It appears that the unprecedented success of the television mini-series, Hatfields and McCoys has reawakened Hollywood’s faith in Kevin Costner.
The former box office titian is now being considered for two high profile roles, having been offered the “co-lead” in Kenneth Branagh’s Jack Ryan reboot opposite Chris Pine – while also being at the top of the list to take the lead in Luc Besson’s Taken-esqe Three Days To Kill.
Costner was one of Hollywood’s biggest box office draws throughout the 80s and 90s, anchoring a slew of high grossing films. Even 1995’s Waterworld, a perceived flop, grossed $88 million on its release at the domestic box office and over $264 million globally (unadjusted). The star has always forged his own unique path, choosing to star in (and direct) an eclectic mix of projects.
In recent years Costner has taken a relaxed approach to his film career (starring in just three films since 2007), preferring to spend his time touring and recording with his band, (the rather good) Modern West.
However, it now looks like he’s about to get back on the acting saddle once more. According to Deadline:
“The Jack Ryan role is a new creation, but a close cousin to the role of CIA bigwig Admiral Greer that was played by James Earl Jones in Patriot Games. Costner’s role is being invented because Jones will likely be in the prequel, but essentially Costner would play Ryan’s mentor who recruits him and shows him the ropes.”
It’ll be interesting to see if Costner takes the role in Branagh’s film, as he previously turned down the part of Jack Ryan in John McTiernan’s The Hunt For Red October.
Three Days To Kill is a more interesting beast altogether, according to Deadline:
“Costner has been offered the role of Ethan Renner, a government assassin who is dying. Before he goes, he is determined to reconcile with his daughter, while taking on one final mission.”
Adi Hasak and Luc Besson wrote the script for the film, which (and this is the potential downside) may be directed by McG.
It is also now believed that Costner is no longer attached to Disney’s sporting drama, McFarland. However, he will be seen in the 2013 Superman adventure, Man of Steel where he plays Jonathan Kent (he even narrates one of the film’s two teaser trailers). Costner is also potentially in the mix for an all-star remake of The Magnificent Seven, which may (or may not) star Tom Cruise and Matt Damon.
I’m excited for this potential new phase in Kevin Costner’s career. As a long-time fan, I’ve been through the period where it was “uncool” to like his work; however, recent years have seen many of his so-called ‘lesser works’ reappraised. If you are ever in doubt of the man’s talents, then check out his critical and commercial run from 1987 to 1993, when he made The Untouchables, Bull Durham, Field of Dreams, Revenge, Dances With Wolves, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, JFK, The Bodyguard and A Perfect World. That’s pretty impressive.
Keep reading Screen Rant for details on Jack Ryan and Three Days To Kill.
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Source: Deadline
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Three Days To Kill sounds interesting, might do for Costner what Taken did for Liam Neeson.
I like Costner, the guy is a solid and dependable actor, happy to see him in high profile films again.
On a related note, why do they keep trying to make Jack Ryan an action hero? The guy was a CIA analysist. And Clancy’s books, while some where heavy and dull, had some great plots that could have been adapted for great films.
Not saying I won’t see the reboot, Chris Pine is a great actor, I’ll always watch his stuff.
A welcomed return, though I’ve never stopped watching Costner’s work. I’m glad to hear James Earl Jones will likely be in the new Jack Ryan film. It’s been too long since I’ve seen him. Hopefully Pine will make a credible analyst.
Not sure why Kevin Costner found Hollywood disfavor.
Whatever the mystery it should never have happened.
He has it all and more than actors in Hollywood’s favor.
after a few box office disasters glad to see him getting some real lead roles for a change.
Huge fan. Check out Mr. Brooks for something newer of his – very good.
I agree, Kev is awesome, will watch him in anything, Mr Brooks is quality and he kicks Kutchers ass in the Guardian, plus Waterworld, still epic!
I also love the fact that he binned off retard Stephen Baldwin over that whole oil cleaning affair, get back to the Bio Dome Baldwin!
I like Kevin’s music, but it would be great to see more of him onscreen again, if not in these particular roles, then in anything he’d like to do. He’s never been out of favor with some of us.
LOL that magnificent seven remake sounds god-awful
Kevin Costner is “Jack Ryan” sounds promising. Three Days To Kill sounds like a good idea for Luc Benson, however I’m not sure about picking McG as the film director. Please Luc direct the film yourself not the evil McG!
I became a Costner fan after seeing “No Way Out”.
4 words… 3000 Miles to Graceland. Another? Tin Cup. For every Bodyguard, there is a Swing Vote… Rumor Has It, anyone?
Like many actors, he had a prime and has been on the way down for a decade now. Bring back the “original” Jack Ryan if you need an old guy. ALEC BALDWIN FTW!!!
Yeah I think 3000 Miles to Graceland sealed the fate of most of the actors involved! Look at Christian Slater!
Kevin Costner had me at, “I’m Robin of Lockesley!” He is unappreciated by many who simply listen to what others have to say and let them make up their minds for them. I enjoy each and every movie KC has made. His music is outstanding and there is just nothing the man cannot do.