10 Riskiest Upcoming Casting Choices (And Why They Will Work)

The Risk

There is no doubt that Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s acting stock has risen fairly dramatically in the last few years. Despite this, the role of infamous French tightrope walker Philippe Petit, previously featured in critically acclaimed documentary Man on Wire, doesn’t exactly scream JGL’s name.

For reasons both of nationality and appearance, the flame-haired, weathered daredevil Petit and notorious pretty-boy Gordon-Levitt just seem ill fit. Why not a French actor? Why so glamorous? In a film already carrying the weight of the incredible true story and its hugely praised 2008 documentary, is JGL’s casting, considered somewhat awkward, something of a risk?

The Reward

Gordon-Levitt has, in a relatively small number of years, managed to break the mould and provide strong indications as to his acting versatility. From self-absorbed cynic Tom in (500) Days of Summer, action star in The Dark Knight Rises, proto-Bruce Willis in Looper, and fugitive whistle-blower in the upcoming Snowden, impressive range has been thrust in behind that trademark smirk.

In the case of Philippe Petit, JGL may not be the best look or sound-a-like, but in encompassing the sheer exuberance and daredevil spirit of the great man, he has the natural personality and characteristic aura to make his iteration of the character succeed. 

Certainly, the Inception star’s scene-stealing performance in Nolan’s famous corridor scene suggests Gordon-Levitt is more than comfortable with the sort of high concept, vertigo inducing stunt work The Walk will undoubtedly require.