Sean Penn is set to star in the movie of the book by ex-CIA insider Richard Clarke, Against All Enemies: Inside America's War on Terror and play the lead role, that would be Clarke himself one would assume. The suggestion is that he beat George Clooney and...Russell Crowe for the role. Russell Crowe?

Say what else you like about him, Sean Penn is one of the best actors on screen these days. You just have to watch his 2003 film catalogue to realise that. Mystic River, 21 Grams and the stunning The Assassination of Richard Nixon. Each performance just got better and better, so anything he does these days I'm eager to see and devour.

This has extra appeal, it being the view of the CIA on the American "War on Terror" and all. However I'm surprised at the mention that Penn was low down on the selection list. Considering they have Paul Haggis to write and that they've secured Penn shows they have some clout and budget. So how come they couldn't get Clooney or the bizarre choice of Crowe? Scheduling? You mean this film wouldn't wait for them? I don't think so.

Here's another thing when you announce your lead casting, why do you feel the need to almost apologise in the same breath and announce that we almost had these two guys but this one was down the list? Why not get behind your lead choice? Whatever the reasons for this announcement I'm glad to see Penn connected with such a strong project.