Tyler Perry In His Own Skin
Tyler Perry has finally taken on a role that doesn’t require him to dress in drag and other ridiculous costumes. Star Trek was the last time we saw Perry in a film without donning Madea’s peppered wig and floral print dresses. This time around, the talented writer, director, and actor will show his dramatic and ass-kicking persona in Alex Cross.
Perry will take on the same role that was once played by Morgan Freeman in Kiss the Girls and Along Came a Spider. Talk about filling out some shoes. This franchise is based on the James Patterson’s popular novel series, and the studio had plans to take the franchise back to the younger days of Cross. Before the production phase started there were talks of Prometheus star Idris Elba playing the detective; however, the role was passed on to Perry.
Fighting Back the Skeptics
Since the announcement, fans have expressed their dissatisfaction with the casting choice. While I’m not a fan of typecasting, I’m sure Perry knew full well the skepticism he would have to face. Career wise, taking the role was probably the best thing he could do. And with the trailer hitting the net today, we get our first glimpse at Perry in an entirely different light. It’s difficult to see Perry as Cross, but he has his moments where you think, “You know, this could really work.” Would it be a completely different story if Perry hadn’t of taken the Madea franchise from the stage and to the big screen? Perhaps. But one must give credit where credit’s due. He has a determination and skill level to succeed. That’s why this film might work.
Is That Matthew Fox?!
Matthew Fox remains another selling point for this film. The man underwent some hardcore training for the role of the serial killer, Picaso. He just about steals the focus as he flips about causing havoc left and right. Rob Cohen (Fast and Furious, xXx) directed the film, so we all know there’ll be several amazing fighting sequences; the director has an eye for adrenaline pumping action. It’s only a matter of time before we discover if Alex Cross will reach the level of Morgan Freeman’s films. Check out the trailer below and let us know what you think.
Directed by Rob Cohen, Alex Cross hits theaters October 19, 2012. The film also stars Edward Burns, John C. McGinley, Jean Reno, and Giancarlo Esposito.
