The long-awaited film adaptation of James O'Barr's independent comic book series releases June 7. New photos of Skarsgård as tattooed Eric Draven have drawn criticism and comparisons to Jared Leto's Joker in Suicide Squad (2016).
Davis agreed with internet criticism of Skarsgård's portrayal of Eric Draven, saying “Yuck” (TMZ). Davis found the character's “dingy, dirty, grungy” look offensive and suggested the filmmakers employ someone like Lee out of respect for the late actor.
It would have been wiser to cast someone other than a heterosexual, white male, she says. Numerous contenders were considered for the role of Eric Draven in The Crow reboot before Skarsgård was chosen.
Fans of the original movie have struggled to accept a reboot and a new Eric Draven for decades, with Jason Momoa, Tom Hiddleston, Bradley Cooper, and even Bill's older brother Alexander as prospective casts.
While Skarsgård's "grungy" portrayal of Eric Draven may have startled some, it closely follows the character's original source. O'Barr drew inspiration from Iggy Pop for his comic book character, which shares Skarsgård's untidy appearance and slender physique.
Although Iggy Pop does not have tattoos like Eric Draven, Skarsgård's portrayal of the role completely embraces the character's punk rock roots.
If the movie's makers had followed Davis' advice and chosen a Lee lookalike, it would have been criticized as an imitation of the original. With The Crow in cinemas, Skarsgård's acting may be able to convince the reboot's skeptics.