin-off featuring Chris Pratt. Unfortunately, his Van Helsing also fell into the category of unrealized projects, particularly after Universal reconsidered its strategy for monster movies.
4. Scarlett Johansson for Creature from the Black Lagoon
In other words, when considering an update for the “Creature from the Black Lagoon”, it might be wise to use a stunt actor in a motion-capture suit for the monster role. Nevertheless, any modern adaptation of this iconic horror film should feature a well-known actress as the human character that the Gill-Man becomes smitten with. In this case, Scarlett Johansson was thought to be suitable for this part. Having her on board could have linked the developing Dark Universe to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, albeit indirectly. Unfortunately, this contemporary version of “Creature from the Black Lagoon” failed to gain traction within the Dark Universe.
3. Dwayne Johnson as The Wolfman
Initially, discussions centered around Dwayne Johnson taking up the role of The Wolfman in the reboot of the Dark Universe during the 2010s, prior to Ryan Gosling and Christopher Abbott’s involvement. Given Johnson’s imposing physique, he would have presented a stark contrast from previous actors portraying The Wolfman. However, with Johnson already being an intimidating figure, it was unclear how his transformation into a hairy beast would be executed. Despite the intriguing concept and Johnson’s box office prowess in the mid-2010s, the Dark Universe’s take on The Wolfman never materialized.
2. Angelina Jolie as The Bride of Frankenstein
Initially, 2017’s “The Mummy” was set to be followed by the second installment of the Dark Universe, titled “The Bride of Frankenstein,” directed by Bill Condon. In this movie, Condon had Angelina Jolie in mind for the lead role as the Bride, while Javier Bardem was already cast as Frankenstein’s Monster. With Jolie in such a famous character, “The Bride of Frankenstein” might have had a more successful run at the box office compared to “The Mummy.” Unfortunately, this project never came to fruition due to “The Mummy” being a massive box office flop. Even Angelina Jolie’s star power couldn’t save “The Bride of Frankenstein” from the downfall of the Dark Universe.
1. Tom Hardy as Dr. Jekyll/Mr. Hyde
In “The Mummy,” Tom Hardy was initially considered for the role of Dr. Jekyll/Mr. Hyde, led by Russell Crowe in Prodigium. However, before assuming this crucial part, producers approached Hardy who, known for his affection for eccentric accents, seemed a perfect fit for the Cockney-voiced Mr. Hyde. Yet, he declined the offer. Interestingly, just over a year after “The Mummy’s” release, Hardy starred in his own interpretation of Jekyll/Hyde dynamics through his lead role in 2018’s Venom. Given that playing Venom proved to be an astute career decision for Hardy, he opted for it instead of The Mummy!
2017’s version of “The Mummy” is now up for rental or purchase at various digital stores. Meanwhile, “The Wolf Man” is currently showing in cinemas.
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2025-01-21 02:10