'Suicide Squad' casting update: Joel Edgerton and Jon Bernthal up next for role of Rick Flag

Cover to New Suicide Squad #1. Art by Jeremy Roberts. [Wikipedia]

There's so much excitement revolving around the movie "Suicide Squad." It isn't just the story or plot that is causing the stir, the A-list cast is also one to watch out for.

The Suicide Squad is actually an anti-hero group composed of criminals. They are formed to take on suicide black-op missions for the government in exchange for reduced prison time. These villains aren't tracked down by the heroes unless they commit another crime. 

So far, the confirmed stars who will be joining "Suicide Squad" includes Will Smith as Deadshot, Jared Leto as Joker, Margot Robbie as Harley Quinn, Jay Courtney as Boomerang and Cara Delevingne as Enchantress. However, the role of Rick Flag is still up for grabs. 

Actually, Tom Hardy was already confirmed to play Rick Flag but he opted to leave the movie. Jake Gyllenhaal was the next star to be considered for the role. However, the 34-year old actor also turned it down, reports Variety

So, who is next on the list to play the role? According to Cinema Blend, it could be Joel Edgerton or Jon Bernthal. Edgerton has made quite a name for himself for his roles in "Exodus," "Zero Dark Thirty" and "Warrior." On the other hand, Bernthal had already worked with director David Ayer in "Fury" so that could be a reason to get him on board. 

It is a question of why Hardy and Gyllenhaal stayed away from the role. Could it be that Rick Flag isn't the main star in "Suicide Squad" compared to Smith's, Leto's and Robbie's characters? 

Furthermore, there was a rumor that Gary Sinise will be playing either Deathstroke or General Eiling. It could be the latter because Joe Manganiello is also up for the role of Deathstroke. 

"Suicide Squad" will hit theaters on Aug. 6, 2016. It is said that Jesse Eisenberg's Lex Luthor and Ben Affleck's Batman will make cameo appearances in the movie.

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