Willem Dafoe Inhabits ‘Mars’

Published by Jeff Leins on: July 16th, 2009

Willem Dafoe is joining Disney’s John Carter of Mars alongside Taylor Kitsch and Lynn Collins.  Andrew Stanton of Finding Nemo and Wall-E fame is directing in his first live-action feature for the studio.

The film is an adaptation of a book from the 11-novel series by Edgar Rice Burroughs, specifically “A Princess of Mars.”  It centers on Civil War veteran (Kitsch) who seemingly dies and is transported to another physical body on the planet Mars.  Because of the gravity difference, John Carter is stronger than the natives, a race of 12-foot tall, green barbarians.  He’s imprisoned by the creatures until he escapes and meets Dejah Thoris, Princess of Helium (Collins).

Dafoe will play Tars Tarkas, one of the fierce green Martian warriors, who’s unusual among his race for his ability to love.  Tarkas believes the only way for the Tharks to survive is to turn away from war.  He will likely appear in any sequels should the movie be a success.

Could this movie sound any cheesier?  A strong man battling barbarians on Mars to win a princess?  A 12-foot sentimental warrior named Tars Tarkas?  What’s next, Disney?  Tars Tarkas is busy palling around with his best friends Mars Marcus and Lars Larkiss before putting a random Confederate soldier behind bars barcuss.