It looks like Kumail Nanjiani is going to show us his dramatic side in the upcoming film, “The True American,” co-starring opposite Mark Ruffalo. According to The Tracking Board, Nanjiani and Ruffalo will soon sign on to star in the drama, which is directed by Pablo Larraín.
“The True American” is based on the nonfiction book titled “The True American: Murder and Mercy in Texas,” which takes place in the days following 9/11 and is about a Muslim immigrant (Nanjiani), who survived a deadly hate crime, and is now advocating for mercy on behalf of his attacker (Ruffalo). The film will be helmed by Larraín, who is perhaps best known for his 2016 film, “Jackie.”
Originally, “The True American” was to be directed by Kathryn Bigelow, with Tom Hardy and Riz Ahmed starring. However, that is no longer the case, but Bigelow is staying on board as a producer, alongside Annapurna’s Megan Ellison and Matthew Budman.
Nanjiani has recently made quite the name for himself as co-writer and star of last year’s “The Big Sick.” He is also one of the stars of the HBO comedy series “Silicon Valley.” The comedian is best know for his comedic parts, obviously. It’ll be interesting to see the actor flex his dramatic chops in “The True American.”
Mark Ruffalo is, of course, Bruce Banner, aka the Incredible Hulk, in numerous Marvel Studios films. However, he’s also known for his work in “Foxcatcher,” “The Kids Are All Right,” “Shutter Island,” and “Zodiac.” So yeah, he’s not just a scientist who turns into a big, green, rage monster.
No word on when production will start on “The True American.”