Playing the King of Cool

Speaking of Steve McQueen, Variety reports that a biopic about the “King of Cool” is currently in the works. The movie will be based on the biography Steve McQueen: Portrait of an American Rebel by Marshall Terrill and it will primarily focus on McQueen’s Hollywood career, which made him a bonafide action star in films like Bullitt, The Great Escape and Papillon. It will also feature his three marriages, including his rocky relationship with Love Story actress Ali McGraw. Other juicy tidbits also sure to be included: McQueen’s offscreen love of motorcycles, fast cars and drugs, and his battle against lung cancer (He died in 1980, at the age of 50).

Personally, a McQueen biopic wouldn’t be at the top of my list of movies that must get made now. (For me, he’s always overshadowed and outshined by Mr. Paul Newman). But it should be interesting nonetheless to see who they cast in the lead. There’s already been some online speculation. Let’s rate the potential candidates.

Some think Daniel Craig would be up to the task, and it’s true there is a resemblance. Plus, Craig has some serious training on the art of being “cool” thanks to his James Bond role.

Entertainment Weekly suggested Damian Lewis, of NBC’s Life. And they’re right, the resemblance is uncanny. But does he have the acting chops to carry a big movie?

And yet another site threw Cam Gigandet’s name out there. He played evil vampire James in Twilight and showed his intense side, but he seems a bit young for the part of McQueen. To be fair, he does share McQueen’s lightbulb-shaped head and rebellious spirit.

Who’s my pick? I’m gonna go with Craig. According to Starpulse.com, Craig’s already got the approval of McQueen’s widow, Barbara. Got any more suggestions? Feel free to comment below!