Steven Spielberg's 'Ready Player One' Casting Begins

Casting has indeed begun on Steven Spielberg's adaptation of Ernest Cline's novel, Ready Player One, for Warner Bros...and we might not be getting our lead character first.

Word is that Spielberg will best testing actresses Elle Fanning, Olivia Cooke and Lola Kirke for the role of Art3mis, the avatar of Samantha Cook (which just got spoiled for me because I'm currently reading the book). The avatar exists in the virtual universe of OASIS which is the centerpiece for the sci-fi story. Two other young actresses are believed to be up for the role as well but their names remain a mystery.

Apparently, the casting director is trying to narrow down the field for Spielberg so he can move quickly on a decision as he's finishing up work on his upcoming Bridge of Spies and The BFG.

On top of all this, there is also chatter that Nick Robinson from Jurassic World (he played the older brother) is someone being looked at for the lead character of Wade Watts, the story's protagonist, whose avatar goes by the name of Parzival.

Other than that, no other actors are named.

So what do I think of all this? Well, I like Elle Fanning, who had such a breakout role in Super 8 (which Spielberg produced). I'm not familar with the other two actresses but I'm sure to be up for such a big role like this they must be tremendously talented like Fanning. As for Nick Robinson's potential for Wade Watts, I like it too, but I wonder who else that casting director has on their list.

Regardless, it looks like things are full steam ahead on Ready Player One, with production likely starting early to mid next year.

The film is set for release December 17th, 2017.

Source: The Wrap, Variety