It has long been whispered that Jim Caviezel (he of The Passion, and The Count of Monte Christo) have been rumored to be a front runner for the coveted role. Is there any truth to the buzz? The IESB interviewed J.C. to get the scoop on exactly what his role has been in the search for the next son of Krypton.

"I have had no direct, face to face talks with Bryan Singer. All talking has been done through mediators," Caviezel told the IESB. As to whether or not he would like to try to be the Man of Steel, "It appeals to me a great deal, but I haven't seen a script yet. I like to play iconic characters, and I see the role of Superman as a big responsibility. Playing Superman would be a great challenge. With such a big character, it's sink or swim, so you definitely want to have a great director with you. That's why, when I'm approaching these roles, I like to work with great directors like Mel Gibson and Bryan Singer."

Caviezel is definitely a fan of the original movies. When asked who his favorite version of the Man Of Steel has been, "Christopher Reeve is the greatest Superman ever in my mind. The original movies transcend what is common in film because they mix comedy and drama so well.

Ned Beatty and Gene Hackman are good villains for the same reason," Caviezel said.Is it a good idea to revisit the franchise? "You've got to believe in your talent because you're going in to rebuild an idea that's already been visited. It's like comparing the 1991 Chicago Bulls to the 2001 Los Angeles Lakers or Jim Brown to Walter Payton. It's not like it has not been done before, but that doesn't mean that it can't be done again, and done well."Many have scoffed at the idea of Caviezel as Kal-el, but having met the man, IESB submits this thought: what did you think when you'd first heard Michael Keaton was cast as Batman? Didn't sound very plausible at the time, but it turned out to be a great gamble and the best study of the character to date. Having met the man, Caviezel owns an intensity that's uncanny, while still retaining a farmboy sensitivity that's compelling in its own way.

Is it necessary to revisit the franchise? Jim has definite and strong feelings on the
subject."We do need to revisit the character because of what Superman symbolizes for America. "And what does Superman symbolize? Truth, Justice and the American Way. Considering what the world's been going through lately, one could argue it's never needed Superman more.