Entertainment
‘God of War’s Kratos Actor Calls Out Prime Video Adaptation: “What Are You Thinking?”
Fans have high expectations for Prime Video’s most anticipated fantasy video game adaptation, yet it continues to draw criticism. As you may recall, Amazon officially announced God of War on December 14, 2022, after initial reports of negotiations emerged in early March. The adaptation will center on two Norse mythology-based games: 2018’s God of War and its 2022 sequel, God of War Ragnarök, bringing the compelling, character-driven franchise to small screens for the first time.
Four years later, when the casting decisions were announced, longtime fans immediately expressed disapproval, despite some initial support for Ryan Hurst as Kratos. Then the first-look images arrived, bringing even more criticism and gradually diminishing fans’ hope for Prime Video’s vision. Hurst has since left the project after an on-set injury in late June, prompting production to pause untilKratos can be recast. In the meantime, Dave Bautista is being considered for the role, and it has so far been met with some approval.
Still, the fantasy adaptation faces new criticism, this time from Christopher Judge, who voices Kratos in the games. Judge expressed concerns about studios developing video game adaptations without involving original video game team members. He mentioned this at FanExpo, specifically calling out Amazon and God of War. Now taking to X (formerly Twitter), the actor further explained his stance after a user commented on his age and suitability to play Kratos.
“I do know. As my kids tell me, I’m old as balls. I truly hope they find someone as great as Ryan. I was talking more about our writers and devs. I really want them to get the love and respect they deserve. I hope that for all writers and developers of the games that we love. No disrespect to TV and film writers. I had some of the best on Stargate.”
‘God of War’ Icon Has a Problem With Prime Video’s Adaptation
Speaking about his statement at FanExpo, Judge noted that although God of War veteran Cory Barlog is an executive producer on Prime Video’s series, none of the game’s writers helped develop the script. “When Amazon was finally approved and announced, and they didn’t hire any of the God of War writers… what are you thinking?” he said. “These guys have been immersed in this world for 20 years. But someone’s going to know better?”
Additionally, during a panel at Fan Expo Boston moderated by Collider’s Steve Weintraub, he applauded Sony’s Santa Monica for truly respecting franchise fans. Santa Monica, renowned for creating the God of War series, is considered by Judge to be one of the few studios particularly open to player feedback. “They actually respect the fans,” he stated. “Like, it’s not that hard of a thing to do. You ask people to pay for your product, or people invite you into their homes. The least you can do is respect what they have to say.”
Stay tuned to Collider for future updates about Prime Video’s God of War.
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