HOLLYWOOD--Representatives for actor VIN DIESEL have confirmed that he has agreed to star in the lead role of Universal Pictures upcoming drama-comedy tentatively titled THE KING OF COMEDY: THE LIFE AND TIMES OF ONE NEIL T. REYNOLDS.
The much-hyped film borrows its name from Martin Scorcese's 1983 film about a struggling stand-up comic, played by Robert De Niro who attempts to jump-start his career by kidnapping a late-night TV host, played by Jerry Lewis. THE LIFE AND TIMES OF ONE NEIL T. REYNOLDS, however, follows the early life and adolescence of a rural Pennsylvania man, his simultaneous attempts to take over the worlds of sports, academia, music and comedy, and the adventures of his close-knit and occasionally hilarious family.
Diesel, now 41, may face his toughest on-screen challenge in his portrayal of the mercurial Reynolds. Insider circles are already buzzing that the role represents a critical high-water mark in his career and could even earn the Diesel an Oscar nomination. Reached for comment, Diesel, seemingly already in character, confirmed his attachment to the film and said only, "Just give me the dang award already. Seriously, just do it."
Diesel joins a cast which already comprises a virtual who's who of Tinseltown stars, including:
Bruce Willis as family patriarch "Reyn": an educator, firefighter, bingo caller, ball coach and jack-of-all-trades. Anthony Edwards (ER) and Gerald McRaney (Major Dad) had previously been linked to the role.
Julia Roberts as "Mom Reyn," the emotional center of the family.
A young Nicolas Cage as big brother "D Reyn," because hey, why not?
Ryan Gosling (The Notebook, Half Nelson) as the other big brother, "M Reyn or "Mike Reyn" because hey, that's a real nice beard.
Rachel McAdams (Wedding Crashers, The Notebook) as sister-in-law "Rach Reyn."
Robert Duvall as Bob: Grandpa, farmer, small-town politician and storyteller.
Billy Bob Thornton as "Plu": Cause just look at the guy.
Producers are currently in negotiations with a number of big-name and character actors to fill out the remainder of the cast. THE KING OF COMEDY is slated for a Christmas 2010 release.
I am laughing and laughing. Thanks for Julia Roberts. I do see the resemblance and I appreciate that you see our talents are almost comparable.
ReplyDeleteIt was really well cast. Now you can add producer and casting director to your own credits.
Finally.....a post worthy of your nickname. I'm quite impressed. It was worth the wait.
ReplyDeleter
I however am disappointed. Seriously, Vin Diesel. Come on man. Not only is he a terrible actor and could never, ever (ever) have the acting chops to play me, but he also isn't even that cool. We don't even look alike, aside from the bald head. A few suggestions: 1. Jason Statham, 2. Chris O'Donnell, or mother also once said that I look like McSteamy. See if the director can change this or this movie will never get to theatres. Other cast members are pretty much spot on, especially mother as Julia Roberts and Plu as Billy Bob (Metallica shirt, tats).
ReplyDeleteHow embarrassing. Your mother told me that Neil posted this, and I didn't notice otherwise. Very well done, Dave. You still have your sense of humor.
ReplyDeleter
I think Diesel will do a fine job portraying you, Neilsy. Any other suggestions? How about Bill Murray as Marty?
ReplyDeleteNeil- the diesel is spot on.
ReplyDeleteYou may 'look' like McSteamy but he isn't goonish enough for you. I read the the rock was considered, but his comedic timing was off during the audition.
And sorry Dave, Nick Cage would never accept a supporting role. He's too full of himself. Steve Buscemi for you. I'm sure Neil will back me up on that one.
Ed Harris for Randall if Bruce Willis doesn't pan out.
Ha, big negative on Buscemi, Mike. He just doesn't have the raw physicality and charisma to play such an individual as myself. Back me up, Neilsy.
ReplyDeleteLot of thought went into this post... I too was apprehensive about my boy Nic Cage: Leading man and action star that he is, he's not really known for his acting chops. However, the hair always speaks for itself.
http://www.latinoreview.com/news/celebrating-the-hairstyles-of-nicolas-cage-5254
Plus, when he heard he was going to play an award-winning international journalist in an NTR biopic, he agreed to work for scale.
Hey Neil, do you smell... what the Diesel... is COOKIN?