Dreamworks’ Need For Speed adaptation has picked up a former Batman for a supporting role, and we’re not talking about Val Kilmer or George Clooney. That’s right folks, Michael Keaton has hopped on board the eagerly awaited production.
Need For Speed has already claimed such names as Aaron Paul and Kid Cudi, with an equally talented Dominic Cooper also in the mix. The Hollywood Reporter claims Michael Keaton will play “a reclusive and eccentric host of an underground super car race where he invites the best drivers from around the world.”
Need For Speed‘s storyline follows Aaron Paul’s aspiring street-racer who partners up with a wealthy partner played by Cooper. He’s eventually framed by his partner, resulting in a spell behind bars. After his release, he joins a New York to Los Angeles road race (talk about rehabilitation, huh?) to get even. Cooper’s character learns of this plan, and puts a bounty on his head to up the stakes.
Michael Keaton‘s involvement will be quite welcome. He’s already proven his eccentricity doesn’t have to be taken seriously with such films as The Other Guys and Toy Story 3 as well as a brief stint on 30 Rock. Whether or not Need For Speed will do the same thing with Michael Keaton has yet to be disclosed. But for a film based on a video game, one can hope Need For Speed doesn’t feel it necessary to take itself too seriously.
Need For Speed isn’t set to hit theaters until Feb 2014. The Scott Waugh helmed film has fanboys and longtime video game fans alike reeling with excitement. It’s also nice to see Aaron Paul gaining the attention he deserves (and not as a sex starved villain as seen in The Last House on the Left). Be sure to check back for updates.
