British actor Nicholas Hoult recently revealed his astonishment upon learning that Clint Eastwood selected him for the lead role in Juror No 2, an upcoming thriller. Hoult, known for performances in The Menu, Mad Max: Fury Road, and The Favourite, admitted he was surprised Eastwood knew of his work, suspecting, “Surely there's been a mix-up.” In the film, Hoult plays Justin Kemp, a juror who realizes he may have unintentionally caused the death he's now assigned to judge, leading him into a gripping ethical conflict.
Eastwood, whose directorial career has spanned over six decades, praised Hoult, calling him “a true movie star.” The film also features notable stars including J.K. Simmons, Toni Collette, and Kiefer Sutherland. However, Warner Bros. announced only a limited release for Juror No 2, showing it in under 50 theaters across the U.S. despite its $30 million budget, sparking speculation about its distribution strategy.
This project is likely Eastwood's final film, adding an emotional weight to its production. Fans can watch Juror No 2 in select theaters starting November 1.
Hoult's casting showcases Clint Eastwood's continued eye for talent and his unique ability to draw unexpected performances from actors. It's refreshing to see Hoult in a more complex, morally ambiguous role, and Eastwood's admiration of the cast adds a layer of prestige to the project. However, Warner Bros.' choice to limit the release seems curious, given the film's star power and significant budget. This restriction might limit its immediate impact but could generate interest for a wider release later.
Do you think Juror No 2 should have a wider release? How might limited distribution affect the film's success?
