10 Movie Casting Choices That Should've Worked (But Didn't)

7. Ryan Reynolds As Hal Jordan - Green Lantern

A Nightmare on Elm Street Freddy Krueger 2010 Remake
Warner Bros.

In the DC universe, the Green Lanterns are an intergalactic police force who safeguard the universe. Even though many of these space cops have protected Earth, Hal Jordan is regarded as the official Green Lantern.

There are a lot of words to describe Hal. He's cocky, sarcastic, quick-witted, funny, and defiant, but still has a heart of gold.

So, when you hear those personality traits, the first name to spring to mind is probably Ryan Reynolds (or Han Solo). Since the Deadpool star has a knack for playing snarky heroes, Hal Jordan seemed like a perfect fit. And since Reynolds looks EXACTLY like the emerald-suited superhero, it would be ridiculous if he turned down the titular role in the 2009 film, Green Lantern.

Sadly, the live-action adaption didn't win over even the most die-hard DC fans. The CGI was appalling, the plot was oversimplified, and the action was generic.

Despite the fact Hal Jordan is one of the most complex DC superheroes, Reynolds plays him as a cocksure jerk, making it difficult to sympathise with him or find him the slightest bit likeable.

Contributor

James Egan has been with Whatculture for five years and prominently works on Horror, Film, and Video Games. He's written over 80 books including 1000 Facts about Horror Movies Vol. 1-3 1000 Facts about The Greatest Films Ever Made Vol. 1-3 1000 Facts about Video Games Vol. 1-3 1000 Facts About James Bond 1000 Facts About TV Shows