Anghus Houvouras with some rampant speculation as to John Cleese’s possible role in the DC Extended Universe…
In the world of movie rumors there are stretches, and then there are gaps so wide that the collective elasticity of Plastic Man, Mister Fantastic, Elongated Man, Stretch Armstrong, and Ron Jeremy couldn’t traverse.
A series of Twitter followings has led some to believe that John Cleese may have a role in the DC Extended Universe movies. This is, of course, amazing news since John Cleese is amazing and dramatically improves almost any movie.
But which role? Who would John Cleese be playing in the DC Extended Universe. My mind began to process the possibilities like a clicking, whirring Mother Box. And then it hit me.
Is John Cleese playing Highfather?
We know that Zack Snyder’s Justice League will be featuring Darkseid’s Uncle Steppenwolf in the villain role setting up Darkseid as the ‘Big Bad’ of future DC movies. We know that at some point everyone’s favorite super heroes will be facing off against the demonic hordes of Apokolips. So it only makes sense that at some point we will also be introduced to some of the heroes of New Genesis.
For those of you who don’t know, New Genesis is the lighter, friendlier world that mirrors the hellish landscape of Apokolips where Darkseid rules. Highfather rules New Genesis and over the course of many stories has been everything from a thorn in Darkseid’s side to a victim of his destructive endeavors. The most interesting story involving the Highfather/Darkseid relationship involves them exchanging sons in a poorly thought out peace pact. These sons would eventually become Orion and Mister Miracle who play a rather large part in the epic Fourth World.
It would be easy to see any number of actors in the role of Highfather. Stalwart icons like Ian McKellen and Sean Connery immediately spring to mind. You might not immediately think of Cleese in the role, but once I started to contemplate the possibility it feels kind of perfect. The deep, gravelly, condescending tone. The air of British superiority.
Like a more serious Tim the Enchanterer. Instead of a murderous bunny, he warns the Justice League of impending doom from Kalibak or an army of parademons.
Yes, it’s a stretch. However, I’m all for this idea. John Cleese is a god damned global treasure and a welcome addition to the DC Extended Universe.
That is, if all this rampant speculation turns out to be true.
Which DC character do you think Cleese should play?
Anghus Houvouras
Originally published November 27, 2016. Updated April 16, 2018.
