It seems like a very long time since I last read anything to do with the "apparently" upcoming Mortal Instruments films. In fact, the last time I heard anything was back in March with the announcement of Harald Zwart as Director. News of this film appears to be coming in so slowly I'm amazed that the people who are already tied to it haven't walked away out of sheer boredom. How long do you stay hypothetically attached to a film before you kind of wonder what you're doing, and if it's worth the hassle?
I've made no secret that I have huge doubts over the casting of the two main stars for this film, and I really was about to give up all hope but then Cassandra Clare took to her Tumblr to announce the casting of Simon. And I have to say that my attention has been piqued. Yes Cassandra Clare, you have renewed my interest in your film. I'm paying attention. You've done well. The choice for Simon is our very own English Muffin: Robert Sheehan!
If you're not sure where you've seen Sheehan before, or if you honestly have no clue, he featured in E4 drama series Misfits (in which he played the cocky, arrogant but wildly funny Nathan), he also starred opposite Harry Potter star Rupert Grint in 2009 film Cherrybomb. as well as the Red Riding TV series.
When I initially read about Sheehan playing Simon, I was kinda like "hmm, really"?? But as I've had time to digest it (okay, it took a whole ten seconds), I've fallen in love with the idea. Sheehan is an amazing actor, who I adored in Misfits (Misfits really was not the same when he left), and although Nathan is the polar opposite to Simon (in fact Mortal Instruments Simon is a great deal like Misfits' Simon which is a tad ironic), I can see Sheehan pulling this off incredibly well.
I think that they need to make sure that Sheehan looks young for the role of Simon, especially in his pre-Vampire period. I also think they need to play on the humourous personality that seems to come so naturally to him, and he could be a diamond of a character.
With the disappointment that has been the casting of Jace, I have a strong feeling that Simon will grow into an incredibly popular character in so many ways.
On a seperate note, I wonder if it is a coincedence that all three main actors (Lily Collins, Jamie Campbell Bower and now Robert Sheehan) have British roots. Interesting yes, relevant probably not ;)
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