Superman: Man Of Steel (2013): Shannon Reading Ulysses S. Grant Preparing For Zod

While promoting his new film, Machine Gun Preacher, Michael Shannon spoke on playing Zod in the upcoming Superman reboot, the Man Of Steel.

Shannon comments on working with director Zack Snyder, about fanboys expectations, and preparing for the role.

 “[Zack Snyder] makes it a lot of fun,” Shannon told the Toronto Sun. “He runs a real loose set no matter how much pressure he might be feeling because of the budget and the expectations … It’s a lot of pressure. People have a lot of expectations.”

And speaking of those expectations, Shannon continues with mention of the internet fanboys snapping pics of the set.

“The thing I’ve learned about the fanboys is that they don’t wait for you to be prepared for anything. They’re already in the bushes, snapping photos of us and putting them online and dissecting the whole thing. But I think that kind of enthusiasm is great. It’s better than nobody caring. You put all that work into something and everybody yawns or nobody bothers to come to the theatre — that would be a lot more difficult to deal with,” Shannon said.

Previously, Shannon commented on playing the role of Zod, who is in charge of the entire military of Krypton. Now, he continues on with the fact that he will be playing the Kryptonian General, and offers some info as to how he is preparing. Shannon seems to offer some clues to his Zod, as he seems to be saying that Zod will not be a “villain” in the classic sense of the word.

“I’m reading Ulysses S. Grant’s memoirs. I’m reading those, trying to see what it’s like to wake up everyday in those shoes,” he said.

“For me, (Zod) is a very complex character,” Shannon continues. “He doesn’t have horns coming out of his head; he’s not breathing fire. He’s a citizen of a different civilization. He’s from another planet. That’s a lot to wrap my head around. And he’s a general too. I’ve done a lot of military-themed work, but I’ve never been higher than a sergeant, so it’s quite a promotion.”

Stay tuned to Cosmic Book News as more on the Man Of Steel develops.

Man Of Steel flies into theaters June 14th, 2013 directed by Zack Snyder starring, Henry Cavill as the Man of Steel, Diane Lane as Martha “Ma” Kent, Kevin Costner as Jonathan “Pa” Kent, Amy Adams as Lois Lane, Michael Shannon as Zod, and Russel Crowe as Jor-El.

Be sure to check out the Cosmic Book News Superman Movie Hub for even more news and information.