Justin = A-Lister?
Created: December 12, 2010 7:27 pm
Justin Timberlake has come a long way from his boyband days. He brought Sexy Back, when I didn’t know that it was 
gone, but it’s nice to know it’s back. He was featured in one of my favorite movies, Southland Tales, as a scarred up Iraq-war veteran. He put his Dick in a Box, and told everyone how much of a Mother Lover he was. And, finally, he got a coveted role as the creator of Napster in The Social Network. Not too shabby, I’m sure he can wipe his ass with $20 bills and not think twice about it. But, can the guy carry a movie on his own?
Yes, he won an Emmy for hosting SNL and he’s proven to be quite hilarious and open to making fun of himself. How often is it that a singer of pop hits can cross-over so successfully, people forget they can sing? Not so fast. We’ve seen Dave Matthew flex the acting chops and The Red Hot Chilli Peppers always show up in a movie. But, which actor out there has had a hugely successful music career and broadened their horizons so large, that they’re Hollywood’s It-Guy? Anyone? I think not.
So, why the gamble? Justin’s proven he’s an actor, he’s proven that he’s got what it takes to be taken serious and yet he hasn’t been pushed into the limelight as actor-only. Well, 2011 marks a change in that arena, Justin has a few films in the works… and he’s the lead. Friends with Benefits stars him and Mila Kunis and it looks pretty friggin’ funny. The romantic comedy genre is one that gets pretty friggin’ boring after the same thing is constantly done over and over. For some reason, this looks pretty snarky. Then, he’s co-starring with his ex-girlfriend, Cameron Diaz, in a sexy dramedy, Bad Teacher. Supposedly this role is a little different, and he’ll be able to show off a cynical side. but that’s not all… Justin is currently shooting a science fiction thriller opposite Amanda Seyfried called Now.
Science fiction, romantic comedy, dark comedy… three genres only a gifted actor can play. Which means the studios behind these films believe Justin knows what he’s doing. So, what is it that makes this guy the ultimate leading man all of a sudden? I, personally think it’s because he’s genuine. Yes, he may have looked like a tool back in the day as a teen heartthrob with corn rows, but he’s never not been himself. Say what you want to about the dude, but he owns his shit. He’s definitely not a slacker and takes his work very seriously.
So, what does the upcoming year and beyond hold up for him? Are there stars aligning, setting the perfect path for Justin to follow? Can these performances push him into the superstardom that so many crave? Or in 20 years, will there be an E! True Hollywood story about the rise and fall of an icon. Secretly, yes, I would like to see that… just kidding. But, you have to admit, this is pretty wild, a kid from a small town, singing his heart out on The Mickey Mouse Club ends up being the biggest star in Hollywood?
I say good for you, Justin. Congratulations on your success and don’t disappoint. And, applause to the studio execs who are willing to take chances and not be scarred off by the numbers game. This truly is a story that should bring hope to all those vying for a shot at making it big, all you need is some persistence, talent and a drive that forces you to never surrends… never quit!
