Millar was unhappy with the first draft of the screenplay, considering the approach to be "too tame" and "a little bit Americanized" given he wanted "basically be the opposite of the Spider-Man movie, the idea of someone getting powers and realizing they can do what they want, then choosing the dark path." The author only started to support the direction the project was taking once Bekmambetov "came in with his Eastern European madness" and the intention of coming closer to the spirit of the book.[9] Bekmambetov said that he would take liberty in adapting the comic book's world: "It's difficult for me to just follow. It's interesting for me to create. I feel a little bit different how this world has to be executed."[8] In July 2006, screenwriter Chris Morgan was hired to revise the third act of Haas and Brandt's script.[10]Haas and Brandt returned to refine the character of Wesley Gibson, which they had established in their first draft.[11]
Millar saw previsualized footage of the film and said that it exceeded his expectations for the adaptation.[12] He described its first half as being close to the source comic, and added the ending was similar though it was relocated elsewhere from the comic's original setting. The superhero costumes in the series were also removed, with the exception of the leather attire worn by Wesley and Fox. Incidentally, this had been Millar's intent when writing the miniseries, but he and artist J. G. Jones had forgotten to. Millar said, "I wanted them to have those powers and then just wear those costumes for the initiation, but just for one panel. And then I forgot." Millar also stated that he would have liked to keep the supervillain mythos that dictates the original comic in the film.[9] Millar was favorable to most of the changes in the storyline,[13] which includes the story arc of the Fates issuing death orders in line with the series' original theme of predestination.[14]
James McAvoy, who had screen-tested for the role early in 2006, was initially rejected because the studio was seeking an actor with conventional Hollywood leading man looks and physique. McAvoy was later recalled, being considered to be the "runt of the litter" among those who tested. According to McAvoy, "They [ultimately] wanted someone geeky."[15]McAvoy was cast in the role in October 2006.[16]The Scottish actor, who portrays an American in the film, worked out to improve his physique for the film's action scenes,[17] and suffered several injuries during shooting which included a twisted ankle and an injured knee.[18]
Common became interested in the role of Gunsmith due to both the script and the prospect of working with McAvoy, Jolie, and Morgan Freeman.[23] Common learned a great deal about firearms as preparation for the role, but said he is not a strong supporter of guns in real life.[23][24] Konstantin Khabensky, who starred in Bekmambetov's Night Watch, was cast so that the director would have a familiar face around.[25] British television veteran Marc Warren agreed to work in the film because he always wanted to be in a Hollywood blockbuster.[26] Thomas Kretschmann originally intended to pick up the comic series after being cast, but Bekmambetov convinced him not to. Kretschmann said that he undertook "excessive gun training" to "make sure I look good and I look like I know what I'm doing".[27] Kristen Hager originally auditioned for Fox, but accepted the role of Cathy, considering it "fun to play".[28]
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