Cap Casting: Hugo Weaving as the Red Skull?

According to Hollywood Reporter’s blog, Heat Vision, the actor Hugo Weaving, best known for his work as the villainous Agent Smith in the Matrix trilogy, is in delicate negotiations with Marvel Entertainment to play Captain America’s arch-nemesis, The Red Skull in the upcoming film, Captain America: The First Avenger.

Apparently it’s in the closing stages, but Marvel is being a demanding mistress and wanting a multi-picture contract, which is usually reserved for heroic roles.  I guess that means they assume Red Skull will be appearing in more than just the first flick?

Hugo Weaving and the director for Captain America: The First Avenger, Joe Johnston worked together before on the recently released picture, Wolfman, so I guess it makes sense they’re trying to work together again because it seems like these days, actors and directors are always trying to stick together.  (Though apparently Wolfman sucked, so maybe Weaving should look for a better offer?)  This would also not be Weaving’s first foray into the realm of comic movies, as he played the mysterious V in V for Vendetta in 2005.

I’m not sure if he’d make a cool Red Skull or not.  He’s not German, but you can fake that.  He’s good at playing evil, and a cold evil at that, and who’s more cold than the Red Skull?  I guess if he can master the accent and throw a bit more animation in his voice, he’d probably be great.  (All depends on the make-up/mask too!)

But what about our hero?  Who’s going to play him?  Still no word on that.  The Office’s John Krasinski was in the running, but recently signed a romantic comedy picture deal, so he’s out.  Woo!  Like John Krasinski, but definitely not as Captain America!  I’ve heard lately of possibly casting Chris Evans from Fantastic Four fame, but please god no.

I’m hoping they go unknown, because much like Superman, Captain America is one of those perfect hero types that really can’t be bogged down by “actor baggage.”   Surround him with all the movie stars you want, but make Cap himself a newbie that we have no preconceived notions about.  That’s my humble opinion, at any rate.

Anyway, here’s some Skull action to tide you over while you’re waiting for this flick to come out: