The versatile Judas Law was set to play the son of Krypton, but ultimately decided against playing the character in the canceled film.
Years ago, X-Men: The Last Stand director Brett Ratner was developing a Superman movie for Warner Bros., and Jude Law was the first choice to play Superman/Clark Kent in the project. Although the law went through the entire process of considering the company, it finally dismissed the case after trying it. In an interview with The Playlist’s Discourse podcast, the actor talked about the experience and why he felt the role wasn’t right for him.
The first attraction and resistance of law
Law admits there was a “flirtatious process” when it came to the role of Superman, but he always felt somewhat comfortable with it. “And he said, ‘But you played Yon-Rog and Dumbledore!’ I know you can say that it just felt like a step too far,” says Lowe, reflecting his inner skepticism about taking on a different character than he’s played before.
Law also mentioned that there was no clear script when Brett Ratner was attached to the project. “Did they have a script? I don’t remember reading one. This was a long time ago. They brought me the addiction. They thought, ‘This might change your mind,'” the actor explained. The lack of a solid script added to the uncertainty about the project.
The experience of trying on the addiction
Law’s defining moment came when he tried on Superman’s suit. “I tried on the suit and I looked in the mirror and part of me thought at first, ‘Wow, this could be a good thing,’ and I thought, ‘No, you can’t – you can’t do this.’ You can’t’.” This introductory moment made Law accept the role for good. “And I didn’t sell myself out. I went and the movie never got made. So maybe it didn’t matter.”
Although many fans wonder what will happen to Law in Superman, the actor knows very well that it is not right for him. Your honesty and ability to listen to your own mind show admirable depth and self-knowledge. The choice of law emphasizes the importance of emotion before taking on a character, especially in the example of Superman.
The effect of legal decision on the work
It may seem crazy to some to turn down such a big role, but for Law, it was this decision that vindicated him as an actor. He went on to play complex and diverse characters such as Yonn-Rogg in the Marvel universe and Albus Dumbledore in the Fantastic Beasts films. These decisions show that the law is not afraid to choose projects that really suit him, rather than being taken by the appeal of big names.
Imagining Law as Superman is certainly interesting. His talent and acting skills brought a new dimension to the iconic superhero. However, his refusal to accept the role highlights a fundamental truth in acting: not every great role is right for every great actor. Law knew he couldn’t do the character justice, and his decision to walk away allowed other actors to step into the role of Superman.
Law’s story and his flirtation with the role of Superman provide fascinating insight into the behind-the-scenes decisions actors make. Fans always ask, “What if?” Whether you ask, it’s clear that the law made the right decision for him and his career. And so, the Superman universe continued to evolve, with the perfect actor maintaining the dignity and strength the character deserves to wear the red cape.