Happy Feet director George Miller has reportedly been auditioning young actors en mass over the weekend, hoping to find superheroes for his big-screen treatment of DC Comics’ Justice League of America. The Hollywood Reporter estimates that 35-40 actors were invited to read for various parts in The Warner Bros. pic, including some name talent. Parts to be cast include Superman, Wonder Woman, Batman, Flash, Aquaman, Green Lantern and Martian Manhunter.
Television favorites reportedly in contention include The O.C.’s Adam Brody and Friday Night Lights cast members Minka Kelly, Adrianne Palicki and Scott Porter. Other names mentioned include Joseph Cross (Running With Scissors), D.J. Cotrona (Windfall), Mary Elizabeth Winstead (Grindhouse), Michael Angarano (Sky High), Teresa Palmer (Wolf Creek), Max Thieriot (Jumper) and rapper Common.
Jessica Beal (I Now Pronounce you Chuck and Larry) was recently in consideration for the roll of Wonder Woman, and Tom Welling, who plays a young Clark Kent in The CW’s popular series Smallville, was also rumored to be on the short list to play Superman. Warner Bros. is holding off on making any official announcements until all principal roles are cast.
Penned by Kieran and Michele Mulroney, the live-action film is being fast tracked due to a possible Writer’s Guild strike. The movie will feature a heavy dose of CG animation and other visual effects.
Before entering the animated world of Penguins, Miller helmed the live-action animal sequel Babe: Pig in the City and made a name for himself by making the cult favorite Mad Max films, which also made a star of fellow Australian Mel Gibson.
