Casting call

How about a completely useless post? Okay, here's one. Ever think about who might play you in the motion picture story of your life? Well maybe not. But I did the other day in one of those free-associative mind things that sometimes hit me on the long drive to and from work. So if I were ever given any input into the decision, here's who you might see on the big screen portraying the one and only Monty Baldwin. In no particular order of course - these guys all have egos, after all!

1. Michael Keaton. I remember back in the days when Michael Keaton was considered a comedic actor. And several people chuckling when they heard he was cast as Batman, thinking it would be a comedy like the 1960s television series. But Batman and other projects have proved taht Keaton can handle drama as well as comedy. Perfectly suited to portray the dark side of Monty. Which of course there isn't one. Unless the scriptwriter takes some "artistic license", if you know what I mean.

2. Tom Hanks. I remember back in the days when Tom Hanks was considered a comedic actor. And several people chuckling when they heard he was cast as an AIDS patient. Hey, that sounds familiar! But I do remember Tom back in the days of Bosom Buddies, Splash, and yes, even Dragnet. He can perfectly balance the comedy and drama so present in everyday life.

3. Harrison Ford. Okay, not so much as before. But the guy was Han Solo AND Indiana Jones AND Jack Ryan, so that still gives him some credit, although he hasn't done all that much since then. But maybe he still has that certain something in him if the right story comes along.

4. Jeremy Irons. Okay, so the main thing I like about him is his voice. But hey, he gave a killer performance in The Man in the Iron Mask, so that makes him okay in my book.

5. Tony Shaloub. Anyone that can play Adrian Monk so convincingly can surely come up with a good portrayal of me. After all, I don't have nearly that many problems.

6. Antonio Banderas. Okay, so I'm not Spanish. But I have always seen myself as dashing and debonair. Just like Zorro. Except maybe not has handy with a sword.

7. Sean Connery. Why not? Okay, so there's a bit of an age difference. But did you see what all he could do in League of Extraordinary Gentlemen? Besides, I do have more than a little Scottish ancestry. And besides, we have the same hairline!

So watch for The Life and Times of Monty Baldwin, coming to a theater near you. If for no other reason than to see who gets top billing!