Actor For Jack

[jimbow8]

Who is going to play Jack in the movie?


Sorry, I just had to do it!!! ;)

[admin]

Who is going to play Jack in the movie?


Sorry, I just had to do it!!! ;)
I heard it was going to be Danny Devito.... Just kidding :D

[Susan]

Who is going to play Jack in the movie?


Sorry, I just had to do it!!! ;)
Well, then I just HAVE to do this:

http://www.imdb.com/gallery/granitz/0424-sav/burnsed2.ard?path=pgallery&path_key=Burns,%20Edward%20(I)

[jimbow8]

I would have to agree with you there, Susanita. Either Burns or Edward Norton.

Have you seen She's the One (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0117628/), with Edward Burns and music by Tom Petty?

[Susan]

I would have to agree with you there, Susanita. Either Burns or Edward Norton.

Have you seen She's the One (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0117628/), with Edward Burns and music by Tom Petty?
No, I haven't. I'll have to rent that one.

Susanita

[jimbow8]

I love that movie. If you do rent it, let me know what you think.

[Biggles]

Who is going to play Jack in the movie?


Sorry, I just had to do it!!! ;)

Don't look now, but there's a contract out on you.

[Biggles]

Well, then I just HAVE to do this:

http://www.imdb.com/gallery/granitz/0424-sav/burnsed2.ard?path=pgallery&path_key=Burns,%20Edward%20(I)

I will agree that Edward Burns looks ordinary, as the Jack character must. In Gateways, the math tells us that Jack is 36, ergo the Jack character in the movie must be about 34-35. If RJ is to be a franchise, we realistically should have an actor about 30, who can play the role until he's 40, assuming that the movies would be at least 2 years apart. Burns seems to have the correct hair and eye color (?), but is his physique correct? Let's face it Susan; you want Edward Burns to play Jack for the same reason the younger girls would want Orlando Bloom; and I want Charlize to play Gia. Or am I wrong?

[Biggles]

Who is going to play Jack in the movie?


Sorry, I just had to do it!!! ;)

Chris O'Donnell will be 34 in June and is 5'11". He has dark hair and eyes. On the other board, I was half kidding when I mentioned him, but he fits the profile better than John Cusack (my favorite for the role). Cusack is about 38 already, and would be 40 by the time the movie was released, making him too old (perhaps) for more than one sequel.

[jimbow8]

I think you guys are putting way too much emphasis on physical attributes. Hair and eye color can be changed, as can physique by working out. Height doesn't really matter that much in my opinion unless you are going to have him stand next to a ruler. Hugh Jackman is 6'2" in real life and the comic character of Wolverine is only about 5'4" and that didn't ruin the movie.

[Biggles]

I think you guys are putting way too much emphasis on physical attributes. Hair and eye color can be changed, as can physique by working out. Height doesn't really matter that much in my opinion unless you are going to have him stand next to a ruler. Hugh Jackman is 6'2" in real life and the comic character of Wolverine is only about 5'4" and that didn't ruin the movie.

OK Jim! Well excuuuuse me if I'm getting too specific here. :-) I don't honestly see Edward Norton as Jack. He's played too many nut cases, and I don't want Jack to come across as a "gun nut", especially being one myself. Burns I could handle as far as appearance. I'm sure he could carry it off.

[Susan]

I will agree that Edward Burns looks ordinary, as the Jack character must. In Gateways, the math tells us that Jack is 36, ergo the Jack character in the movie must be about 34-35. If RJ is to be a franchise, we realistically should have an actor about 30, who can play the role until he's 40, assuming that the movies would be at least 2 years apart. Burns seems to have the correct hair and eye color (?), but is his physique correct? Let's face it Susan; you want Edward Burns to play Jack for the same reason the younger girls would want Orlando Bloom; and I want Charlize to play Gia. Or am I wrong?
While I admit that Ed Burns makes my temperature rise, that's not the only reason I think he'd be the perfect Jack. So once and for all, here are the reasons:


He's attractive, but not a pretty boy.
He's very male, but not overtly macho.
He's from Joisey and has the accent to match.
He's a terrific actor.
He's the right age-36. (Vicky is going to be a teenager in the movie, so he can't be much younger than that. As far as the aging in a franchise, men age well so I wouldn't worry about it)
Okay, I feel better now.

Susan

PS: Orlando Bloom isn't just for the younger girls ;)

[Biggles]

Points all well taken, your majesty.

[Biggles]

Paul:

Is the rumor that Viggo Mortensen signed to play Jack true? If so, my daughter is going to go crazy.

[Lisa]

Is the rumor that Viggo Mortensen signed to play Jack true?

No, but it's true that Viggo has signed on to be by next husband. We're going to live in a duplex with Susan and Legolas.

Lisa

[jimbow8]

Simon will be so upset.

[Susan]

No, but it's true that Viggo has signed on to be by next husband. We're going to live in a duplex with Susan and Legolas.

Lisa
Woo-hoo!!

Susanita (wondering if Berlitz can teach me to speak Elfan)

[Lisa]

Simon will be so upset.

Simon is willing to wait for the perfection that is Lisa Krause!

Lisa

[Biggles]

No, but it's true that Viggo has signed on to be by next husband. We're going to live in a duplex with Susan and Legolas.

Lisa

Then you had better have a spare bedroom for my daughter to move in with all of you.

[BK Akitas]

He's got a very young face, and an ability to just melt into different character modes- a must for anyone trying to be Jack. He's also got the physical ability to play the role. You look at him and you underestimate him from minute one- this guy can do some damage if he wants.
That's Jack.
I can even look past the hair-n-eyes thing for Cusack.

If we can't have Viggo or Hugh,then my vote is for John.

[Matthew Smith]

Martin Henderson's name has come up a few times when my wife and I have discussed the whole "who should play Jack" thing. He was the male lead in "the Ring". He might be a little young for the role (he strikes me as late 20's), but he has an interesting look and from an acting perspective, he could probably pull off both the charming side and the determined machine of retribution side of Jack.

--Matthew

[Susan]

He's got a very young face, and an ability to just melt into different character modes- a must for anyone trying to be Jack. He's also got the physical ability to play the role. You look at him and you underestimate him from minute one- this guy can do some damage if he wants.
That's Jack.
I can even look past the hair-n-eyes thing for Cusack.

If we can't have Viggo or Hugh,then my vote is for John.
I believe John Cusack is FPW's choice too.

I love Cusack, but he doesn't have that "hotness" factor I look for.

Susan

[Annice Burdeos]

He's got a very young face, and an ability to just melt into different character modes- a must for anyone trying to be Jack. He's also got the physical ability to play the role. You look at him and you underestimate him from minute one- this guy can do some damage if he wants.
That's Jack.
I can even look past the hair-n-eyes thing for Cusack.

If we can't have Viggo or Hugh,then my vote is for John.


Since the overwhelming number want Cusack as Jack, let me just say this

What other dynamics of the character will be altered? If its true that Vicki is going to be a teenager in this purported first film, how does that change
her relationship to Jack? Does that make Gia older as well? Do you cast a Mischa Barton or a Lindsay Lohan type as Vicki? For myself, I was thinking more of a Dakota Fanning for Vicki.

Given the fact that Cusack is already in his late 30's (Nearly 38, I believe) and to me, he looks exactly his age, how many of these films can he legitimately appear in before he's rendered too old for the character by Hollywood's standards ? Or do you foresee Jack evolving into a James Bond type with differing actors essaying the role every few years?

Or will he (Cusack) grow tired of being Jack forcing the studio to look for someone else say in the next installment?

If Viggo were to consider this (and based on his body of work, this certainly doesn't seem likely), he's already in his mid forties and might be a bit long in the tooth. Jackman is easily recognizable as Wolverine and Van Helsing but could easily meld into Jack. And at 35, he could conceivably essay Jack in two films given the general interim of 2 to 3 years per sequel, particularly if filming begins by late 2004 for a 2005 release.

Working at a local studio, I have a bit of insight as to how a studio might approach this. Does the actor have international box office clout? The international marketplace is quickly becoming the more accurate factor in determing if a studio will have a return on its investment. What is the budget to be assigned and will the actor ask for or seek profit participation? What is being sold here? A prepackaged concept? An actor whose name appears above title? Since this is a recurring literary character, is this to filmed as one long 4 to 5 hour film and then arbitarily sliced in 2 ala Kill Bill, or filmed back to back in the same manner as LOTR. What's its DVD prospects?
Is the Jack on the screen more of an action/adventure hero or more character driven with action secondary?

A few years ago, if Jack had been made, Johnny Depp would have been a good fit. If I were a casting director and had read the books (remember the casting director may not have a clue about who Jack is and is basing her/his choices on what is written in the actual screenplay), I would want either James Caviezel, or the little known Johnny Messner. I would also get the script to Depp to see if he might be interested.

Studios are always looking for a character that is easily spun off, thereby creating a franchise and a safe harbor for returning profits.

Just a thought

[BK Akitas]

I believe John Cusack is FPW's choice too.

I love Cusack, but he doesn't have that "hotness" factor I look for.

Susan

Jack is supposed to be invisible, not a stand out hottie. I've got lists and lists of hotties I'd love to see stripped down to the waist in a battle to the death...but none of them are Jack.
Cusack does it for me, and he does have box office value...Runaway Jury did a nice peice of business with him starring. He just strikes me as capable of the part on a subconcious level- I just KNOW he will be right, ya know?

[Ken Valentine]

Do not meddle in the affairs of Akitas, for you are crunchy and good with ketchup

Akitas like ketchup? :D

Ken V.

[Annice Burdeos]

Who is going to play Jack in the movie?


Sorry, I just had to do it!!! ;)


Generally, it seems John Cusack is the overwhelming favorite
with honorable mention going to Hugh Jackman or Viggo Mortensen

and since height doesn't seem to be an issue - For myself, working at a local studio, my preference would be the following;

Johnny Depp, Johnny Messner (an up and coming actor who fits Jack's description as written) or Jim Caviezel.


A friend of mine who is a film critic suggested Josh Hartnett because as she said he is bland e.g. easily malleable

Ryan Phillipe, any one?

[Annice Burdeos]

Jack is supposed to be invisible, not a stand out hottie. I've got lists and lists of hotties I'd love to see stripped down to the waist in a battle to the death...but none of them are Jack.
Cusack does it for me, and he does have box office value...Runaway Jury did a nice peice of business with him starring. He just strikes me as capable of the part on a subconcious level- I just KNOW he will be right, ya know?

Just so you know, Runaway Jury cost $60 million to produce (I'm not sure what Cusack's asking price is or what prints and ads cost) but it earned an
underwhelming $49 million in domestic box office. It only played in 2 international territories and grossed approximately a 1 million US dollars. Box office performance abroad is key to the releasing studio's ability to turn a profit. And if Cusack essays the role, will his salary be too steep for a studio's investment?

Jury opened to a dismal $11 million. In the film business, the opening weekend is paramount to a film's success. And if you are looking to spin off a character, a guy who has only one movie gross over $ 100 million during its domestic run, doesn't exactly sound like good business sense to me.

[nijimeijer]

My girlfriend and I discuss this often, and will cast the entire series of books from time to time. Yes, we're geeky about Jack.

Personally, I'd like to see someone like Tom Welling from Smallville play Jack. He's very plain, kind of slim, but muscular. He's a pretty good actor, in addition. A little young, maybe, but then, they'll obviously want to skew younger, especially if they want to franchise the character. There's a lot of others fit for the role, but he's my latest choice.

As for other characters, of course there's always Judd Hirsch as Abe, Arnold Vosloo or Gerard Butler as Kusum (Gerard Butler? you ask. Yes. Give him a beard, darken him a bit, and I think he could pull it off), and, surprisingly, I like Charisma Carpenter as Kolabhati. As for Gia? Well, I'm not so sure. But I like Raymond Cruz for Julio.

[Animagess]

[QUOTE=nijimeijer]
Personally, I'd like to see someone like Tom Welling from Smallville play Jack. He's very plain, kind of slim, but muscular. He's a pretty good actor, in addition. A little young, maybe, but then, they'll obviously want to skew younger, especially if they want to franchise the character. There's a lot of others fit for the role, but he's my latest choice.

QUOTE]

http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0919991/

Hmmm... A little swarthy compared to how I see Jack. But yeah, not far off the mark. Personally, after seeing Susan's link to Edward Burns, my vote is already in.

Cusack would be a decent choice, though it's been mentioned that Jack isn't supposed to stand out and Cusack is fairly recognizable. But now I'm just being nitpicky. Obviously avid RJ fans would see it as important, but since this is going to be a movie in an entirely different medium, the actor might need more presence. The other characters in the movie, as characters, might not notice him, but the audience- the viewers- would need a little more distinction.

Maybe it just doesn't matter to me since I wouldn't notice Tom Hanks in the street if he was doing a jig naked. Well, maybe that's an exaggeration, but you get the point.

[Biggles]

Generally, it seems John Cusack is the overwhelming favorite
with honorable mention going to Hugh Jackman or Viggo Mortensen

and since height doesn't seem to be an issue - For myself, working at a local studio, my preference would be the following;

Johnny Depp, Johnny Messner (an up and coming actor who fits Jack's description as written) or Jim Caviezel.


A friend of mine who is a film critic suggested Josh Hartnett because as she said he is bland e.g. easily malleable

Ryan Phillipe, any one?


Josh Hartnett does look really plain, but I have a hard time picturing him speaking "Jersey".

[jimbow8]

For me, Josh Hartnet will never shake the nickname given to him by Harry Knowles - Assface. Therefore, I can't picture him in the role.

[fpw]

Despite the fact that Val Kilmer's character in "Spartan" is simply a doer and not a planner (the government tells him, "We need this done" and he goes and does it) he has a lot Jack characteristics: loyal, lethal, and competent to the Nth.

FPW

[Tim Hatch]

Gallagher could do it... give the guy a wig, a moustache trim. He's obviously handy with large hammer-like weapons...? :p

[jimbow8]

Gallagher could do it... give the guy a wig, a moustache trim. He's obviously handy with large hammer-like weapons...? :p
I second that!

Jack: "In a tight place, no one else can help? Reach for the tool that is not a slicer, is not a dicer. What in the hell could it possibly be? SLEDGE-O-MATIC!!!!"

[stevenzung]

I think you guys are putting way too much emphasis on physical attributes. Hair and eye color can be changed, as can physique by working out. Height doesn't really matter that much in my opinion unless you are going to have him stand next to a ruler. Hugh Jackman is 6'2" in real life and the comic character of Wolverine is only about 5'4" and that didn't ruin the movie.

It's almost funny how true this is. Plenty of screen actors are actually nowhere near the height of their characters. I know one notable actor whose entire career seems to have him pegged perpetually around 5'8 or so. Would you believe the star of "Good Will Hunting," "The Bourne Identity," and "Ocean's Eleven", Matt Damon, is actually closer to 6'1"?

As for the main question of the thread, my vote is for Hugh Jackman. But one must consider the actor's shooting schedule. If an actor is over-committed already to other projects... I don't want to see "Repairman Jack" held up for a star actor, if a talented lesser-known or unknown can fit the bill. When "Repairman Jack" is a hit, I'd like to see the next one in production right away, rather than wait four more years for an opening in a busy actors' schedule. :)

[BK Akitas]

As for other characters, of course there's always Judd Hirsch as Abe, Arnold Vosloo or Gerard Butler as Kusum (Gerard Butler? you ask. Yes. Give him a beard, darken him a bit, and I think he could pull it off), and, surprisingly, I like Charisma Carpenter as Kolabhati. As for Gia? Well, I'm not so sure. But I like Raymond Cruz for Julio.

Charisma for 'Bati? Intersting choice, and I think it has possibilities. I mentioned on the old board that Oded Fehr might make a good Kusum.
Judd Hirsch in a lot of padding could pull off Abe- very close to his role in Independence Day, minus Parabellum droppings ;) I'm sorry though I can't give on a slim Abe- his physical appearance is key to the character.

Any chance of getting Peter Wingfield for the male Westphalen characters? I love catching him in parts from time to time- a very talented actor. He really needs a starring role but I'll settle for any air time (anyone seen the new series Touching Evil?).

I'm already fantasy casting sequels- I'll be watching something and say "that guy/chick would be perfect for..."... like Mitchell Ryan for Jack's dad (Lethal Weapon).

Having had the pleasure of working around a bunch of hollywood types there are some I can just see in these parts, and wish my opinion actually counted for something! :)

[Bushiboy]

I'd like to see a Repairman Jack cable series with original stories (with a more mundane, crime-story feel than the supernatural situations presented in the books) to be accentuated by movies based on the novels.
And Ed Burns is a little too pretty, Norton is a much better choice. And he has bigger acting-testicles.

[Peter]

I haven't seen him in anything recent but, if he hasn't changed too much of late I still think Kevin Bacon would be good for Jack, and John Goodman for Abe maybe? Also I have just re-read The Tomb and can really see Art Malik as Kusum. I will admit though I may be little behind in my film viewing and maybe all the above have, er, aged a bit too much?

[Peter]

Oh, and one more thing:-

With Hollywood as it is we will probably get Bruce Willis as Jack (actually, Bruce Willis 20 years ago would have been good). Also I must say (and apologies to FPW who is presumably sold on the idea) I don't have great hopes for the film. Except for Lord of the Rings (and a notable exception at that) I have never seen the film of a book I have loved and been other than dissapointed. Lets just hope....

[Twiznoy]

Does anyone watch Without a Trace. I think Eric Close would be perfect. He's not very well known, which is good.

Picture of him (http://www.imdb.com/gallery/ss/0289830/TAKEN_SCIFI_00017-lowres.jpg?path=pgallery&path_key=Close,%20Eric)

[jimbow8]

Does anyone watch Without a Trace. I think Eric Close would be perfect. He's not very well known, which is good.

Picture of him (http://www.imdb.com/gallery/ss/0289830/TAKEN_SCIFI_00017-lowres.jpg?path=pgallery&path_key=Close,%20Eric)
I could see that. He has a coiled-up, tense look to him.

Welcome to the board, Twiznoy.

[Ken Valentine]

I could see that. He has a coiled-up, tense look to him.

Welcome to the board, Twiznoy.

He's the right age, has the right physique, his hair line is low on his forehead . . . .

Just make his hair brown, (looks black in the photo) and give him brown contact lenses.

Good choice, eh Jim?

Echoing Jim, Welcome Twiznoy.

Ken V.

[Biggles]

He's the right age, has the right physique, his hair line is low on his forehead . . . .

Just make his hair brown, (looks black in the photo) and give him brown contact lenses.

Good choice, eh Jim?

Echoing Jim, Welcome Twiznoy.

Ken V.

I can see it too. His physique is consistent with being a track athlete, too. How about it, FPW?

[Scott Hajek]

Does anyone watch Without a Trace. I think Eric Close would be perfect. He's not very well known, which is good.

Picture of him (http://www.imdb.com/gallery/ss/0289830/TAKEN_SCIFI_00017-lowres.jpg?path=pgallery&path_key=Close,%20Eric)
He was pretty good in "Dark Skies" while that series lasted. (What a waste of an ending.) This series also had Jeri Ryan of ST:Voyager fame.

[The Mad American]

Hey all, first post here. BUt I just had to get into this discussion.

Someone in this string previously mentioned the new series "Touching Evil". I think the guy(sorry, don't know his name) who plays the main character would be an awesome Jack. The character on the show has some of the Jack attributes, he is kind of a smart aleck, he has that edge and seems to be about the right age.

Now I will search and see if I can find his name....

The characters name is Detective David Creegan and the actors name is Jeffrey Donavan. Here is a link to the show site but the photo doesn't do him justice. The best thing to do would be to check out the show and see him in action.

http://www.usanetwork.com/series/touchingevil/about/characters.html

[nijimeijer]

Did I mention Craig Bierko? I'm not sure, and I'm not checking four previous pages on a 56k connection of doom.

Craig Bierko.

He's too old, I'm sure, but I like him. He's probably also a bit too tall, but good casting negates that--look at Long Kiss Goodnight--the casting in that movie, of all tall stars, made him (and them) look normal.

[Matthew Smith]

Someone in this string previously mentioned the new series "Touching Evil". I think the guy(sorry, don't know his name) who plays the main character would be an awesome Jack. The character on the show has some of the Jack attributes, he is kind of a smart aleck, he has that edge and seems to be about the right age.


On a random note -- if you like the USA version, you should really check out the original British show. The first season was a mind-blowing experience for me. It was one of the most powerful crime stories I've ever seen on television. The other seasons were good, but the first was amazing. They've redone those first stories in the USA version and they were much better than the American version of "Coupling" (which really wasn't too difficult), but I still wish people would stop trying to remake British shows.

--Matthew

[Ken Valentine]

I still wish people would stop trying to remake British shows.

--Matthew

Immitation is:

1) The sincerest form of flattery.

2) An embarrassing admission of your own lack of imagination.

3) All of the above.

Ken V.

[The Mad American]

Well, Matthew Smith. I agree with you in that I too wish that the entertainment industry would stop with all the remakes of stuff. Not just British television but everything. I swear if Hollywood thinks that there is cash to be made from remaking another bad 1970s TV show into a movie..they need to be whacked upside the head with a two ton heavy thing.
They just need to look at the bombs and money vacuums that were "Charlies Angels2" and "Starsky and Hutch"...and horror of horror I have heard they are making a "Fantasy Island" movie.....kill me now.

I really dig the series Touching Evil and for some reason thought it was originally a series somewhere else but not Britain...I will definately look into finding some of the british series to watch.

But back to the point of the message, what about the guy from the US version for the part of Jack?

[jimbow8]

They are also making The Six Million Dollar Man starring Jim Carey. AARRGGHH!! Make it stop before someone gets hurt!!

[Sam]

I really dig the series Touching Evil and for some reason thought it was originally a series somewhere else but not Britain...I will definately look into finding some of the british series to watch.

But back to the point of the message, what about the guy from the US version for the part of Jack?


Agree with you Mad American. I've been taping it every Friday. The main reason I like it is that Donovan/Creegan makes me think of Jack. Sarcastic and playful, even childish at times, but with an underlying rage. Unwilling to kill but will if need be, especially if it gets personal. Not to mention he fits Jack's physical profile pretty well. Did the British version have the same actors as well??? Thought it was the same show.

[Matthew Smith]

But back to the point of the message, what about the guy from the US version for the part of Jack?

He seems a little young to me for Jack, but I really like his intensity. Under the surface, you can see that he's burning with rage. That's a hard thing to pull off and I think he does a good lob of it. As for his age -- he probably just seems young to me because of the way they costume him for the show. They dress him pretty young and keep his hair casually messy. Whatever his age is, it makes him look like he's in his late twenties.

--Matthew

[The Mad American]

But being young and relatively new to the acting biz( or least a relative unknown) it would be so much easier to get him to commit to a franchise and stick with it....that is if they do decide to franchise Jack.

A remake of the Six Million Dollar Man? Holy crap, I cannot beleive the junk that is coming out of.....wait, yes I can beleive the junk that is coming out of hollywood. Why should I be surprised that it is taking forever to get something as awesome as the Jack movie off the ground and yet every other week we get bombarded by some absolute, totally talent missing, no plot having, star vehicle for a star with no real star power, rehash of a piece of crap done a million times before, and failed a million times before, appeal to the MTV generation, worthless, forgot in a week Hollywodd blockbuster?

Maybe its just me...

[Mailedbypostman]

Who can say?

[jimbow8]

They are also making The Six Million Dollar Man starring Jim Carey. AARRGGHH!! Make it stop before someone gets hurt!!
Now I read that they are remaking The Longest Yard, but this time starring Adam Sandler. I normally like Adam Sandler movies (I even liked Punch Drunk Love), but he is not suitable for this role AT ALL.

[Annice Burdeos]

Agree with you Mad American. I've been taping it every Friday. The main reason I like it is that Donovan/Creegan makes me think of Jack. Sarcastic and playful, even childish at times, but with an underlying rage. Unwilling to kill but will if need be, especially if it gets personal. Not to mention he fits Jack's physical profile pretty well. Did the British version have the same actors as well??? Thought it was the same show.


Touching Evil is an Americanized version of the British mini series from a few years back. The lead was portrayed by Robson Green and featured Andy Serkis.

Jeffrey Donovan has appeared in film before but never in the lead.

Remember, studios are always looking for franchises and with Jack having a literary pedigree, the character has that potential. Most likely Disney/Beacon will cast someone who is known, has opened a film before (i.e. who can put butts in the theatre opening weekend) and who fits the general description of Jack.

With so many sequels and franchises being made, they are looking to improve their chances as much as possible for the film to turn a profit, preferably during its initial domestic run. Given who would most likely star, that individual would have to carry the film internationally as well. So look for Jack on film to be more of an action adventure type!

I don't really think a total unknown will be cast. Perhaps Disney might be interested since a relative newcomer won't ask for $14 million and a percent of the backend. However, they will probably cast someone who is being groomed for stardom in much the same way as Jennifer Garner is as Julia Roberts' heir apparent.

Its a sorry state of affairs that Hollywood takes foooooorever in bringing some novels to the big screen. Actors that would have been perfect as Jack (James Spader, Johnny Depp and others) are now in their forties. Not to say they couldn't do it, it just limits their ongoing participation for more than 1 or 2 films.

Whoever will be cast as Jack should understand and be protective of him in much the same way as Jamie Lee Curtis, Tom Jane and Hugh Jackman have been with their cinematic counterparts.

In the best book to film adaptations, that's the key.

[Ken Valentine]

A remake of the Six Million Dollar Man? Holy crap, I cannot beleive the junk that is coming out of.....wait, yes I can beleive the junk that is coming out of hollywood. Why should I be surprised that it is taking forever to get something as awesome as the Jack movie off the ground and yet every other week we get bombarded by some absolute, totally talent missing, no plot having, star vehicle for a star with no real star power, rehash of a piece of crap done a million times before, and failed a million times before, appeal to the MTV generation, worthless, forgot in a week Hollywodd blockbuster?

Maybe its just me...

To me, this business of re-makes of re-makes of re-makes shows tremendous lack of both talent and imagination on the part of Hollywood producers and directors. They see something that was brilliantly done by someone else, and then imagine that they can do it better . . . only to prove that they can't. Or they take something that wasn't worth doing in the first place, and try to improve it . . . only to prove that they can't.

There are so many good stories out there and, as you say, they have to re-make some inane piece of junk.

Wouldn't Black Wind make a great movie? Wouldn't Dydeetown World? Wheels Within Wheels? The Select? A good producer-director combination could make a career of just FPW's books alone!

And then there's the Giants Trilogy, Mirror Maze, and The Infinity Gambit by James P. Hogan. The Probability Broach by L. Neil Smith. All of them would make great movies . . . and these bozo's have to re-do the Six Million Dollar Man. :rolleyes: SMDM, the Bionic Woman, and similar programs is one of the major reasons I completely stopped watching television nearly twenty years ago -- I just stopped turning the TV on because there wasn't anything worth turning it of FOR!

Ken V.

[Richard Kendrick]

[COLOR=Black]Wouldn't Black Wind make a great movie?

Hey Ken, funny you should mention that... I am 2/3 of the way through Black Wind and the entire time I'm reading it I'm thinking, "Why hasn't this been made into a movie? It would be perfect." I could see it for sure. What a great book so far.

RIK

[Richard Kendrick]

... with a two ton heavy thing.

Queensryche?

RIK

[The Mad American]

Queensryche?

RIK

I guess your right there Richard, didn't realize it when I wrote it but yeah that is in a Queensryche song....Seems like it was a sample from something else though..can't remember what.

[Richard Kendrick]

I guess your right there Richard, didn't realize it when I wrote it but yeah that is in a Queensryche song....Seems like it was a sample from something else though..can't remember what.

There is a band called Two Ton Heavy Thing. I have no idea where the saying came from either. I just recognized it from Empire when I saw you had written it.

RIK

[The Mad American]

[QUOTE=Annice Burdeos]
With so many sequels and franchises being made, they are looking to improve their chances as much as possible for the film to turn a profit, preferably during its initial domestic run. Given who would most likely star, that individual would have to carry the film internationally as well. So look for Jack on film to be more of an action adventure type!
QUOTE]


Horror of horrors!!! Please don't let them make Jack into some sort of shallow Action/adventure type...It would really ruin the character in my opinion. But then again, you have a point on the way that the movie powers that be think....I am having a horrible, horrible vision bouncing around my head...Sly Stallone yelling "Yo Gina!!!" at the top of his lungs......aaarrrrggghhhhhhh!!! Make the bad voices go away!!!

[jimbow8]

[COLOR=Black]

Hey Ken, funny you should mention that... I am 2/3 of the way through Black Wind and the entire time I'm reading it I'm thinking, "Why hasn't this been made into a movie? It would be perfect." I could see it for sure. What a great book so far.

RIK
I honestly don't know if it would make a great movie. It covers such a huge timespan that it would require multiple actors for each of the main characters. And the big problem with this is that the movie would have to be extremely long (if any of it was cut, all the people on this site would be EXTREMELY upset). It would require either a) extensive cuts (or screen writing adaptation), b) to be a TV miniseries (which usually diminishes the quality), or c) multiple movies which would also require extensive editing and would be too big of a risk for Hollywood to take on an unknown quantity such as this.

I think it is better left as a book, personally. The Select is still the fpw book that I think begs to have a movie made of it. Good characters, interesting and timely topic, good pacing, etc.

[Gerald Rice]

Who is going to play Jack in the movie?


Sorry, I just had to do it!!! ;)

Sadly, this has come full circle in the sense that when someone suggested Hugh Jackman he wasn't available because he was doing Van Helsing. That movie will be out in 2 days. I guess we can throw him back in the mix.

My choice after Edward Norton would be that dude in Touching Evil. (Let's just hope Evil isn't a little boy.)

[Sam]

Does anybody know if FPW will be in charge of casting the roles for the movie??? Seems to me that he will know the charisma needed for the characters better than anybody else!! I hope he is, otherwise Hollywood might just want to make him Politically Correct Jack, maybe even Affirmative Action Jack. No offense intended!!

[Lisa]

Novel writers do not get to cast movie actors. Casting people do.

Lisa

[iambear]

i dont know why , but when I read any repairman jack novels, I always pitcure RICHARD DEAN ANDERSON .... I think he would make an excellent Jack

[Terry Willacker]

i dont know why , but when I read any repairman jack novels, I always pitcure RICHARD DEAN ANDERSON .... I think he would make an excellent Jack

I prefer Hugh Jackman. Anderson seems too old and too tall.

[Richard Kendrick]

when someone suggested Hugh Jackman he wasn't available because he was doing Van Helsing.


http://www.allabouthugh.com/photos/boy_from_oz5000.jpg (http://www.theboyfromoz.com/intro.html)
If I remember correctly, Jackman was not available for RJ because he was staring in "THE BOY FROM OZ" (http://www.theboyfromoz.com/intro.html), a musical on Broadway for a year. I believe Van Helsing had already been filmed by then.

RIK

[Sam]

Novel writers do not get to cast movie actors. Casting people do.

Lisa

Just thought FPW might have made that a part of the contract. Just hoping he has some influence, at least.

[Annice Burdeos]

[QUOTE=Annice Burdeos]
With so many sequels and franchises being made, they are looking to improve their chances as much as possible for the film to turn a profit, preferably during its initial domestic run. Given who would most likely star, that individual would have to carry the film internationally as well. So look for Jack on film to be more of an action adventure type!
QUOTE]


Horror of horrors!!! Please don't let them make Jack into some sort of shallow Action/adventure type...It would really ruin the character in my opinion. But then again, you have a point on the way that the movie powers that be think....I am having a horrible, horrible vision bouncing around my head...Sly Stallone yelling "Yo Gina!!!" at the top of his lungs......aaarrrrggghhhhhhh!!! Make the bad voices go away!!!


Hey, Mad American,

A studio wouldn't be that stupid in casting someone who is long past his usefulness.

Whoever is cast as Jack has to be someone who will appeal to the teenage boy demographic (studios operate under the assumption that this audience
will show up the first weekend, then tell all their buds before bouncing on to the next high octane flick) plus as I said carry the film internationally.

One actor I'd like to see considered is Christian Bale who is donning the Batcape. He is relatively little known in America unless you happened to see American Psycho (After seeing this, the reaction of most people was" what DID HE LOOK LIKE? No one could say with any definitiveness. But we sure knew WHAT he did.
After the play ends, it appears Jackman will seque to X3 (perhaps X4 will shoot simultaneously) and he does have plans of bringing Wolverine to the screen in his own film.

Norton doesn't seem right as Jack....I really don't know why

[Biggles]

Norton doesn't seem right as Jack....I really don't know why

Maybe because he's played too many nut cases? I like Ed Norton a lot, but he's kind of like Christopher Walken now, in that he's played too many nutso types.

[jimbow8]

Maybe because he's played too many nut cases? I like Ed Norton a lot, but he's kind of like Christopher Walken now, in that he's played too many nutso types.
perfect then

[Noelie]

I've always liked Ed Norton as Jack, but I was watching The Ring again last night, and I really think Martin Henderson could be a good choice. Cute, but not too cute, sarcastic, but not over the top.

I like John Cusack a lot too though.

[Bastard]

For my part I'd have to say either Cusack, Caviezel or Norton. Personally I'd lean toward James Caviezel, and no, I don't think that his eye color will be a problem--contact lenses anyone? :D However, I really dig the notion of John Cusack, too. And as for Ed Norton, well, he'd be my first pick If he hadn't done a Christopher Walken with his career.

jake

[Noelie]

I must have missed something about Ed Norton. I watch a lot of movies, and I'm not sure what you guys are talking about. Must be some movies I haven't seen?

[Scott Miller]

I must have missed something about Ed Norton. I watch a lot of movies, and I'm not sure what you guys are talking about. Must be some movies I haven't seen?

I concur. Besides, what is wrong with Walken? He is one of my faves.

Scott

[Joe Konrath]

Not to catch hell by suggesting this, but what about Will Smith as Jack? Is race a problem?

Lincoln Rhyme, in the Jeffery Deaver books, is white, but Denzel played him perfectly in Bone Collector.

I think Big Willie Style would be a great Repairman.

Failing that, how about Gary Coleman?

Joe

[SDSwami]

Not to catch hell by suggesting this, but what about Will Smith as Jack? Is race a problem?

Lincoln Rhyme, in the Jeffery Deaver books, is white, but Denzel played him perfectly in Bone Collector.

I think Big Willie Style would be a great Repairman.

Failing that, how about Gary Coleman?

Joe

Will is too flashy in my opinion, and well, Gary is just a little too short.

[Noelie]

I never knew that Lincoln Rhyme was white :eek:

[jimbow8]

Not to catch hell by suggesting this, but what about Will Smith as Jack? Is race a problem?

Lincoln Rhyme, in the Jeffery Deaver books, is white, but Denzel played him perfectly in Bone Collector.

I think Big Willie Style would be a great Repairman.

Failing that, how about Gary Coleman?

Joe
I'd prefer Emannuel Lewis actually. ;)

[The Mad American]

Not to catch hell by suggesting this, but what about Will Smith as Jack? Is race a problem?

Lincoln Rhyme, in the Jeffery Deaver books, is white, but Denzel played him perfectly in Bone Collector.

I think Big Willie Style would be a great Repairman.

Failing that, how about Gary Coleman?

Joe


Lets see...hmmm...Will Smith as Jack? hhmmmmm? I would have to say HELL NO!!

Its bad enough that Will Smith was horrible in Wild Wild West and now he is supposed to be the lead in a remake of "The Omega Man" based on Richard Mathesons "I am Legend" (Character played by Charlton Heston in the Omega Man, and played much, much much better by Vincent Price in the first movie adaptation of the book, can't remember what the title to the Vincent price movie was though...)

See my post in the string "Troy, worst movie ever...." on this subject. Stuff like that matters, at least to me it does.

And besides I think Martin Lawrence has much better range as an actor....JK

[Scott Hajek]

Lets see...hmmm...Will Smith as Jack? hhmmmmm? I would have to say HELL NO!!

Its bad enough that Will Smith was horrible in Wild Wild West and now he is supposed to be the lead in a remake of "The Omega Man" based on Richard Mathesons "I am Legend" (Character played by Charlton Heston in the Omega Man, and played much, much much better by Vincent Price in the first movie adaptation of the book, can't remember what the title to the Vincent price movie was though...)

See my post in the string "Troy, worst movie ever...." on this subject. Stuff like that matters, at least to me it does.

And besides I think Martin Lawrence has much better range as an actor....JK
"Last Man On Earth" for the Vinnie Price movie.

And what about Will Smith in "I, Robot"? It looks like this movie is not the Asimov classic, but "Terminator meets Gremlins"

[jimbow8]

Lets see...hmmm...Will Smith as Jack? hhmmmmm? I would have to say HELL NO!!

Its bad enough that Will Smith was horrible in Wild Wild West and now he is supposed to be the lead in a remake of "The Omega Man" based on Richard Mathesons "I am Legend" (Character played by Charlton Heston in the Omega Man, and played much, much much better by Vincent Price in the first movie adaptation of the book, can't remember what the title to the Vincent price movie was though...)

See my post in the string "Troy, worst movie ever...." on this subject. Stuff like that matters, at least to me it does.

And besides I think Martin Lawrence has much better range as an actor....JK
I thought Arnold was going to be in the Omega Man, or am I thinking of a different remake? Its too hard to keep all the remakes straight nowadays.

http://www.repairmanjack.com/forum/showthread.php?p=2801#post2801

[jimbow8]

Speaking of remakes, I saw a preview for Around the World in 80 Days with Jackie Chan (apparently Arnold is in it also) and OMG does this movie look horrible.

[The Mad American]

I thought Arnold was going to be in the Omega Man, or am I thinking of a different remake? Its too hard to keep all the remakes straight nowadays.

http://www.repairmanjack.com/forum/showthread.php?p=2801#post2801


Arnold was originally going to be in the remake of Omega man but when he decided to enter politics he decided not to do it and the studios wanted a younger more viable actor for it...so the got Will Smith?
:confused:

[ejlain]

RE: Who is going to play Jack in the movie?


http://www.davidmorse.org/photo/

How about David Morse? I know this guy hasn't been mentioned yet as a possible Jack, but I often picture him when reading the novels. He's versatile, a good actor, has the "seasoned" look on his face. A little older than most other choices mentioned but I think he'd be right for the role. He's got a lot of depth.

- Ed

[Kenji]

RE: Who is going to play Jack in the movie?


http://www.davidmorse.org/photo/

How about David Morse? I know this guy hasn't been mentioned yet as a possible Jack, but I often picture him when reading the novels. He's versatile, a good actor, has the "seasoned" look on his face. A little older than most other choices mentioned but I think he'd be right for the role. He's got a lot of depth.

- Ed


If he was young, sure, maybe he is good for Jack.

When I was first read The Tomb, I imagined Jack is Tom Berenger. But sadly, now he is old.... :(

[nijimeijer]

What about James Marsden (http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0005188/)? Another X-Men alumni. Not quite a "star", but not entirely an "unknown" either.

He looks fairly average.

(Click his name for his IMDB sheet)

[Scott Hajek]

Has Michael Vartan from ALIAS been considered?

[nijimeijer]

Has Michael Vartan from ALIAS been considered?

He's a decent choice, I've always thought. Though I'm not sure how he'd look with dark hair. Can't remember if he had dark hair in Mists of Avalon, but somehow I doubt it.

[Zanna]

[QUOTE=Animagess][QUOTE=nijimeijer]
Personally, I'd like to see someone like Tom Welling from Smallville play Jack. He's very plain, kind of slim, but muscular. He's a pretty good actor, in addition. A little young, maybe, but then, they'll obviously want to skew younger, especially if they want to franchise the character. There's a lot of others fit for the role, but he's my latest choice.

QUOTE]


Plain? TW? Be still my heart! That boy couldn't be plain if his life depended on it. I'd tune in to watch him as Jack if the project were to go the route of an ongoing HBO series al la Six Feet Under. But as for being an average looking, mid-height, blending-in kind of guy, TW wouldn't work. Bummer, though - he's yummy.

Z~

[Doc]

Time for a n00b to chime in, hi Y'all ~waves~

Just got though reading Haunted Air last night and as I'm prone to do I put an actors voice to the main character, for Jack it was Hugh Jackmans.

[jimbow8]

Time for a n00b to chime in, hi Y'all ~waves~

Just got though reading Haunted Air last night and as I'm prone to do I put an actors voice to the main character, for Jack it was Hugh Jackmans.
Welcome to the board, Doc.

When this whole movie topic got started way back when, Hugh Jackman was one of the first names mentioned. At the time he had conflicts that precluded him from being a candidate. However, much time has now passed and I wonder if he would again be considered or his "price-tag" would be too high.

[Doc]

Well if Van Helcing tanks, his price will go down maybe. Unless they find a 30 something unknown to bet on might as well get a "name". Will the movie when it happens be a theatric release or TV movie(if it is I hope HBO) ?

[maladenoir]

I happen to think that Thomas Jane would be an excellent Jack. In both "Thursday" and "The Punisher," Jane's character exhibited several traits similar to Jack's. Also, Jane fits the physical side of Jack well, being about 35 years old, of average height and description, but with a camoflauged killer body. He is not well known as an actor either, which is a bonus, because then the viewer can see him as "Jack," as opposed to "Hey, that's Aragon, or Wolverine, or Smoochy," which is a problem with casting a well established actor. Thoughts?

[Noelie]

Ah, yes. Thomas Jane was a name that came up when I was talking about this with my brother. He has a large range of what he's capable of, and he's right physically.

[Annice Burdeos]

Ah, yes. Thomas Jane was a name that came up when I was talking about this with my brother. He has a large range of what he's capable of, and he's right physically.

Having followed Thomas Janes career, he'd be a perfect Jack (he was so cool as The Punisher but was equally as good in 61, Under Suspicion and Thin Red Line among others. He is generally second, third or fourth billed billed depending on the film)

My choices for Jack would be as follows:

Johnny Messner - Upcoming in Anacondas (Has Jack's look and characteristics. I've seen him in Anacondas)

Thomas Jane

and Christian Bale (I'd like anyone to tell me what he looked like in American Psycho. He was so very good as the antagonist. And no one who saw this film could adequately described what he looked like.)

[jimbow8]

Having followed Thomas Janes career, he'd be a perfect Jack (he was so cool as The Punisher but was equally as good in 61, Under Suspicion and Thin Red Line among others. He is generally second, third or fourth billed billed depending on the film)

My choices for Jack would be as follows:

Johnny Messner - Upcoming in Anacondas (Has Jack's look and characteristics. I've seen him in Anacondas)

Thomas Jane

and Christian Bale (I'd like anyone to tell me what he looked like in American Psycho. He was so very good as the antagonist. And no one who saw this film could adequately described what he looked like.)
I can actually picture exactly what he looked like in American Psycho, and I only saw the movie once. Three piece suit, slicked back hair, superior look on his face. Though I couldn't tell you what he looked like in Reign of Fire, and I've seen that movie numerous times.

[Scott Hajek]

I can actually picture exactly what he looked like in American Psycho, and I only saw the movie once. Three piece suit, slicked back hair, superior look on his face. Though I couldn't tell you what he looked like in Reign of Fire, and I've seen that movie numerous times.
Bale wouldn't be a good Jack, since he'll be Bruce Wayne before that. And a much better one than Clooney or Kilmer.

[remylass]

Bale from American Psycho just happens to be my avatar. I think he would be a great Jack because he can actually act and handle action. I love Christian Bale, but he can't be Jack.

First of all, he is doing Batman, and so I doubt he would sign on to be Jack. Secondly, he has a very distinctive way of speaking. Granted, he is great with accents, but his unique mouth doesn't make him blend in well. That is one of the things I find so attractive about him.

However, if they picked Bale to be Jack, I would be pleased. I don't think he is a total fit, but I think he would be great.

[Bluesman Mike Lindner]

Time for a n00b to chime in, hi Y'all ~waves~

Just got though reading Haunted Air last night and as I'm prone to do I put an actors voice to the main character, for Jack it was Hugh Jackmans.

Welcome, Doc (I'll never play poker with you, though.) Stick with us and you'll find yourself pondering strange questions. Like, will Tom Jr. prove to be carved from the same hard wood as his brother, sister, and dad? Will Gina and Gerry be happy together? And most poignant: will Ignatz find enough to eat on Neeka? Hang around. You'll come up with a few of your own.

[stacyzinda123]

I want Charlize to play Gia. Or am I wrong?

I think Charlize Theron would make the perfect Gia. Do you think she's too popular though? She can't steal the show...

[Ken Valentine]

I think Charlize Theron would make the perfect Gia. Do you think she's too popular though? She can't steal the show...

If I remember correctly, she has been one of the favorites on this board for the part of Gia.

Ken V.

[Annice Burdeos]

I can actually picture exactly what he looked like in American Psycho, and I only saw the movie once. Three piece suit, slicked back hair, superior look on his face. Though I couldn't tell you what he looked like in Reign of Fire, and I've seen that movie numerous times.


Your description of Bale was accurate enough but WHO WAS HE. He could be just about anybody, now couldn't he ?

[Susan]

Has Michael Vartan from ALIAS been considered?
For shame, Scotty!

His hawk-like nose would be too distinct a physical characteristic for Repairman Jack. I'm afraid this suggestion is going to cost you. You must overnight $20 to me immediately.

Your loving friend,
Susan

[jimbow8]

For shame, Scotty!

His hawk-like nose would be too distinct a physical characteristic for Repairman Jack. I'm afraid this suggestion is going to cost you. You must overnight $20 to me immediately.

Your loving friend,
Susan
Damn! That'll teach us not to put forth unsatisfactory suggestions. :confused:

[Susan]

How about David Morse?
- Ed
Ed, don't make me have to bitch slap you. David is too old and too tall and his head is too small for his body! Not a criticism, just an observation. He is a good actor, though, but I'm not sure he could carry the lead in a big action movie.

What about James Marsden (http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0005188/)? Another X-Men alumni. Not quite a "star", but not entirely an "unknown" either.
He looks fairly average.

Average? Maybe if you live in LA. I think he's too much of a pretty boy unlike Ed Burns. His eyes are too blue and his smile is too disarming. He is kinda hot, though. Meow.

Personally I'd lean toward James Caviezel

jake
You bastard! (Sorry, I couldn't resist)

Jesus Christ as Repairman Jack. Oh man, you know someone's going to hell for that! Choose Ed Burns and save yourself from eternal hellfire.

Not to catch hell by suggesting this, but what about Will Smith as Jack? Is race a problem?

Joe
Yes and no. I think that part of Jack's charm is that he is a "generic pale male". I LOVE Will Smith, though. I guess if I didn't feel so strongly about who should play Jack Ed Burns then I wouldn't hesitate to nominate Will. But I've thought about this a long, long time and I have my mind made up Ed Burns.

No, I'm not going to tell you who it is Ed Burns you'll just have to guess!

Susan

[jimbow8]

I'm not sure where Susan is going with this, but I want to state right now that I think Edward Burns would be perfect for the role. I just had to get that out there before someone else tried to take credit for the idea.

Jim (who doesn't want to have to send Susan $20)

[Susan]

I'm not sure where Susan is going with this, but I want to state right now that I think Edward Burns would be perfect for the role. I just had to get that out there before someone else tried to take credit for the idea.

Jim (who doesn't want to have to send Susan $20)
Did I ever tell you you're my favorite?

Love always,

Susanita

[Noelie]

David is too old and too tall and his head is too small for his body!

Oh, lord. Not only that, but he creeps me out in the worst possible way. It's something about his eyes, he looks like he's a few bricks shy of a load. It's not so much that he looks stupid, as he looks...crazy. He's always made me think "pedophile". Ew, creeeeepy. Ok, I'm alright now.

[Kenji]

Nobody mention about him. Just now, came up to my mind. What about Matthew McConaughey as Jack?

[Hung By The Neck Til Dead]

Nobody mention about him. Just now, came up to my mind. What about Matthew McConaughey as Jack?


other than his texan accent? as a east coast raised man? don't think it would work, but he "could" do Jack justice otherwise...see "Fraility". ;)

[Hung By The Neck Til Dead]

Christian Bale (I'd like anyone to tell me what he looked like in American Psycho. He was so very good as the antagonist. And no one who saw this film could adequately described what he looked like.)


If I remember rightly, he played the lead in "Equalibrium" and did a decent job of carrying a snoozer of a movie. After all, all I really remember of that movie is the 'gun-kata' which was some killer moves with a handgun, would be killer to see Jack do that in a fight even though its unrealistic.

[Kenji]

other than his texan accent? as a east coast raised man? don't think it would work, but he "could" do Jack justice otherwise...see "Fraility". ;)

Texan accent? Oh...I don't know such accent. :D
I don't know Texan accent. But he is actor. Actor can change the own accent, ...right?

[Bluesman Mike Lindner]

Texan accent? Oh...I don't know such accent. :D
I don't know Texan accent. But he is actor. Actor can change the own accent, ...right?

That's the theory, Kenji, but it varies wildly in practice. Some actors excel at accents, like James Doohan of the original STAR TREK. Some are so awful their lame attempts ruin the flick--supply your own examples. And a few are smart enough to not even try an accent beyond their powers (think Clark Gable in GONE WITH THE WIND--though even there, Gable's blackface jive to Mammy was embarassing).

[Ken Valentine]

I'm not sure where Susan is going with this, but I want to state right now that I think Edward Burns would be perfect for the role. I just had to get that out there before someone else tried to take credit for the idea.

Jim (who doesn't want to have to send Susan $20)

I'll accept whoever is selected for the role of Jack (I'll have to won't I?)

But yesterday, I saw my first film starring John Cusac. The movie was titled THE RED BULL, and although the movie was good, Cusac just doesn't seem like Jack to me. Which is not to say he can't do a convincing Jack, it's just that actually seeing him in a movie has given me a better perspective.

I can't remember ever seeing a movie with Edward Burns in it. Any recommendations?

Ken V.

[Ken Valentine]

That's the theory, Kenji, but it varies wildly in practice. Some actors excel at accents, like James Doohan of the original STAR TREK. Some are so awful their lame attempts ruin the flick--supply your own examples. And a few are smart enough to not even try an accent beyond their powers (think Clark Gable in GONE WITH THE WIND--though even there, Gable's blackface jive to Mammy was embarassing).

Interestingly, one of the all-time masters of accents was Peter Ustinov. Not only could he do all of the various British accents, but English spoken with a Dutch accent, various German accents, Afrikaans, and numerous American accents as well.

But, as you said, some actors shouldn't even attempt it.

I remember a movie called BLUE, where Terrence Stamp was cast as "Azul,"someone who would have a Tex-Mex accent. He was able to eliminate most of his British accent, but Tex-Mex? No way!

Ken V.

[jimbow8]

I'll accept whoever is selected for the role of Jack (I'll have to won't I?)

But yesterday, I saw my first film starring John Cusac. The movie was titled THE RED BULL, and although the movie was good, Cusac just doesn't seem like Jack to me. Which is not to say he can't do a convincing Jack, it's just that actually seeing him in a movie has given me a better perspective.

I can't remember ever seeing a movie with Edward Burns in it. Any recommendations?

Ken V.
Edward Burns' filmography (http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0122653/)

Huh! Apparently I have only seen a few of those. I recommend, obviously, Saving Private Ryan. I love the movie She's the One, but most people find it average. (I think a big reason I like it is the soundtrack by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers.) The Brothers McMullen is good also but more of a character story than a plot-driven movie. I also enjoyed 15 Minutes. BEWARE, though, that in none of these movies does he resemble the character of Jack, so don't be expecting that.

[DaveStrorm]

other than his texan accent? as a east coast raised man? don't think it would work, but he "could" do Jack justice otherwise...see "Fraility". ;)He's also getting ready to star in Sahara and probably hopes his Dirk Pitt character will turn into a movie franchise. I'm not sure he can handle two. ;)

[Ken Valentine]

Edward Burns' filmography (http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0122653/)

Huh! Apparently I have only seen a few of those. I recommend, obviously, Saving Private Ryan. I love the movie She's the One, but most people find it average. (I think a big reason I like it is the soundtrack by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers.) The Brothers McMullen is good also but more of a character story than a plot-driven movie. I also enjoyed 15 Minutes. BEWARE, though, that in none of these movies does he resemble the character of Jack, so don't be expecting that.

I saw Saving Private Ryan. What I remember most about the movie were the goofs.

What I meant by a different perspective was the difference between seeing a still photograph, and seeing movement. Seeing the actor look up, look down, turn his head . . . that sort of thing.

Most actors and actresses have a far greater range of visible emotions than we ever see on the screen. What we actually see depends upon the requirements (or instructions) of the director. So the "he doesn't have the dark side that Jack does" argument, is for the most part, invalid.

Ken V.

[Hung By The Neck Til Dead]

Texan accent? Oh...I don't know such accent. :D
I don't know Texan accent. But he is actor. Actor can change the own accent, ...right?


Well I have never seen him in a movie were he didn't have his texan accent. Some of them he has been able to tone it down but it is still there.

[Sam]

Once again my vote goes to....Jeffery Donovan. Call me crazy, but there's something about the guy that makes me see RJ.

[Susan]

Once again my vote goes to....Jeffery Donovan. Call me crazy, but there's something about the guy that makes me see RJ.
Okay, you're crazy!

Susan

[Annice Burdeos]

Edward Burns' filmography (http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0122653/)

Huh! Apparently I have only seen a few of those. I recommend, obviously, Saving Private Ryan. I love the movie She's the One, but most people find it average. (I think a big reason I like it is the soundtrack by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers.) The Brothers McMullen is good also but more of a character story than a plot-driven movie. I also enjoyed 15 Minutes. BEWARE, though, that in none of these movies does he resemble the character of Jack, so don't be expecting that.


With a director now in place for Jack, the next step is casting him. And undoubtedly as we speak the script is out for who the director and studio are targeting. I'd imagine that will take place rather soon.

Of the two recurring choices for Jack, Ed Burns is in pre production on an untitled football film where he will be a former NFL quarterback and just recently finished a film where his character's name is Jack and his friend is Abe (Talk about coincidences). That probably eliminates Burns from consideration.

John Cusack has just signed for A Doll's House . So I don't think realistically either of these guys will be available unless BEACON is willing to wait. Somehow, I don't think so.

[gdthoms]

My vote is for Dennis Quaid. Strong, Sensitive and Nondescript.

[SDSwami]

My vote is for Dennis Quaid. Strong, Sensitive and Nondescript.

...and 50 years old. He holds his age well, but for how long?

[Sam]

Okay, you're crazy!

Susan
(bows head before Her Majesty) As you wish, oh Queen of the Wailing Banshee Cherubs in my Head. I am at your service for your kung-fu is stronger than mine. :D

[Noelie]

My vote is for Dennis Quaid. Strong, Sensitive and Nondescript

Dear god, he annoys the living hell out of me. Obviously, we will never all come to a consensus of who should play Jack, but the thought of Dennis Quaid playing him almost makes me want to cry.

[Susan]

(bows head before Her Majesty) As you wish, oh Queen of the Wailing Banshee Cherubs in my Head. I am at your service for your kung-fu is stronger than mine. :D
Good answer, grasshopper! ;)

Susan

[Richard Kendrick]

My vote is for Dennis Quaid. Strong, Sensitive and Nondescript.

I don't know... I think I would prefer Randy Quaid. :D

http://www.mgm.com/mgm/images/stills/MGMA000123-still_hires.jpg

RIK

[Susan]

I don't know... I think I would prefer Randy Quaid. :D

RIK
Richard,

You just made me choke on my chicken salad! ROTFL!

Susan

[Kenji]

I don't know... I think I would prefer Randy Quaid. :D

http://www.mgm.com/mgm/images/stills/MGMA000123-still_hires.jpg

RIK


If Dennis Quaid is Jack, Randy is Jack's brother! :p

[Sam]

Well then we'll just have Chevy Chase be Jack and Randy as his brother and it will be National Lampoon's Repairman Jack. :D
"Real tomato catsup, Tom?" ... "Nothin' but the best, Jack."

[Kenji]

Well then we'll just have Chevy Chase be Jack and Randy as his brother and it will be National Lampoon's Repairman Jack. :D
"Real tomato catsup, Tom?" ... "Nothin' but the best, Jack."

Hahaha! National Lampon's repairman Jack! :D I wanna see it!

Then,Bevely Dangelo as Gia?

[jimbow8]

Hahaha! National Lampon's repairman Jack! :D I wanna see it!

Then,Bevely Dangelo as Gia?
And Imogene Coca as Aunt Nellie - but alas, she died. :(

[Peter]

OK, there seems to be a bit of disagreement about this but I have a solution. I will do it!

No, no, don't try to talk me out of it, I am happy to just to settle all these arguments. I will admit I am 53, going bald and a little out of condition but I am sure I can bring out the inner me and fill the role to perfection. I will, of course, have to tone down my natural sex appeal to seem more non-descript but I can do that, I just know I can do that....

Er, some of the above was a joke, you get to pick which parts!

I still think that Kevin Bacon (or to be fair Kevin Bacon about 10 years ago, no idea what he is like now) would be pefect.

[Susan]

OK, there seems to be a bit of disagreement about this but I have a solution. I will do it!

No, no, don't try to talk me out of it, I am happy to just to settle all these arguments. I will admit I am 53, going bald and a little out of condition but I am sure I can bring out the inner me and fill the role to perfection. I will, of course, have to tone down my natural sex appeal to seem more non-descript but I can do that, I just know I can do that....

Wow! What a guy. Now that's a true fan.

Okay, let's see a picture!

Susanita

[Ken Valentine]

OK, there seems to be a bit of disagreement about this but I have a solution. I will do it!

No, no, don't try to talk me out of it, I am happy to just to settle all these arguments. I will admit I am 53, going bald and a little out of condition but I am sure I can bring out the inner me and fill the role to perfection. I will, of course, have to tone down my natural sex appeal to seem more non-descript but I can do that, I just know I can do that....

Er, some of the above was a joke, you get to pick which parts!

I still think that Kevin Bacon (or to be fair Kevin Bacon about 10 years ago, no idea what he is like now) would be pefect.

I volunteer to play Abe. I'd have to put on a few pounds, but that's the fun part.

Ken V. (Isn't chocolate a vegetable?)

[Animagess]

I just saw Spartan last night, so I searched this thread to see if anyone had mentioned how much Kilmer reminded me of Jack in that movie... He was pretty ruthless then, and yet some of his other movies indicate that he can play a more laid-back version of a character. Suffice to say I wouldn't throw a riot if he was picked to play the role.

As for who I would be willing to play in RJ Da Movie... Well, I don't see any openings for sixteen-year-old Asian girls, but with makeup and Special Effects being the way they are today... anything is possible!

[fpw]

As for who I would be willing to play in RJ Da Movie... Well, I don't see any openings for sixteen-year-old Asian girls, but with makeup and Special Effects being the way they are today... anything is possible!

Did you forget that they're shooting in Shanghai? No special effects needed.

[jimbow8]

I volunteer to play Abe. I'd have to put on a few pounds, but that's the fun part.

Ken V. (Isn't chocolate a vegetable?)
I just had this conversation with someone at work. I say "NO! It is not a vegetable; it is a legume!" :D

[jimbow8]

I just saw Spartan last night, so I searched this thread to see if anyone had mentioned how much Kilmer reminded me of Jack in that movie... He was pretty ruthless then, and yet some of his other movies indicate that he can play a more laid-back version of a character. Suffice to say I wouldn't throw a riot if he was picked to play the role.

As for who I would be willing to play in RJ Da Movie... Well, I don't see any openings for sixteen-year-old Asian girls, but with makeup and Special Effects being the way they are today... anything is possible!
Now why would someone else mention how much Kilmer reminded you of Jack?!?! I'm confused! :D

[Animagess]

Now why would someone else mention how much Kilmer reminded you of Jack?!?! I'm confused! :D

I meant I checked to see if anyone had the same thought. I actually caught this error reading over my post, but was too lazy to modify it. Phwah...

[Ken Valentine]

I just had this conversation with someone at work. I say "NO! It is not a vegetable; it is a legume!" :D

Nah! You're thinking of chocolate covered peanuts. :D

Ken V.

[jimbow8]

Nah! You're thinking of chocolate covered peanuts. :D

Ken V.
But chocolate comes from a bean, and a bean is a legume, right?

[Kenji]

Did you forget that they're shooting in Shanghai? No special effects needed.

No special effect? Then....wire action? Like a Matrix? :)

[Ken Valentine]

But chocolate comes from a bean, and a bean is a legume, right?

Some people refer to their head as a bean. That doesn't necessarily mean they have a legume on their shoulders. :D

All the legume's I know of are annual plants; peas, beans, lentils . . . Cocoa and coffee seeds are called beans, but they grow on trees or bushes. So they might actually be considered a fruit. Although I think coffee "beans" are actually berries.

I'm not a botanist, so I don't know for certain.

Ken V.

[jimbow8]

I'm not a botanist, so I don't know for certain.

Ken V.
Alright!!! We need an expert to settle this for us.

No, not you, Biggles! :p

[Animagess]

If you took a bean and made a soup out of it, that's not to say the soup itself would be a legume, right? By the same note, chocolate is comprised of only a part of the cacao bean and mixed up with a bunch of other stuff.

The only conclusion I can make is that... chocolate tastes good no matter what's in it. And if it doesn't taste good, then it's not chocolate. And circular logic makes sense if you don't think about it too hard. You don't need to be a botanist to figure that one out, you just need to change the subject a lot! :cool:

[Biggles]

Alright!!! We need an expert to settle this for us.

No, not you, Biggles! :p

Coffee beans are actually the pits of coffee berries, so coffee is actually a fruit. :p

[jimbow8]

Liev Schreiber?

[The Mad American]

Liev Schreiber?


I don't mind Liev Schreiber as an actor but I don't think he is right for Jack. Just don't see him being able to pull off the burning rage thing. Just my humble 2cents worth.

After FPW mentioning Olyphant from Deadwood I think I have him in my head as Jack now. Was originally voting for Jeffery Donovan, but it changed.

[Sam]

Did either of you see Sum of All Fears? Shreiber played Clarke, Clancy's Jack more or less (read Without Remorse). I didn't feel that he pulled it off as Clarke so I really doubt he could play Jack. My vote still goes to Donovan, he just has to work on his dark sided expressions. But his interrogation scene with the hospital janitor in the season finale.....when he'd had enough of role playing with the guy.....that was Jack.
As for Olyphant I haven't seen Deadwood, but the guy must be damn good!! Maybe FPW was dropping a hint to us???

[Kenji]

Did either of you see Sum of All Fears? Shreiber played Clarke, Clancy's Jack more or less (read Without Remorse). I didn't feel that he pulled it off as Clarke so I really doubt he could play Jack. My vote still goes to Donovan, he just has to work on his dark sided expressions. But his interrogation scene with the hospital janitor in the season finale.....when he'd had enough of role playing with the guy.....that was Jack.
As for Olyphant I haven't seen Deadwood, but the guy must be damn good!! Maybe FPW was dropping a hint to us???

Jack Ryan series are very strange. Jack Ryan=Arec Baldwin, Harrison Ford, Ben Afflek. Clarke=Willem Dafoe, Liev Schreiber. :confused:

[Noelie]

I dunno. Don't you think Liev Schrieber is a little..weird looking?

[The Mad American]

Did either of you see Sum of All Fears? Shreiber played Clarke, Clancy's Jack more or less (read Without Remorse). I didn't feel that he pulled it off as Clarke so I really doubt he could play Jack. My vote still goes to Donovan, he just has to work on his dark sided expressions. But his interrogation scene with the hospital janitor in the season finale.....when he'd had enough of role playing with the guy.....that was Jack.
As for Olyphant I haven't seen Deadwood, but the guy must be damn good!! Maybe FPW was dropping a hint to us???


The scene that FPW brought up from Deadwood in regards to Olyphant being Jack was from the season finale, Olyphants character gives this scummy character who is trying to take a gold claim from his daughter(the scummy guys daughter not Olyphants) a beating that is very impressive. It is how the beating comes about that really hooked me. Olyphants character lets this guy ramble on about how he is going to do things and there is nothing Olyphants character can do about it...blah blah blah, during the whole little speech you can just see the rage building and then he beats the snot out of this guy. If you get a chance you should check this episode out and see for yourself.

[Biggles]

Who is going to play Jack in the movie?


Sorry, I just had to do it!!! ;)

Just saw King Arthur last night. Da guy dat played Arthur could be Jack, nu?

[Kenji]

Just saw King Arthur last night. Da guy dat played Arthur could be Jack, nu?

Clive Owen? He is England actor.

[nijimeijer]

Just saw King Arthur last night.

Why would you do that to yourself?

[Annice Burdeos]

Why would you do that to yourself?


I did indeed do this to myself a few weeks back and although I like Clive Owen very much, the direction or lack thereof and the constant flaunting
of Knightley as Guinivere pushing her front and center , I felt I was watching Guinivere unite the tribes of Britain, that she alone brought about the legend of Arthur. To build this as historically accurate was silly at worst and stupid at best.

Owen has done solid work in the past particularly Croupier and the current I'll Sleep When I'm Dead. (In the latter, one might could argue he exhibits
some of Jack's tendencies but his upcoming slate is a bit full at the moment.

He could lose easily enough his Britishness ........

[nijimeijer]

Owen has done solid work in the past particularly Croupier and the current I'll Sleep When I'm Dead. (In the latter, one might could argue he exhibits
some of Jack's tendencies but his upcoming slate is a bit full at the moment.

He could lose easily enough his Britishness ........

To be quite honest, the only movies I've seen him in are Bourne Identity and Gosford Park. I knew him from a videogame he starred in.

[EGWilliams]

Just wanted to throw my vote in for Thomas Jane as well.
Good actor who can do action as well.

EG

[Biggles]

I did indeed do this to myself a few weeks back and although I like Clive Owen very much, the direction or lack thereof and the constant flaunting
of Knightley as Guinivere pushing her front and center , I felt I was watching Guinivere unite the tribes of Britain, that she alone brought about the legend of Arthur. To build this as historically accurate was silly at worst and stupid at best.

Owen has done solid work in the past particularly Croupier and the current I'll Sleep When I'm Dead. (In the latter, one might could argue he exhibits
some of Jack's tendencies but his upcoming slate is a bit full at the moment.

He could lose easily enough his Britishness ........

What about dat guy dat played Launcelot?

[LVerner]

I suppose Michael Biehn is too old, he turns 48 this month.

He would have been so perfect for RJ in the 80s, though:

http://www.imdb.com/gallery/ss/0088247/Ss/0088247/Terminator_PUB06.jpg?path=pgallery&path_key=Biehn,%20Michael


Lee

[Annice Burdeos]

What about dat guy dat played Launcelot?

Sorry but Ioan Gruffudd (Lancelot to Owen's Arthur) has just signed to be in
Fantastic Four- coming next summer to a theater near you .....

[Biggles]

Sorry but Ioan Gruffudd (Lancelot to Owen's Arthur) has just signed to be in
Fantastic Four- coming next summer to a theater near you .....

That wouldn't necessarily preclude him from being Jack, would it? I don't see Jack coming out before that.

[Lisa]

Ioan Gruffudd is also Welsh. I'm not sure what kind of American accent he does, since I've only drooled over him... uh, I mean, watched him... in things where he's had a British accent.

Lisa

[Scott Hajek]

Sorry but Ioan Gruffudd (Lancelot to Owen's Arthur) has just signed to be in
Fantastic Four- coming next summer to a theater near you .....
Playing who?

[jimbow8]

Playing who?
Ioan Gruffudd .... Reed Richards/Mr. Fantastic (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0120667/)

And The Commish as The Thing

[Biggles]

Ioan Gruffudd is also Welsh. I'm not sure what kind of American accent he does, since I've only drooled over him... uh, I mean, watched him... in things where he's had a British accent.

Lisa

Welsh, meaning he's British, not English.

[nijimeijer]

Someone suggested Justin Theroux to me. Not sure how I feel about him, but he's in the age range, he's rather regular looking, and he's got the figure. He's currently in Six Feet Under on HBO as Brenda's boyfriend, and he was the psychotic Irish guy in Charlie's Angels 2 (which I have now publicly admitted to seeing). His biggest problem is his receding hairline.

[hford713]

How about a toughened up Billy Crudup (Big Fish, World Traveller - which is excellent) as a suggestion?

[Lisa]

Welsh, meaning he's British, not English.

You lost me, Biggles.

Lisa

[Annice Burdeos]

That wouldn't necessarily preclude him from being Jack, would it? I don't see Jack coming out before that.

If the Hollywood process is anything like I'm aware of, the casting call is out
now to actors the studio/producers are considering.

Generally in most routine arrangements once the director has been set and a budget approved/agreed upon, then the script is forwarded to those lucky enough

[Ken Valentine]

You lost me, Biggles.

Lisa

Wales and Scotland, are two vestigial countries separate from England . . . sorta. Welsh and Scots are British, but not English.

It would be similar -- but not exactly comparable -- to say that Canadians and Mexicans are Americans, but not United Statesians.

(Now I've got her REALLY confused. Heh. :D )

Ken V.

[Kenji]

Wales and Scotland, are two vestigial countries separate from England . . . sorta. Welsh and Scots are British, but not English.

It would be similar -- but not exactly comparable -- to say that Canadians and Mexicans are Americans, but not United Statesians.

(Now I've got her REALLY confused. Heh. :D )

Ken V.

World is interesting. :)

[jimbow8]

How about Ron Eldard?

[Bluesman Mike Lindner]

How about Ron Eldard?

Not bad! But maybe just a tad too handsome for the way Jack is described.

[nijimeijer]

How about Ron Eldard?

I kind of thought the same thing after seeing House of Sand and Fog (which was horrible, but in a good way--it made you feel absolutely horrible the whole time); but I think he's a bit on the older side.

[crimsontarheel]

i know he has been mentioned before but i think he would be a good fit for several reasons

[Lisa]

Wales and Scotland, are two vestigial countries separate from England . . . sorta. Welsh and Scots are British, but not English.


Umm, yeah, I know that. That's why I said he had a BRITISH accent and not English. (He's played characters with both English and Welsh accents.)

Still have no idea what Biggles was talkin' bout. I think he's just trying to bug me. :D

Lisa

[Biggles]

Wales and Scotland, are two vestigial countries separate from England . . . sorta. Welsh and Scots are British, but not English.

It would be similar -- but not exactly comparable -- to say that Canadians and Mexicans are Americans, but not United Statesians.

(Now I've got her REALLY confused. Heh. :D )

Ken V.

Maybe the best way to explain is that what are now the British Isles were inhabited by various Celtic tribes at the time of the Roman Conquest. Among these were the Picts, in present day Scotland. The Romans built Hadrian's Wall to keep the Picts from surging Southward into Britainnia, the area they had conquered (modern-day England). The Romans first conquered, then assimilated the British tribes south of Hadrian's Wall into their empire. When the empire was imploding in the Fifth Century A.D., the Romans withdrew, leaving the British to the less than tender mercies of the Germanic tribes from modern-day Denmark and the Low Countries of Northern Europe. These tribes were the Jutes, Angles and Saxons. Over a span of a couple hundred years, the Anglo-Saxon tribes pushed the British tribes West into Cornwall and Wales (ironically "Welsh" is derived from a Saxon word for foreigner). British also fled across the Channel to Britainny and Normandy. "England" is not named for its original inhabitants, but for the Angles--Germanic invaders. The Normans (who were supposedly British, although they may have intermarried with Norsemen in the intervening centuries, and certainly with Franks as well) invaded England in 1066, defeated the last Saxon (and last "English") king, Harold, at the Battle of Hastings, and the rest is History.

Thus "English" is not the same as "British". Modern Brits can trace their roots to Celtic, Germanic, French, Norse, and Roman origins.

BTW, this all happened during the "Dark Ages", so some of the geneology may be open to conjecture. The Scots, Irish and Welsh have been around the whole time though.

[Biggles]

Umm, yeah, I know that. That's why I said he had a BRITISH accent and not English. (He's played characters with both English and Welsh accents.)

Still have no idea what Biggles was talkin' bout. I think he's just trying to bug me. :D

Lisa

My Dear Queen,

My experience is that I don't have to try to bug you--it just occurs naturally. To be more precise, though, I was trying more to cornfuse you. :)

[Ken Valentine]

I think he's a bit on the older side.

Only four years. And it would take very little make-up to correct that. If any.

Ken V.

[Ken Valentine]

How about Ron Eldard?

I like!

Ken V.

[Ken Valentine]

Not bad! But maybe just a tad too handsome for the way Jack is described.

I don't know Mike. 'Bout the only facial description I can recall is Jack's crooked smile, and in THE TOMB, where Jack looks in the mirror and notes that his teeth could be a bit whiter and straighter.

Jack is recognizable, which is why he takes pains not to be noticed.

Jim's photo says "Jack" to me.

And for a movie, Jack would have to have an image that you could imagine Gia would find attractive. They would have to look like they fit together.

Ken V.

[Ken Valentine]

My Dear Queen,

My experience is that I don't have to try to bug you--it just occurs naturally. To be more precise, though, I was trying more to cornfuse you. :)

Well . . . Your statement, and Lisa's reply sure confused me! :rolleyes:

Ken V.

[Ken Valentine]

BTW, this all happened during the "Dark Ages", so some of the geneology may be open to conjecture.

Another thing which helps to confuse geneologists is changes in the spelling of names.

Kaye's maiden name was Viggars. It had been traced back in England to the 12th century, but spelling changes made it impossible go back further with any certainty.

Going back even further, some Greek explorers "discovered" the British Isles about 360 B.C.. They were looking for land in the West. They went to Ireland, and were told that there was land farther west. They made it to Iceland, and were told that there was land still farther west. And according to the chronicles, it seems that they were stopped by ice almost within sight of Greenland.

Fascinating subject . . . history.

Ken V.

[Ken Valentine]

i know he has been mentioned before but i think he would be a good fit for several reasons

A lot of people would make a good fit -- that's why this topic is so much fun. :D

And welcome to the board!

Ken V.

[Bluesman Mike Lindner]

I kind of thought the same thing after seeing House of Sand and Fog (which was horrible, but in a good way--it made you feel absolutely horrible the whole time); but I think he's a bit on the older side.

Nij, let me be the first to welcome you to the exalted ranks of the few, the proud, the...the...uh...=driven=! But remember always: "With great power comes great responsibility."

[nijimeijer]

Nij, let me be the first to welcome you to the exalted ranks of the few, the proud, the...the...uh...=driven=! But remember always: "With great power comes great responsibility."

I *am* a Senior Member now, aren't I!

Oh wait, I'm Puerto Rican. Let's change that to Senor Member. :D

[Bluesman Mike Lindner]

I *am* a Senior Member now, aren't I!

Oh wait, I'm Puerto Rican. Let's change that to Senor Member. :D

"Senor Member?!" I dunno...sounds like a porn flick to me. "And starring El Bicho Grande!" :D

[Bluesman Mike Lindner]

I don't know Mike. 'Bout the only facial description I can recall is Jack's crooked smile, and in THE TOMB, where Jack looks in the mirror and notes that his teeth could be a bit whiter and straighter.

Jack is recognizable, which is why he takes pains not to be noticed.

Jim's photo says "Jack" to me.

And for a movie, Jack would have to have an image that you could imagine Gia would find attractive. They would have to look like they fit together.

Ken V.
You probably right, Ken. I'm posting from Westport, CT this morning and I don't have the books. But don't Jack's customers in every novel think how ordinary he looks? A Generic White Male? And as far as the beautiful Gia being with him, haven't all us guys seen a stunning woman with an hombre whose face only his mother could love, and thought, "Damn!--there's hope for us all!"? Women are funny that way... I just hope the actor who plays Jack does himself proud fitting into the part. That's the most important thing, to my mind.

[Ken Valentine]

You probably right, Ken. I'm posting from Westport, CT this morning and I don't have the books. But don't Jack's customers in every novel think how ordinary he looks?

Yes, but ordinary doesn't mean homely. RJ shouldn't look like Carey Grant, but he shouldn't look like Barney Fife either.

What struck me was how everyone from Alicia Clayton on has the expectation that Jack would be some kind of great hulking brute. The surprise comes when they discover that he's just a regular kinda guy. Not a pretty boy, not a homely goof, not a tough guy, not dashingly handsome, not a fright, just an ordinary nice looking guy.

A Generic White Male? And as far as the beautiful Gia being with him, haven't all us guys seen a stunning woman with an hombre whose face only his mother could love, and thought, "Damn!--there's hope for us all!"? Women are funny that way... I just hope the actor who plays Jack does himself proud fitting into the part. That's the most important thing, to my mind.

No argument Mike. But, in order to be successful, the movie has to appeal to women as well. You don't want the wonderful half of the species to walk out of the theater shaking their heads and thinking to themselves, "GAWD! What incredibly lousy taste Gia has!"
In my view, Jack should look like the kind of guy that the women in the audience wouldn't turn up their noses to if he asked them for a date. They don't have to swoon over him, but you don't want them to say , "Oooh . . . YUK!" either. Just a nice, ordinary looking guy.

I'm sure we both agree that we want this movie to be a stunning financial success.

Right?

'Cuz if it is, there will be sequels made:

Repairman Jack II -- Legacies

Repairman Jack III -- Conspiracies

Repairman Jack IV -- All The Rage

And so on.

The only criticism I have of Jim's new contender is that his sideburns are too long. They will have to be surgically shortened. ;)

Ken V.

[Bluesman Mike Lindner]

Yes, but ordinary doesn't mean homely. RJ shouldn't look like Carey Grant, but he shouldn't look like Barney Fife either.

What struck me was how everyone from Alicia Clayton on has the expectation that Jack would be some kind of great hulking brute. The surprise comes when they discover that he's just a regular kinda guy. Not a pretty boy, not a homely goof, not a tough guy, not dashingly handsome, not a fright, just an ordinary nice looking guy.



No argument Mike. But, in order to be successful, the movie has to appeal to women as well. You don't want the wonderful half of the species to walk out of the theater shaking their heads and thinking to themselves, "GAWD! What incredibly lousy taste Gia has!"
In my view, Jack should look like the kind of guy that the women in the audience wouldn't turn up their noses to if he asked them for a date. They don't have to swoon over him, but you don't want them to say , "Oooh . . . YUK!" either. Just a nice, ordinary looking guy.

I'm sure we both agree that we want this movie to be a stunning financial success.

Right?

'Cuz if it is, there will be sequels made:

Repairman Jack II -- Legacies

Repairman Jack III -- Conspiracies

Repairman Jack IV -- All The Rage

And so on.

The only criticism I have of Jim's new contender is that his sideburns are too long. They will have to be surgically shortened. ;)

Ken V.

Right! But if no one really suitable is found...well, hell, =I'll= play the
role. I have stage experience, no problem there. Movies can't be that different, right? (Haw!--famous last words for many an actor when movies--especially talkies-- came in.) And while I'm dashingly handsome, the make-up and FX crew can deal with that. Only problem is my height--6'2" while Jack is 5'11". So I'd hafta be chopped-off at the ankles. Still, no sacrifice is too great for art. And now I =really= have to get some rest, cuz I'm raving. Manana, shipmate.

[nijimeijer]

'Cuz if it is, there will be sequels made:

Repairman Jack II -- Legacies

Repairman Jack III -- Conspiracies

Repairman Jack IV -- All The Rage

You bring up an interesting question; FPW has mentioned that Beacon hopest his will be a franchise series of movies. Are they really bound that closely to the books that any sequels would definitely be the book order?

In other words; if they were to make, say, three of these, all told, which books do you think are most likely to be adapted? Beacon might even do away with the "Otherness" explanations, and simply have all the weird be X-Files like spo