Quick Links
- Nathan Mitchell Wanted to Play The Deep
- Black Noir Finally Speaks and Shows His Face in The Boys Season 4
As a longtime fan of The Boys, I must say that Nathan Mitchell has truly outdone himself with his portrayal of Black Noir II in Season 4! It’s not every day we get to see an actor take on two characters within one series, and Mitchell has done it effortlessly.
In The Boys, Black Noir was the quietest yet formidable character who remained enigmatic for three seasons, rarely speaking to other characters. However, during Season 4, he reveals both his voice and identity beneath the mask – an unveiling that hardcore fans will appreciate due to its significance.
In the Amazon Prime Video series so far, actor Nathan Mitchell, who has portrayed his role consistently, is now receiving increased on-screen presence and lines. This was something he had expressed a desire for from the start, given that he initially auditioned for a different character.
Nathan Mitchell Wanted to Play The Deep
Black Noir is a multi-layered character who moves stealthily, bearing an intriguing mix of Spider-Man’s agility and Bruce Lee’s martial arts prowess. However, he isn’t particularly talkative; in fact, at first, he doesn’t speak a word. Surprisingly, it was reported by SlashFilm that the actor initially tried out for The Deep, the series’ take on Aquaman, who has more plots and dialogues. This role eventually went to Chase Crawford, a character known for being slippery, womanizing, and insecure. His insecurities stem from his gills and the feeling that his powers, which are mainly effective underwater, aren’t as impressive as those of the other characters.
Contrasting with other characters, Black Noir is pivotal, one of the select few whom Homelander (Antony Starr) trusted enough to confide in. Yet, he was essentially the strong, silent type they sent on underhanded tasks, lacking substantial dialogue or any dialogue for that matter throughout three seasons. However, Mitchell managed to breathe life into this character without uttering a single word or revealing his face. It’s worth noting that Fritzy-Klevans Destine portrayed the unmasked younger version of Black Noir during the origin flashback storyline in Season 3.
In the Netflix series “Ginny & Georgia,” Mitchell skillfully portrayed Black Noir’s blend of intimidating abilities and playful character through subtle gestures and body language. For instance, a slight head tilt and shaking a toy for a child in one scene revealed his gentler side. Yet, his fierce battles with characters like Kimiko (Karen Fukuhara) demonstrated that he was not to be underestimated.
In that unique episode reminiscent of Roger Rabbit, Mitchell delved into Black Noir’s personal struggles, which included a period where he concealed himself in an abandoned restaurant for children. Haunted by the knowledge of his betrayal towards Homelander, Black Noir sought solace in visions of animated companions that guided him through his feelings of remorse and embarrassment. These visions also helped him confront the ghosts of the past, specifically the cruel treatment he endured at the hands of Soldier Boy, a character portrayed by Jensen Ackles, many years ago.
Erik Kripke, the showrunner, shared with Variety that Black Noir might have been observing those cartoon characters all along, but this is the first time we, as viewers, get to see them too. This new layer of intricacy in the character was likely not something Mitchell had envisioned he’d delve into.
Black Noir Finally Speaks and Shows His Face in The Boys Season 4
In the third season, it’s common knowledge among fans that Homelander, enraged, brutally murdered his friend Black Noir in a gruesome manner, revealing his true feelings of betrayal. This betrayal stemmed from Black Noir’s knowledge about Homelander’s origin, which he kept hidden, and the revelation that Soldier Boy was still alive. Given these circumstances, it seemed reasonable for fans to assume that Black Noir would not reappear in Season 4.
When Season 4 kicked off, I, as a fan, was thrilled to see Mitchell back as Black Noir. Yet, it wasn’t the same Black Noir we knew before. Instead, it turned out he’s portraying an entirely different character! This new Black Noir is actually an imposter, another superhero brought in to maintain the facade that the real Black Noir had perished, keeping the public in the dark about his true fate.
As a cinephile, I’ve got to say, the new Black Noir II character is quite chatty! He just can’t seem to stop talking, which is causing quite a stir among the group since we all know that Black Noir isn’t supposed to speak. It’s like he’s forgotten that rule entirely! His upbeat and jovial demeanor is a stark contrast to the serious Black Noir portrayed in earlier seasons.
Given his performance as Black Noir 2.0, it appears that Mitchell was perfectly suited for the role of The Deep. Although it wasn’t until four seasons had passed that he got a chance to display his comedic side, and even then, it required more screen time. However, with the increased exposure, Mitchell now has the chance to portray this unique version of his character, which, incidentally, was his second choice.
Essentially, Mitchell skillfully portrays two roles concurrently. Intriguingly, the deepening bond between him and ‘The Deep’ is becoming a significant aspect of the plot. Given that Black Noir II is more approachable and forthcoming, he serves as the friend ‘The Deep’ has longed for. Furthermore, this new version of Noir shares many traits with ‘The Deep’, such as cowardice, ineptitude, clumsiness, and a fraternity-like demeanor.
It proves Mitchell was right for that role all along, even if he didn’t get it. But he’s also perfect for this one, and his chemistry with Crawford makes fans happy the casting choices were made as they were. Stream The Boys on Prime Video.
Read More
Sorry. No data so far.
2024-09-22 01:31