Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice was the second film in Zack Snyder’s rendition of the DC Universe. The movie, originally released in 2016, failed to become a huge success, opposite to what many experts predicted.
While the movie had several flaws, most fans were disappointed with the casting of Jesse Eisenberg as Superman’s arch-nemesis, Lex Luthor.
Kevin Spacey’s Made a Huge Prediction About Jesse Eisenberg’s Lex Luthor in Zack Snyder’s Take at DC
Jesse Eisenberg was cast as Lex Luthor in 2014. Just a month or so later, two-time Oscar winner Kevin Spacey shared his thoughts on the decision. The actor who played the character in the 2006 film, Superman Returns expected big things from Eisenberg, as per a report by Batman News.
First of all, I think [Jesse Eisenberg] is a remarkable actor. He’s just going to f***ing own it. I think it’s a great idea and I wish him the best with it
Jesse Eisenberg’s best work features in Now You See Me and The Social Network. However, playing Luthor was a much different role for him.
After all, Luthor is regarded as Superman’s greatest foe, and he succeeded in killing him with the help of Doomsday (the recycled corpse of General Zod).
Was Jesse Eisenberg’s Portrayal of Lex Luthor Bad?
Eisenberg is a terrific actor as he rose to fame by playing Mark Zuckerberg. Eisenberg’s portrayal of Lex Luthor was not close to the character in the comics in The Social Network. The role showcased Eisenberg in his natural habitat and he seemed like the perfect person to play the Facebook founder.
However, Luthor’s character is usually a much calmer and calculated character in the comics. Eisenberg’s portrayal wasn’t even close to it.
But there’s a catch. Eisenberg wasn’t actually playing the genius villain that fans have fallen in love with over the years. Instead, he was cast to play Alexander Luthor Jr.
Luthor in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice made several references to his father, Alexander. It was a confusing decision since Luthor’s father in the comics is known as Lionel.
A compelling addition to this theory is the fact that Eisenberg’s character is younger than Batman in DCEU. However, the original Luthor is older than the Dark Knight in comics.
All things considered, whether Eisenberg portrayed Lex Luthor or his son, it wasn’t a welcome casting decision and he may never get a chance to play the iconic villain again in the DCEU.