I'm not sure what I think of Crowe at this point (edit: the details, I mean), I'd have to rewatch. I personally think Hemsworth is looks best in gladiator mode (very short dark hair, beard), so if you put a long yellow wig on him, his attractiveness immediately drops by about a third to me. => but too attractive is going to be a problem generally for this, and his physical presence and ability to manage both goofy and intense I just think are perfect.

I am completely incapable of thinking of a Killick or a Bonden! character actors all the way, the kind that are "you know, that guy . . . "