Summary
- Jesse Eisenberg playfully advises Nicholas Hoult to make the role of Lex Luthor his own, separate from Eisenberg’s portrayal in Batman v Superman.
- Eisenberg emphasizes the personal connection actors have with their characters, regardless of the project’s scale or nature.
- Superman: Legacy recognizes the timeless legacy of Lex Luthor, with each actor bringing a unique essence to the role, and encourages embracing a unique vision in comic book adaptations.
Jesse Eisenberg, known for his unique take on Lex Luthor in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, recently offered some candid advice to Nicholas Hoult, set to portray the next incarnation of Lex Luthor in the highly anticipated Superman: Legacy.
Despite receiving a polarized reception for his role in the DCEU, Eisenberg approached his tenure as the villain with notable self-awareness and humor. During a conversation, as reported by Variety, Eisenberg playfully suggested that Hoult should perhaps steer clear of his portrayal to truly make the role his own. “Don’t watch me!” Eisenberg quipped, embodying the spirit of an actor who understands the deeply personal connection one forms with a character, regardless of the project’s nature or scale.
Beyond the playful banter lies Eisenberg’s recognition of the intrinsic bond an actor forges with their roles, a sentiment that resonates within the industry. “Whenever you play a role you feel connected to it. There’s no way around it. Any time you do anything, even if it’s a movie that’s a Hollywood kind of thing, you connect,” he elaborated, highlighting the universal experience of actors immersing themselves in their characters.
Eisenberg’s portrayal as Lex Luthor was one of high expectations and intense scrutiny. The appetite for a richer embodiment of his Lex character grew, particularly after the intriguing post-credits scene in Justice League, building on his debut in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice.”However, the shifting sands of the DCEU and the final curtain call with Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom signaled an end to this chapter, leaving Eisenberg’s hope for a grand return as the cunning antagonist unfulfilled.
The Dawn of the DCU and the Legacy of Lex Luthor in Superman’s Saga
Transitioning from one cinematic universe to another, the end of the DCEU has given rise to DCU, an exciting new era helmed by James Gunn and Peter Safran at DC Studios. Superman: Legacy emerges as one of the inaugural projects in this fresh narrative arc, introducing Hoult’s Lex Luthor alongside David Corenswet’s Superman and Rachel Brosnahan’s Lois Lane. Offering a fresh take on these enduring characters, the film equally acknowledges the timeless legacy of Lex Luthor, a role that has gripped generations of viewers.
From Lyle Talbot’s initial portrayal to the memorable performances by Gene Hackman and Kevin Spacey, the character of Lex Luthor has been a cornerstone of the Superman saga. Each actor brought a unique essence to the role, crafting a rich tapestry of villainy that continues to evolve with each rendition. As Nicholas Hoult steps into this illustrious lineage, Jesse Eisenberg’s words offer a blend of humor and wisdom—a reminder that in the ever-changing landscape of comic book adaptations, embracing one’s unique vision can be the key to leaving an unforgettable mark.
The historic feud continues with the release of Superman: Legacy in theaters on July 11, 2025, etching another memorable moment in the extensive chronicle of Superman films.
This story originally appeared on Movieweb
