https://thegrapevine.theroot.com/the-peoples-eyeroll-dwayne-johnsons-casting-as-john-he-1829650189 Apparently the Rock isn't black enough to play this part? How do these people go through life thinking like this?
This just happened a couple of years ago when Zoe Saldana played Nina Simone in a bio-pic. I remember reading some of the complaints on Facebook and "open letters" to her. She went ahead and did the movie but it didn't get much love from the press. https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/zoe-saldana-responds-nina-controversy-904231
One reason not to have Dwayne as the main character in this movie is that he's not a good serious actor. Also, if it's a historical film, it seems that "mega star" actors shouldn't play those roles, at least imho. As in, I don't want the Rock playing Obama in the Obama bio pic. Not due to his complexion (tho both are of "mixed" race lineage), but because it becomes a movie that people watch because of him and not because of the story.
I'd say that the people spending 100 million dollars to make a movie can choose Roseanne Barr to play John Henry if they see fit. Don't like it don't watch it. Simple
Whether DJ is a serious actor or not remains to be seen, as he's never been cast in a role that provided the opportunity. Given his undeniable success as an actor, it seems a stretch to doubt his ability. OJ would be a more appropriate actor to play Obama.
Interesting suggestion. To be honest, Orlando Jones isn't really the first name I would come up with to portray Obama, but I'd be curious to see how he'd do.
Getting Orlando Jones to play Obama is like getting Sam Rockwell to play George W. They can play the roll, and probably very well, but there will always be the tinge of comedy simply because of who they are. So the tone of the film probably wouldn't be that serious.
Agreed. Was just trying to come up with an "OJ" that would fit Maris' statement. The only other actor I could come up with is O'Shea Jackson, but he's still much, much too young.
This is why I wish Hollywood would be more adventurous with their casting. Find new talent. The comedy industry has been horrible for years. They will only make movies if an established star is attached, so we don't get any new blood. I'm so tired of Adam Sandler, Will Ferrell, etc. They need to find some new people. I'm sure there's a perfectly good actor out there who could play Obama, but hasn't had a big break yet. Someone like Idris Elba.
Probably the most obvious possible option. I saw several people suggesting Mike Colter (plays Luke Cage); seems like a good fit as well.
