Jack Nicholson Sought To Play Robert Downey Jr.'s Dad In 'The Judge'

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by Kevin Jagernauth
November 13, 2012 10:35 PM
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Between comic book movies, tentpole blockbusters, and big name comedies, it's easy to forget that Robert Downey Jr. has other projects that don't have the Marvel stamp, require him to bromance with Jude Law, or laugh it up with Todd Phillips. And one of those gigs is "The Judge," announced this spring. But of course, being RDJ, a big name is being sought to share the screen with him.

THR reports that none other than Jack Nicholson is being courted to play RDJ's Dad in the movie. The long developing dramedy has already passed through a few screenings, including "The King's Speech" scribe David Seidler (and most recently given a new draft by Bill Dubuque). The story centers on a big time lawyer who returns home after his mother dies, only to learn that his Alzheimer's stricken father—who happens to be the judge—is a suspect. Working to get to the bottom of the case gives him the opportunity to reconnect with his family. Sounds a bit weepy.

Of course, whether or not Nicholson will take the role remains to be seen. He's picky, 75 years old and really doesn't get on a movie set unless it's for a compelling reason (though that still doesn't explain "The Bucket List"). So don't count your chickens yet. However, RDJ is a high wattage co-star, Nicholson has a good relationship with Warner Bros., so odds are better than usual, but again, not guaranteed. We reckon it'll be up to David Dobkin ("Wedding Crashers," "The Change-Up") making a helluva pitch.

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