Two years ago, Darren Aronofsky’s The Fountain bombed miserably at the Venice Film Festival. Then it was unceremoniously dumped into theaters a few weeks after Casino Royale and Happy Feet.

Where most men would have cowered and never come back, Aronofsky picked himself up and directed The Wrestler, which, like his 2006 effort, had to deal with a casting carousel. First Nic Cage was attached, but he later dropped out. Then came the most unlikeliest of stars: Mickey Rourke.

And if we are to believe the buzz in Venice, it seems like it could have been the most inspired casting of the year. There are those who believe Rourke’s performance is worthy of Oscar’s attention.

Last 5 posts by Travis Leamons

• Final Poster for The Losers - March 9th, 2010
• Liam Hemsworth Cast in Arabian Nights - March 9th, 2010
• Liv Tyler and Patrick Wilson Sign on The Ledge - March 9th, 2010
• Inside Pulse Box Office Report: Alice in Wonderland Sets New Record for March - March 7th, 2010
• Alice in Wonderland - Review - March 6th, 2010