Benicio Del Toro Cast in Guardians of the Galaxy

In the third round of casting news for Guardians of the Galaxy, it has been confirmed that Benicio Del Toro (Snatch, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas) has joined the Phase 2 Marvel film in an unspecified role. Although the specifics on his character are currently unknown, it is reported he has been cast in a role that will play a larger part in the Marvel cinematic universe, meaning a multi-picture deal will be struck with the actor.

Theories from fans around the internet have already cast him as Thanos, which would not be a stretch. I say this due to his make-up and cg experiences in such films as Sin City, another comic book adaptation, and the remake of The Wolfman. As a serious faced character with deep lines and a grizzled feel, putting purple makeup on him and making him the Mad Titan is a thought.

However, I did not immediately think villain. Since the casting of Glenn Close as a Nova Corps leader, we’re going to need to see some Nova Corps members, most notably Richard Rider as Earth’s Nova. Being a member of an older incarnation of the Guardians and through interactions with the Avengers on Earth, I could see an older, rougher version of Nova who is battle weary and appears in later Marvel films as a cosmic hero. The deal to appear in later Marvel films might mean we get to see a Nova film later that focuses on the Corps and the training of a younger replacement, much in the vain of Men In Black but in Space!

Despite the theories either way, Benicio Del Toro is a great addition to a cast that is shaping up to be the most diverse group yet. Here’s to the Rocket Racoon!