Wrestling fans have been comparing John Cena to The Rock for years. It’s possible movie fans will soon be doing the same thing, as Cena is seemingly the latest wrestler-turned-actor to make a splash in Hollywood, and after a bunch of scene-stealing appearances in comedy films, now seems to be taking roles away from The Rock (Dwayne Johnson).
He’s reportedly in talks to play the lead in Duke Nukem, which is to be based on on the popular video game franchise which features a cigar-wielding action hero who fights aliens to save planet Earth.
There is currently no writer or director attached, but the film is being produced by Michael Bay‘s Platinum Dunes, which means Bay himself may be in a position to direct if he wants to. Reportedly though, securing Cena is the first step, as the screenplay will then be tweaked to suit Cena’s sensibilities.
Cena is a great choice for the role – he’s about as close to the physical embodiment of a video game hero as you can get – and it would be interesting to see if he could turn his wrestling charisma into action hero charisma. He’s already become a bit of a breakout star thanks to roles in Amy Schumer‘s Trainwreck, Sisters, and Daddy’s Home, and will also star in sex comedy Blockers later this year.
Whether Duke Nukem can turn into the first truly great video game movie is something we’re a long way off from knowing – let’s wait and see who else gets attached and who is behind the camera. But, considering Cena’s burgeoning popularity in Hollywood, this is off to a good start.
#Peace.Love.DukeNukem
