With the news breaking that Black Manta would be the villain of Aquaman, I decided to create a list of candidates capable of bringing our underwater villain to life. Created Bob Haney and Nick Cardy, Black Manta is one of DC’s most beloved characters but yet to appear on the big screen.
5. Idris Elba
Elba is at number five because he’s a long shot. The chances of Warner Bros. and DC getting him are currently slim to none. He has a contract with Marvel that probably won’t be finished until after Aquaman hits theaters. But, if the chances weren’t slim, Elba would be my number one choice for this list. His villainous roles are always intimidating and frightening and I believe it’s time he’s had a chance to shine in a superhero film. Besides, Elba’s look just screams Black Manta.
4. Jamie Foxx
Foxx’s last foray into the superhero did not go well. Foxx played an over-the-top villain in The Amazing Spider-Man 2. His talent wasn’t capable of shining under that direction and I think he’d do well in a more serious toned movie playing a villain like Black Manta.
3. Cuba Gooding J.R.
After having a great start to his career and a few flops, Cuba Gooding J.R. pulled off one of the best disappearing acts since Houdini. When he finally reappeared he put a spark back into his career. He made his return to acting in 2016, starring in American Crime Story: The People v. O.J. Simpson as the titular character. With the shows getting great reviews and Gooding’s performance praised, he seems like prime talent to go after.
2. Micheal K. Williams
Known for his role as Omar from The Wire, Williams is the embodiment of villainy. He’s shown a lot of range and diversity throughout multiple roles from Ghostbusters and the aforementioned The Wire. Williams has expressed his interest in doing a comic book film like Black Panther. While it’s unlikely Marvel will scoop him up, Warner Bros. and DC definitely should.
1. David Oyelowo
Oyelowo is a tremendous actor. There’s no doubt about that. He was great in Lee Daniels: The Butler and just incredible in Selma. Everything about him matches up with the character. His acting skills are tremendous, he has the look and he has the voice. DC Films, this is your guy. He’s primed for a superhero film and I think a villainous role would likely fit the actor best.
Aquaman is being directed by James Wan and is set to star Jason Momoa as the titular superhero. The film is currently slated to hit theaters on July 27th, 2018.
