America’s First Family of the animation world already came to the big screen in 2007 and was a huge box office success, but what would things look like if a live action film version of The Simpsons was to hit theatres? We’ve come up with a fantasy casting list so you don’t have to wonder no more…
1. John C. Reilly as Homer Simpson
Paul Giamatti would be a close second choice, but Reilly wins out with his ability to capture “stupid” in such a doltish, lovable manner. But despite his low IQ (if only it weren’t for that crayon!), Homer is still very believable as a devoted father and husband, and if you think Reilly can’t pull that off, you haven’t seen Chicago.
2. Leslie Mann as Marge Simpson
She may not have quite the “unique” voice that Marge has charmed us with over the past quarter of a century, but she sure does have just the right blend of dorky mom humor and hotness that is Homer’s better half.
3. Preston Bailey as Bart Simpson
Only the kid who played serial killer Dexter Morgan’s step-son could master the cool, likeable menace of “El Barto”.
4. Rowan Blanchard as Lisa Simpson
This star of Girl Meets World would have to go blonde and spikey for the role, but few other young actresses could tackle Lisa’s brilliance.
5. Robert De Niro as “Grampa” Abe Simpson
Robert’s comedic timing would be perfect for Grampa Simpson’s unintentional one-liners and frequent forays into nonsensical banter. Plus, he’d look great in a bolo tie.
6. Clint Eastwood as Mr. Burns
Eastwood may be far from frail, but his intimidating demeanor and voice are perfect for playing Springfield’s richest and most evil citizen.
7. Ty Simpkins as Nelson Muntz
Only the kid from the Insidious movies would be able to accurately portray the bully, tortured soul, and occasional somewhat decent friend that Nelson Muntz has become.
8. William H. Macy as Ned Flanders
Seriously, who else could you imagine nailing Ned’s “Hi-diddly-ho neighborino!” friendly yet annoying charm? Besides, Macy’s already got the look down pat.
9. Kal Penn as Apu Nahasapeemapetilon
Sure, Apu is a blatant stereotype, but so are a lot of Simpsons characters. In fact, the offensive-yet-somehow-lovable stereotypes are part of what make the show so great. Having said that, Apu happens to have one of the more complex storylines of the side characters, and there’s an underlying bite to him that often yields comedy gold. On that, Penn could certainly deliver.
10. Blake Garrett Rosenthal as Milhouse van Houten
This “Mom” star and “Bridesmaids” actor can do the perfect mixture of nerdy and patheticness that is Bart’s best friend. Oh, and he already comes with glasses.
11. Steve Buscemi as Moe Szyslak
Moe is a funny looking guy, and so is Buscemi. But what makes this casting choice so perfect is Buscemi’s incredible acting range. He can be funny and friendly one minute and deadly serious and threatening the next, which is exactly the type of guy Springfield’s infamous bartender is.
12. Jack Nicholson as Krusty the Clown
Krusty is a pretty krappy excuse for a clown, but he does somehow manage to make the kiddies laugh. Think of a slightly lighter version of Nicholson’s portrayal of The Joker and there you have it.
13. Kevin Smith as Comic Book Guy
A true comic nerd himself, Smith would be the perfect choice both physically (shave his hairline back, remove the glasses and viola!) and personality-wise.
14. Arnold Schwarzenegger as Rainier Wolfcastle
If you need an explanation for this one, you haven’t seen the show. Arnold Schwarzenegger has Rainer’s built, hair and face down to a T!
And as a bonus, Hans Moleman would be portrayed by none other than the American treasure that is Danny Devito. And of course, an unknown baby prodigy would play Maggie.
Who do you think would be perfect for a live action Simpsons movie? Tell us in the comments below…
5 Responses
What about Fat Tony?
Gary Oldman, in his role as Commissioner Gordon in the Batman films was, in my honest opinion, a perfect Ned Flanders!
Mr Burns, …It’d have to be Ian McDiarmid(aka Palpatine/Emperor from Star Wars) for sure!!
Not sure what possessed you to suggest Eastwood for the role, …John C. Reilly for Homer and Will H. Macy for Flanders seem like pretty decent picks though.
Rowan Blanchard is nineteen years old, Lisa Simpson is eight years old, I would pick a different actress to play Lisa
Well, that amazing Rufus Sewell would be an incredible Sideshow Bob.
He has the type of hair, the sinister eyes and even the shape of his mouth totally similar to that of S. Bob.