The Scene

Justin Timberlake as Elton John?

Published on Wednesday, January 04 2012
Written by Tallie Johnson

It looks like Elton John wants to bring his sexy back. 

If John has his way, Justin Timberlake will be playing him in a biopic about his life. The eccentric singer has named Timberlake his number one choice.  

Timberlake has some experience getting into character as Elton John, after all he played John in the 2001 music video of “The Train Don’t Stop Here Anymore” But a quick music video is not the same as a full-length movie. John wants the biopic not just spewing out facts about his life, but more in the surreal style of Moulin Rouge. Timberlake is a naturally talented singer, performer, and piano player. That doesn’t always translate into brilliant acting and the total embodiment of another person. He’s proven he has comedy chops on “Saturday Night Life,” and there were endearing moments in Bad Teacher. But we are talking about a musical icon; so strong actors have to be taken into consideration.

But having someone who can already sing is a promising start. Here are my top picks of other actors who should also be considered.

Daniel Radcliffe: Yes, Harry Potter. He can carry a movie. He has proven he can really sing by performing on Broadway, and he is a talented actor. He wants to move beyond the Potter image, and this role will certainly do that.

Chris Colfer: Sure he is a bit young, but he has a phenomenal voice and presence. In a Moulin Rouge-style story that is more than factual, he could bring certain flair to the story. It’s natural  -- "Glee" does this every show.

Ryan Gosling: He has to be thrown into every casting decision. He too was in the Mickey Mouse Club, which is known for producing singers. Videos of him singing are floating around the 'net, and he can blow! He is a natural leading man and it would be fun to see him move beyond action films and drama to a musical.

It’s hard to not pick Timberlake if that is what Elton John wants, but let’s not forget about other multi-talented actors who could breathe life into this role. After all, we are talking about the man who wrote “Circle of Life,” so this decision cannot be taken lightly.

 

- Tallie Johnson, YH Staff