STATE OF PLAY is a movie that has had some serious problems, both in terms of its screenplay (four writers in six months) and it’s actors (Brad Pitt’s last minute exit, Russell Crowe saving the day).

This film’s been on my radar ever since I heard about Universal picking up the movie rights to the BBC series and I’m amazed it hasn’t completely imploded with all the trouble its had.

Edward Norton, who was set to star as an on-the-up politician embroiled in a murder investigation, has exited the project due to his commitment to LEAVES OF GRASS.

Norton’s replacement looks like it’ll be Ben Affleck, an actor I like a lot and can’t for the life of me understand why he’s had so much abuse thrown at him.

As much as a FIGHT CLUB reunion with Pitt and Norton was exciting I think they’ve finally got the casting for these two roles bang on.

The two key parts in the story are the politician (was Norton, now Affleck) and an investigative journalist (was Pitt, now Crowe). To me Pitt and Norton never quite fit their respective roles. Norton would’ve been more believable as a hard-nosed journo while Pitt has the surface sheen that could make for a believable politician.

I think Crowe and Affleck (whose career rehab must been complete after HOLLYWOODLAND and GONE, BABY, GONE) are better choices for these roles.

Hopefully there are no more hiccups for this film, however should the production lose Crowe (and I wouldn’t rule that out considering this film’s track record) then I suggest moving swiftly to get Matt Damon on board.

source - movieblog ugo