The Impact of Script Quality on Casting: The Star Wars Case Study

In the realm of film and television, the quality of a script is often the backbone that defines an actor's performance. This article explores whether the secrecy and poor scripts in certain Star Wars productions, such as 'The Force Awakens,' might have influenced the casting of actors like Michael B. Jordan, and whether there is a need for a more transparent and equitable system to avoid missing out on excellent talent.

Michael B. Jordan and 'The Force Awakens'

Michael B. Jordan, an acclaimed actor known for his roles in 'Creed' and 'Black Panther,' auditioned for ‘The Force Awakens’ but reportedly did not get the part. This brought into question the impact of plot secrecy and script quality on casting decisions. For instance, why was John Boyega cast in the role of Finn, while Michael B. Jordan did not secure the part he sought?

Script Quality and Actor Suitability

When considering whether a script is suitable for an actor, several factors come into play. A script should not only provide an actor with a challenging and engaging role but also offer a narrative that enhances and matches the actor's personal style and range. If a script is poorly written or lacks substance, the actor's talent may go underutilized.

Take, for example, the case of Daniel Day-Lewis versus Alan Rickman. While Day-Lewis is widely regarded as a more talented actor, Rickman brought a unique charm and authenticity to his roles. In 'Die Hard,' Rickman's portrayal of Hans Gruber, a character described as teeming with "laughably cheesy" dialogue, was nothing short of iconic. Day-Lewis, despite his prowess, may not have brought the same spark or joy to the character of Hans Gruber.

The same principle holds true for actors auditioning for Star Wars roles. A script that is subpar or unworthy of a talented actor's abilities can lead to a lackluster performance. A talented guitarist cannot produce a stellar song with a rusty guitar, just as a talented actor cannot deliver a great performance with a poorly written script. In the case of 'The Force Awakens,' a sequel trilogy that began strong but deteriorated in quality, the scripts likely did not fully utilize Michael B. Jordan's range and potential.

Script Quality and the Mismanagement of the Sequel Trilogy

The Star Wars sequel trilogy, launched with 'The Force Awakens,' has seen a decline in quality over its run. While the first movie was a critical and commercial success, subsequent films have been met with mixed reviews. However, beyond the decline in quality, the treatment of minority characters like Finn and Rey has also come under scrutiny, especially in terms of their relevance and development.

The romantic relationship between Rey and Finn is a point of contention. Rey's interest in Kylo Ren, a character known for his temper tantrums and genocidal tendencies, raises questions about the thematic and narrative coherence of the series. Are Disney and LucasFilm truly promoting diversity and representation when minority characters like Finn and Rose are relegated to supporting roles, with goals that are closely tied to the narratives of their superior characters?

The point is, the quality of the script and the material an actor is given play a crucial role in their performance. A talented actor needs a well-crafted script to bring out the best in them. Therefore, while Michael B. Jordan is a highly talented actor, the subpar scripts in the later Star Wars sequels likely hampered his ability to deliver a standout performance.

The Future of Star Wars Casting

The lessons from the Star Wars casting decisions and the quality of the scripts used in recent productions suggest that transparency and a focus on providing excellent material for actors should be prioritized. A more transparent casting process could help ensure that the best talent is considered for each role, and scripts should be written to challenge and enhance the abilities of the actors.

In conclusion, the quality of the script is paramount in casting decisions. For talents like Michael B. Jordan, a strong script can elevate their performance and bring the character to life in a way that resonates with audiences. The sequencing of the Star Wars trilogy serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of offering actors compelling and well-written material to work with.