The Scorecard Review news
News: Australian actor Sam Worthington has used the record-breaking success of Avatar to lock down roles in numerous projects – blockbusters and smaller films alike - and doesn’t appear to be stopping anytime soon. Source: The Hollywood Reporter
Thoughts by TSR: There was a time when I would have scoffed at the mere mention of Sam Worthington. He felt like one of those actors Hollywood is dead set on forcing down our throats. I’m not a fan of Avatar, Terminator: Salvation disappointed, and Clash of the Titans was a disaster. Further, Worthington’s performances in them left a lot to be desired.
That said most of his recent choices leave me with a growing interest in his future. There are still questionable films on his upcoming filmography, like the Clash of the Titans sequel, but he has a handful of films that intrigue me. Last Night released earlier this year. I was pleasantly surprised by both the film and his performance. It’s not earth-shattering, but it hints at something more for the Aussie than being another generic blockbuster star.
You don't have to wait to see his next film, The Debt, because it hits theaters today. I haven’t had a chance to see it yet, but I hope to soon. Jeff Bayer was very positive on both the film and Worthington’s performance, which only boosts the anticipation. Next up is Texas Killing Fields, a crime-drama loosely based on a real life murder. He plays one of the detectives on the case, the other being played by Watchmen’s Jeffrey Dean Morgan. The film is showing at this year’s Venice Film Festival, with its theatrical release set for October 17. Another film I’ve been interested in for a while now is Asger Leth’s Man on a Ledge. The film is about a fugitive who fakes suicide so his brother can complete a heist. It’s set for a 2012 release and co-stars Elizabeth Banks, Jamie Bell and Ed Harris. Finally, Worthington is set to star in Drift, a surfing film centering on two brothers who move to a remote Australian town to begin a new life.
Despite little excitement for Clash of the Titans 2 (due out in early 2012), I do find myself intrigued by most of what Worthington has lined up. If he continues choosing interesting projects I expect I’ll be keeping a close eye on Sam Worthington’s career from here on out.