While the European audience has been aware of Javier Bardem for some time, as he's one of their more popular actors, the english-speaking public hasn't heard about him as much. That's about to change.
In Cannes, Bardem has been surprisingly recognized for his work in a film from brothers Joel and Ethan Coen ("Fargo," "The Big Lebowski"). The movie called "No Country for Old Men," is a violent story of a man who kills at random, while trying to get back a briefcase of stolen money. The film attempts to explore what is behind violence and good and evil. It's based upon the novel by Cormac McCarthy.
"I'm a European actor, and I have some problems with violence," Bardem said. "Violence is something I haven't really played very much in movies."
After a meeting with the Coen brothers, he felt better about doing the project.
"Our first talk with Javier was about his qualms," said Ethan Coen. He wanted to make sure we felt the same way (as he did) and that we weren't doing a Chuck Norris movie."
The movie has been welcomed at Cannes, and is one of those being considered to receive the Palme d'Or.
Also starring in the film will be Josh Brolin, playing the character that attempts to steal the cash, and Tommy Lee Jones will play the sheriff that tries to stop the violence which he is having difficulty understanding. Jones plays these types of role great, should be worth watching the film for that reason alone.
The film is scheduled to open in North America in November.
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