Let's dreamcast a live-action adaptation of The Silmarillion
12. Sauron - Charles Dance
First off, Charles Dance is incredible. He plays characters with a commanding presence, which is necessary for the role of Sauron, a fallen demi-god and Morgoth's number two man during the events of The Silmarillion. That's right: Sauron, who would one day become the dark lord of Middle-earth, was once just a lackey to someone far more powerful than him.
Dance's portrayal of Westeros' Father of the Year Tywin Lannister in Game of Thrones established him as someone who could powerful, manipulative, and intimidating figures. Unless you've been living under the mines of Moria, you know that Sauron isn't just a regular villain. He's evil. He's cunning, charismatic, and terrifyingly intelligent. Dance's performance as Tywin showcased his ability to deliver lines with a chilling calmness and a piercing gaze that could make anyone shiver. Imagine that same cold, calculating demeanor applied to Sauron, a character who manipulates and deceives entire nations. Another example is Dance's portrayal of the twisted mastermind in Underworld: Awakening.
Then there's Dance's incredible ability to express a character's internal conflicts. Sauron isn't just evil for the sake of being evil; he's a fallen Maia -- a lower class of divine being benearth the Valar -- with many layers. In The Imitation Game, Dance played Commander Denniston, a character who, while antagonistic, had dimension and depth. His ability to portray characters with an internal battle, transitioning seamlessly between cold authority and subtle vulnerability, is perfect for Sauron.
Who else would you like to see in a live-action adaptation of this epic tale? Who would you rather not see?
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