If you’re one of those people anxious to see “Firefly’s” Alan Tudyk kill some zombies for some yuk-yuks, then you’re out of luck. (Hey, that rhymes!) First Earth Films has announced that “The Pacific’s” Scott Gibson has replaced Alan Tudyk as the lead in their upcoming zombie-comedy “First Platoon”.
Scott Gibson, critically acclaimed as ‘Ack Ack Haldane’ in the Spielberg/Hanks epic The Pacific, will be taking over the role of ‘Rock Brannigan’ in the Chris Gabriel zombie comedy First Platoon, set for release in 2011.
Gibson, a well-respected actor whose previous credits include Lucky Number Slevin as well as small parts in a number of other films (including a bit in George Romero’s zombie film Diary of the Dead), starred recently as Capt. Andrew Haldane in three episodes of the Steven Spielberg – Tom Hanks project The Pacific to excellent critical reviews. Canadian born Gibson has worked steadily in both television and film, and made a strong positive impression on writer/director Chris Gabriel during the re-casting process. Joining him in the cast are Malcolm McDowell, Sid Haig, Dale Dye, John Kassir, Arron Shiver and newcomer Jennifer Skyler.
Rock Brannigan, leader of a motley team of zombie fighters in the post-apocalyptic desert southwest, was originally cast with Alan Tudyk. Gibson brings a surprising comedic bent along with solid acting chops, and meshes well with the ensemble cast.
The “First Platoon” gets its marching orders Summer 2011.
