James Franco is tooling up quite the eclectic CV these days, and in between blockbusters, indie dramas and, er, soap opera (no, really), he’s also finding time for another new comedy role in Ricky Stanicky, which Twilight team Summit is planning to finance.
Deadline reports that he’ll play the titular role in the film, which sees two best mates inventing a fake friend who provides the perfect excuse for whenever they need time away from their wives. Trouble is, their other halves decide they want to meet this mysterious mate at an upcoming party, leading to a desperate scramble to find someone. Cue them hiring an actor (Franco) to fill the role.
While it’s definitely a high concept comedy idea, and our Panic Radar is beeping upon hearing that Beverly Hills Chihuahua writer Jeff Bushell is behind the script, we’ve got more faith in Franco’s taste. Yes, we know he cameoed in Date Night. And starred in Flyboys. And stayed in Spider-Man right through the third one. But he’s also one of Judd Apatow’s most reliable performers and has been working with Danny Boyle on the amazing-sounding true-life climbing accident drama 127 Hours.
In summary, we’ll wait until we learn about his co-stars and director before we make any snap judgements. Occasionally, we are callous and strange.