The announcement of a Helldivers film adaptation by PlayStation Productions and Arrowhead Studios has ignited excitement, especially with the resurgence of the franchise’s popularity thanks to Helldivers 2. Given the potential for this film to become a major hit, it’s likely to attract some significant Hollywood talent. Since the Helldivers narrative is largely open-ended, focusing more on world-building and general themes, the film could feature an ensemble cast similar to the 2024 Borderlands adaptation. Considering the game’s blend of over-the-top action, dark humor, and frequent character deaths, the film could resemble something akin to The Suicide Squad. With that in mind, here are seven actors we believe would be ideal for bringing the world of Helldivers to the big screen.
Chris Evans: From Captain America to Democratic Crusader
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Chris Evans, known for his iconic portrayal of Captain America, could bring a unique blend of heroism and comedic timing to the Helldivers universe. While he’s already proven his action chops in the MCU, his comedic performances in films like Knives Out and Scott Pilgrim vs. The World demonstrate his versatility. Evans could embody a character similar to Captain America, exuding confidence and rationalism, or perhaps explore a more darkly comedic route, reminiscent of Peacemaker.
Craig Lee Thomas: The Face of Democracy Deserves a Place
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It’s hard to imagine a Helldivers film without Craig Lee Thomas, the franchise’s spokesperson. His dedication to the series, appearing in full armor at events like The Game Awards, speaks volumes. Beyond his promotional work, Thomas is a rising voice acting talent, with credits including Dynasty Warriors: Origins, Octopath Traveler II, SMITE, and Honkai: Star Rail. His on-screen experience includes roles in Jane the Virgin, Dollface, and Nobody Wants This. The Helldivers film presents a perfect opportunity for him to transition to a larger acting role within a franchise he’s helped popularize.
David Harbour: The Muscle and Leadership of a Helldiver
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David Harbour, renowned for his role as Jim Hopper in Stranger Things, possesses the gravitas and physical presence to portray a commanding Helldiver. His experience in action-heavy roles, including Red Guardian in the MCU and Hellboy, makes him an ideal candidate to lead a squad against alien hordes. With the conclusion of Stranger Things, Harbour’s schedule allows for potential involvement in this exciting project.
Lil Rel Howery: Bringing Relatability and Humor to the Front Lines
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While relatively new to the industry, Lil Rel Howery has quickly made a name for himself in comedic roles, appearing in films like Get Out, Free Guy, and Vacation Friends. His comedic timing and relatable personality would make him a perfect fit for a Helldiver, providing a grounding presence amidst the chaotic action. His ability to balance comedy and drama would also allow him to portray a more nuanced character, capable of handling both humorous and serious moments.
Michelle Rodriguez: A Grizzled Veteran Ready for Action
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Michelle Rodriguez, known for her tough-as-nails roles in the Fast and Furious franchise and other action films like Avatar and Battle: Los Angeles, would be a perfect addition to the Helldivers cast. Her distinctive voice and experience in genre films make her a compelling choice for a battle-hardened soldier or a commanding officer. Her passion for video games, including franchises like Halo and Assassin’s Creed, further solidifies her suitability for this adaptation.
Natasha Rothwell: A Rising Star Ready to Embrace Action
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Natasha Rothwell, known for her comedic and dramatic performances in The White Lotus, Insecure, and the Sonic the Hedgehog films, is a rising star with the potential to shine in a Helldivers role. While she hasn’t tackled many action roles, her on-screen presence and versatility would make her a compelling choice for a captain-type character or an ambitious rookie.
Will Arnett: A Distinctive Voice for a Masked Hero
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Will Arnett’s distinctive voice and comedic timing would be invaluable in a film where characters are often masked. Known for his roles in Arrested Development and Bojack Horseman, Arnett could portray a seasoned veteran or a cocky squad leader, bringing his signature humor to the role. His experience in video game adaptations, including Tiny Tina’s Wonderland and Twisted Metal, makes him a natural fit for the Helldivers universe.
These are just a few of the many actors who could bring the world of Helldivers to life on the big screen. With the right cast and creative team, the Helldivers film adaptation has the potential to be a thrilling and hilarious action-packed experience.
