The new Superman movie Man of Steel is already earning rave reviews, despite the fact that it is not due to hit the big screen for a few more months. In the movie, we will see Michael Shannon taking on the role as General Zod, a role made famous by Terrence Stamp, and Michael has stated that Zod is not a villain in Man of Steel.
Michael Shannon as Zod in Man of Steel
Shannon was talking to Total Film, when he explained, "He's not a villain. He's not a villain any more than any other General fighting to protect his people. He doesn't like to just hurt people and steal diamonds; he's focused on being successful at his job."
Michael also admitted that he did not look to past performances of Zod for inspiration, "I think the way Terrence Stamp approached it - and this isn't any kind if criticism of his performance - there was something kind of detached about it. Pure, hatred, rage, whatever... I think this [characterisation] is more ambiguous," he added.
Michael Shannon in Zod costume
As well as starring Michael Shannon as General Zod, Man of Steel also stars Henry Cavill as Clark Kent aka Superman, Amy Adams as Lois Lane and Russell Crowe as Jor-El. Man of Steel is directed by Zack Snyder, based on the screenplay by David S. Goyer and is set to be released in both the US and the UK on June 14.
Man of Steel movie trailer
