And you thought X-MEN: FIRST CLASS’ casting craziness could’ve have concluded! The movie’s already started shooting, but the crew’s added another name to the staggering list of mutants who will appear - - Riptide. Slash Film’s saying he’s going to be played by Alex Gonzalez, a Spanish actor who’s only English language role so far was in that Harvey Milk biopic that Sean Penn won an Oscar for. As for Riptide? If you haven’t been keeping on your henchmen, Riptide was a founding member of Mr. Sinister’s first gang of cronies, the Marauders. He’s got top-spinning powers similar to the Cyclone with the added threat of shuriken and gross-sounding “calcified masses” he flings at high velocities while mid-flight.
I don’t think that Riptide’s appearance in the movie is a sign that Sinister will show up, per se - - there’s really no reason for the third and fourth stringer mutants to appear with any strict links to their comics counterparts outside of their powers. Remember how Spike and Phat showed up in THE LAST STAND? == TEASER ==
Then again, they still haven’t specified who Oliver Platt’s mysterious “Man in Black” is going to be. While I’m stone cold certain that you’re never going to see the guy in white make-up, black lipstick and a showy black outfit… I could easily envision him being a heavily-modified version of Nathaniel Essex. Considering how this is about the mutants’ formative years and that’s Sinister’s prime area of concern, it’d certainly make sense for him to be involved.
Anyway, I’ve never heard of Gonzalez before this. I don’t think even the most die hard fans have a lot invested in a character like Riptide, either, so I’m sure his portrayal won’t conflict with too many people's expectations. I’d almost wish that they’d pulled from the Nasty Boys’ roster instead of the Marauders, as they’re a bit more colorful when it comes to Sinister’s goons. Gorgeous George, anyone?
Tom Pinchuk’s the writer of HYBRID BASTARDS! & UNIMAGINABLE .Order them on Amazon here & here .