Sebastian Stan and His Superhero Journey

Let’s talk about Sebastian Stan! He’s strutting his stuff in indie films like A Different Man and I, Tonya, but we all know him for his superhero shenanigans. Since he first donned the Winter Soldier’s gear in 2011’s Captain America: The First Avenger, he’s been Bucky Barnes-ing it up in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. And guess what? Rumor has it he might just swing over to the DC side in The Batman: Part II. Yep, that’s right!

The Audition that Never Was

But wait! Stan’s superhero aspirations go back even further. He spilled the beans on the Happy, Sad, Confused podcast about how he auditioned for the role of Hal Jordan in the notorious 2011 blunder, Green Lantern. Picture this: Stan rocking up to the audition only to find himself in a room with Justin Timberlake, Jared Leto, Ryan Reynolds, and a surprise guest or two. Can you imagine the panic? Stan recalls, “I’m looking at these guys, going, ‘I’m totally out of my league here!’”

Oops, Ryan Reynolds Got That One

Fast forward a bit, and we find Reynolds flying around as Hal Jordan, the reckless test pilot turned intergalactic hero. Directed by the talented Martin Campbell and featuring some big names like Blake Lively and Tim Robbins, you’d think this film would have been a hit. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t! It barely broke even and was slammed by critics left and right.

The Downfall of Green Lantern

What exactly went wrong with Green Lantern? Well, let’s just say it wasn’t just one thing. The title alone sounds a bit confusing to the folks who just want some mindless enjoyment! Hal Jordan isn’t the easiest superhero to root for, either—his character arc involves everything from questionable dating decisions to murdering his pals. You know, typical hero stuff!

Reynolds’ Snarky Performance

Reynolds brought his usual snark to the role, strutting around like a guy who just found out he’s been picked for the dance squad. The first time we meet him? He’s dashing off after a one-night stand and forgetting the lady’s name—charming, right? And his job? He’s all about showing off his piloting skills, with zero care for the consequences. Yep, he sure knows how to win friends and influence people!

A Missed Opportunity for Stan

Now, if Stan had snagged that role, he might have turned that awkward material into something surprisingly watchable. Known for his roles as quirky outsiders and moody folks, he could have brought some serious depth to ol’ Hal. Alas, it was not meant to be, and the film fizzled out.

The Future of Green Lantern

Since then, Green Lantern has been banished from live-action limelight until Nathan Fillion popped up as Guy Gardner, a different kind of Green Lantern jerk, in last year’s Superman. And this year, we can expect Kyle Chandler to step into Hal Jordan’s shoes once more in the HBO series Lanterns alongside Aaron Pierre as John Stewart. Fingers crossed for a better outcome!

Stan’s Silver Lining

But don’t feel too bad for Stan! He’s doing just fine, thank you very much. Reflecting on that missed opportunity, he admitted, “Honestly, I’m kind of relieved it didn’t pan out. I don’t think I could have handled that kind of spotlight!” And here he is, balancing indie films and his Marvel duties while possibly donning a cape with the DC gang. Not too shabby!”