Casting Fables

This is purely a speculative post, but I don't care, it's so much fun. My brother has recently introduced me to a comic book called Fables, which he was introduced to by his girlfriend. I've read the first few issues in compilation form and I love it. It's a fascinating premise with a unique twist on stories that we all know and love.

The story is essentially that of all of the classic immortal fairy tales, outgrowing their time and their kingdoms and now live in modern day New York City, where Snow White is Deputy (doing all of the actual real work), King Cole is Mayor of the Fables, and the Big Bad Wolf is the Sheriff of Fabletown (which is what they call the building in which the Fables house in New York).

It was such a unique story that riveted me. I was surprised to learn via the internet and Variety that no one hadn't already nabbed up the film rights for such an obvious chance at a huge money maker here and the next big franchise. So I've decided to play producer and get the ball rolling, casting the film with a nice balance of established stars and hot up-and-comings. All this speculation makes me want to start writing a fan script right here and now. Check it out below:

Bigby Wolf (a.k.a. The Big Bad Wolf) - Leonardo DiCaprio










The best character of the comic so far. Bigby needs to be gruff and tough, have the spirit of a rabid Big Bad Wolf, which Leo has done pretty well in recent years in films like The Departed and Blood Diamond. Not to mention, Leo is a good actor.

Snow White - Jennifer Connelly










She's a good actress, gave a very accomplished performance in Requiem for a Dream, and she just looks like she could be Snow White; plus she has some gumption, which Ms. White needs.

Prince Charming - Hugh Jackman










I mean seriously, this one was the biggest no-brainer for me. Hugh Jackman is the cliche charmer who just happens to be a fantastic actor, and I'd love to see him hamming it up as a Prince who lost everything.

Red Rose - Carey Mulligan










After a brilliant performance in An Education and a resulting Oscar nod, there shouldn't be any debate on this one. She's a star of tomorrow.

Red Riding Hood - Abbie Cornish










A model turned actress that exploded out of Cannes last year with tons of Oscar buzz that ultimately wound down once the film, Bright Star, reached the States. Regardless, the film's ability to wow the Cannes panel (which is often considered the hardest judging panel in the world), and her looks, should convince anyone that she should play Red Riding Hood.

Goldilocks - Michelle Williams











If you can get past the Dawson's Creek connection, you'll realize she is a fantastic actress who turned in a very gritty, yet brilliant performance in last year's Wendy & Lucy, which I believe changed the entire course of her career from just Heath Ledger's ex to a legitimate screen actress.

Bluebeard - Common











Don't be fooled by the fact that he's also a rapper. He turned in a fine dramatic performance in American Gangster and was completely awesome in Wanted and Smokin' Aces. He's got the look, the build, and the chops to pull of Bluebeard.

Jack Horner - Chris Evans










A grown-up Jack from Jack and the Giant Beanstalk. Chris Evans is a terrific actor with tons of boyish charm, and I think he could relish in this role.

Boy Blue - Garett Hedlund











The star of the upcoming Tron Legacy and one of the frontrunners for Captain America, he's got the look and the acting ability, of course his casting in this role is a scant possibility if he blows up soon into a star.

Director - Darren Aronofsky (The Fountain, Requiem for a Dream, Pi)
One of the finest filmmakers working in the industry right now. When he's at his best he is bursting with originality and creative ideas, he's just the right guy to tackle such a property.