The Filming of the Epic of Gilgamesh To undertake a project of this epic scale, one must first consider the many different ways in which the film could take hold. The Epic of Gilgamesh is a very ancient story whose main attractions will be its originality and antiquity. To profit from Gilgamesh we must focus on bringing out the idea that Gilgamesh predates similar stories, casting actors who capture the characters' mannerisms while being relatable, and using optimal special effects to combat preconceived notions an audience might have. they have films like this (thanks to the likes of Kevin Sorbo and Steve Reeves). Mainly the idea is to keep Gilgamesh pure. Of course, after seeing my Hamlet, viewers will have an idea of what to expect from the introduction of a pre-classical play into mainstream cinema. Both viewers and critics will likely expect an update, or a real shift in the sequence of events in time. However, while we certainly cannot follow the text line by line, we must keep Gilgamesh faithful to the original tablets and as close to the Sumerian dress, language, and culture as possible. To preserve the narrative style of the epic's author(s), I plan to employ a narrator to guide the action. A recognizable, intelligent, regal and yet not overbearing voice should be chosen. This entry should give weight to the narrative without being so compelling that the action is lost. I intend to seek out Englishmen such as Patrick Stewart, Sir Ian Mckellan, Sir Anthony Hopkins and John Geilgud and offer them the opportunity to audition for this essential role. The selected actor's voice will begin and end the film, covering breaks in the action and explaining confusing sections of the story. Casting the actors who actually block is a little more problematic. Gilgamesh himself is the most challenging character to play in this work. Gilgamesh should be strong (without evoking images of Kull the Conqueror or Conan the Barbarian) and young, but with an aged appearance to imply warrior traits. The actor must present the narcissistic nihilism of the first Gilgamesh and, later, show the more humble, post-anagnorosis Gilgamesh. For this range of extravagant egotism, of thoughtful and driven strength, we should rely on the talent of Mel Gibson. Gibson offers a full range of acting skills while appearing aged and charming at the same time.
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