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Clint Eastwood Throws A Curveball, Casts Justin Timberlake

Despite the unpredictable nature of the film industry, I never suspected there would be a clear connection between Clint Eastwood and the Mickey Mouse Club or *Nsync, but as of today, February 1, 2012, that is no longer the case. 

In news that is sure to divide film fans, Justin Timberlake has been cast as the lead role in Clint Eastwood's upcoming baseball movie, “The Trouble with the Curve.”

The star-studded film follows and aging baseball scout (Eastwood) taking one last road trip with his estranged daughter (Amy Adams).  Timberlake will play Eastwood's friend, Johnny Flanagan, a former pitcher turned baseball scout for the New York Yankees.  To add further excitement to the story, Timberlake will also act as the love interest for Adams.

“The Trouble with the Curve” was recently given a September 28 release date, a deliberate positioning to indicate that the film is a potential Oscar candidate.  Timberlake will most likely generate more awards buzz, seeing as he is also due to star in the Coen Brothers’ folk-era drama “Inside Llewyn Daviswith John Goodman.

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Not to diminish his acting ability, which has been quite impressive, Timberlake has a particularly strong appeal when it comes to baseball movies, considering one of his earlier roles as a minor league baseball player in 2009's “The Open Road,” co-starring Jeff Bridges and Kate Mara.  Coincidentally, the plot line of that film finds Timberlake's character going on a road trip with his estranged father.

Although Eastwood’s casting decision is highly contested at the moment, come award season viewers should expect a reversal in critics’ opinions.  Timberlake has truly proven his versatility and skill as an actor with his critically acclaimed and award winning performances in “The Social Network,” “Friends with Benefits,” and “Bad Teacher.”  Furthermore, Eastwood is among the most revered and influential people in the entertainment industry with more than 30 films under his directorial belt – so viewers should trust his decision and get excited for the upcoming film, “The Trouble with the Curve.” 

, Pittsburgh Film Industry Examiner

Ken Syme is a student at the the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University. He spends his free time lifting weights, watching television and movies, and hanging out with his friends. After spending two years editing his school paper and writing a popular movie...

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