With “Punch Drunk Love,” Paul Thomas Anderson managed to find the dark, vulnerable core at the center of Adam Sandler‘s schtick and turn it into something memorable, compelling and unique. Can he do the same for Owen Wilson‘s shaggy, goofy, lovable, slacker/surfer vibe?
We’ll find out, as the actor has been cast in “Inherent Vice,” joining the already exciting cast of Joaquin Phoenix and Benicio Del Toro. Based on the book by Thomas Pynchon and set in 1970s Los Angeles, the story follows inept, pot-smoking private detective Doc Sportello (Phoenix) as he investigates the case of a kidnapped girl, who also happens to be one of his ex-girlfriends. Del Toro will play Sportello’s lawyer/legal counsel, while Wilson’s role is being kept secret for now, but he’s apparently one of the leads. Is it possible he’s playing the other cop who’s always busting Sportello’s balls? It would be against type, but certainly inspired. Update: Cigarettes & Red Vines reveal that Wilson will be playing musician Coy Harlingen.
Speculate below. Production begins later this month. [The Wrap]