So, the “Rock Of Ages” train continues to roll, bringing on more passengers as it gears up to start filming very soon.
The week kicks off with a couple more additions to the already huge cast of the ’80s rock fueled musical. First up, Russell Brand — who has been rumored to be joining forever — is in “final negotiations” which probably means he’ll be confirmed later this weekend (hopefully before “Arthur” opens and everyone reconsiders). If rumors are correct, he’ll take on the role of Lonnie in the film who runs the ‘80s rock club The Bourbon, owned by Dennis (the role Alec Baldwin will be playing). Meanwhile, Mexican singer and actor Diego Boneta has been confirmed for the role of nice guy and aspiring rocker Drew Boley with Adam Shankman comparing him to Channing Tatum in “Step Up” and Zac Efron in “Hairspray.” Seriously.
In case you forgot, Paul Giamatti will have the unenviable task of managing the band fronted by Stacee Jaxx (Tom Cruise) in the story about Sherrie (Julianne Hough), the small town girl who travels to Los Angeles with dreams of making it big and falls in love. Mary J. Blige co-stars in the role of Justice Charlier, the owner of the Sunset Strip’s exotic dance venue the Venus Club, while Amy Adams is being sought for the role of the journalist who profiles Jaxx, sings with and then ends up in bed with him. Though her recent casting in “Superman” might throw that casting into doubt, the part is apparently more or less an extended cameo so it’ll probably be up to scheduling.
“Rock Of Ages” will begin shooting in Florida next month and will hit theaters on June 1, 2012. [The Wrap/Variety]
