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2.13.2012

jeremy lin: the movie?



Okay. I admit the headline is misleading. To my knowledge, there is no big budget Hollywood JLin movie in the works. But what if there was? The legend of Jeremy Lin is so red hot right now, I wouldn't be surprised if his inspirational underdog story has piqued the interest of a Hollywood studio exec or two.

I only mention it because of this article: Jeremy Lin: The true Hollywood story of the Knick sensation who's taken over New York in less than a week.

Specifically, this quote from Steve Tisch, co-owner of the New York Giants, who has also produced several critically-acclaimed and award-winning films:
"He’s the Victor Cruz of the NBA," says Steve Tisch, the Giants’ co-owner, standing by his courtside seat. "What a story."

Tisch, who produced the Academy Award-winning film "Forrest Gump," was asked if Lin’s unlikely rise to stardom could translate to film.

"There are possibilities," Tisch says. "Can Will Smith or Tom Cruise play him?"
Oh, hell no. He's joking, of course. But it does get you thinking. Who would star in the hypothetical Jeremy Lin Movie? My imagination immediately goes to the worst case scenario: they cast a white actor. It sounds completely outrageous but we all know there's precedent. That's all I'm saying.

No, wait. Let me say this. One day, if someone makes a movie inspired by Jeremy Lin's life and career, and somebody gets it into their head to cast a white actor in the title role, I promise to personally lead the riot against that studio. I will drive to Home Depot to buy a pitchfork and head up the angry mob myself.

And that's all I'm saying.