Sneak Peek: 'Narnia' Prince Ben Barnes does 'Dorian Gray'
We have an early peek at hunky Ben Barnes (a.k.a. Prince Caspian of "Narnia") as Dorian Gray.
He's playing the eternally gorgeous title character in "Dorian Gray," a new adaptation of Oscar Wilde's creepy gothic classic novel, "The Picture of Dorian Gray." I think we all know how this will end.
First published in 1890 and considered a timeless work of literature, the novel's theme still works on so many levels, given our cultural obsession with youth, beauty, sex, wealth and celebrity, and the darkness and problems that accompany the seeking of these things.
Here's the scoop: A beautiful, naïve young man is introduced to the hedonist pleasures of London by a charismatic mentor (played by Colin Firth). When an artist paints a portrait of Dorian, capturing the power of his youth and beauty, Dorian makes a flippant oath: He swears to give anything - even his immortal soul - to always looks as young and handsome as he does in the picture.
Totally bad idea. Just ask Joan Rivers.
Dorian's life in the fast lane goes on, but he is haunted by his portrait, now tucked away in the attic, which is changing, growing more ugly and debauched while his own face remains beautiful, unmarred by time, drink, drugs and evil deeds.
I can hardly wait for this one. Barnes is perfect for this role. The only other actor I could have imagined as Dorian Gray would be Robert Pattinson, who's starring in the upcoming "Twilight." (See our video interview with Pattinson, "Boxers or briefs?" from Comic-Con.)
The film, which just started shooting in London also stars Ben Chaplin, Rebecca Hall ("Vicky Cristina Barcelona"), Fiona Shaw ("Harry Potter") Rachel Hurd-Wood ("Perfume"), Johnny Harris ("The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus," "Atonement").
Photo: Colin Firth and Ben Barnes in "Dorian Gray"
courtesy of DDA/photographer Giles Keyte
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I'd have preferred Pattinson in the role as he;s a better actor. Barnes is a bit of a lightweight. He didnt impress in Prince Caspian at all.
I really wish Robert Pattinson was playing the role. He has far more screen presence than Ben Barnes. Banres had terrible reviews for the last Narnia film and it was well justified.
While I'm sure Ben will be great...this is definitely a role I too would have loved to have seen Rob [Pattinson] portray.
It's just the type of deep and diverse character that Robert would blow our minds with, being the phenomenal actor he's proven himself to be.
In the meantime, I can look forward to Roberts' roles of Art in 'How To Be' and Salvador Dali in 'Little Ashes.' I'm looking forward to these two films of Rob's even more so than the much hyped 'Twilight.' I would enjoy him in anything, though. Robert Pattinson can express more emotion with just one look, than some can express in a lifetime!
I think Rob Pattinson would have given a much more interesting take on Gray than the rather bland Ben Barnes. Barnes doesnt excite me. He may have pretty boy poster looks but his acting hasnt grabbed me so far. Pattinson would have been a far more exciting choice.
Rob Pattinson would have been perfect. Such a shame its not him. I wasnt fussed on Barnes in Chronicles of Narnia Prince Caspian. He's not in Pattinson's league. He doesnt have Pattinson's charisma either. Pattinson radiates sex appeal.
Glad I'm not alone in thinking Pattinson would have been a far more exciting choice. I hope because he's now based in LA it wont mean that British directors overlook him for roles. Gray is a sexy role and Barnes doesnt have that WOW factor. Rob is sex on legs. A more dangerous actor. Barnes is a boring unimaginative pick.
I think Robert Pattinson would have been wonderful in the role, he certainly has the talent and depth to portray many different characters, as we've seen! As for now, I am excited to see a little more of his range with the upcoming movies How to Be and Little Ashes, as well as the much hyped Twilight. Everyone should keep an eye out for him!
I agree with the Robert Pattinson part. However, just like Twilighters were initially abhorrent of Pattinson himself playing the part of Edward, I believe we should all give Barnes the benefit of the doubt. He may be able to pull this off. Plus, I believe the accent in Narnia was not pulled off well, either. We shall see....
Good luck to Barnes but to date his performances have been lack lustre. His Prince Caspian was particularly lifeless.
Rob Pattinson would have excited me a heck of a lot more. A far more versatile and dynamic actor.
Dishrag I also thought Pattinson would have made a wonderful Dorian Gray and I'm very disappinted to see the very average boy band Barnes has the role.
What a missed opportunity. I'd have loved to see have seen Pattinson's take on the debauched role.