Domhnall Gleeson: From Stapler Comedian to Gritty Newsman? The Paper Trailer Remake

Aug 08, 2025

Domhnall Gleeson and 'The Paper': An Unexpected Casting Choice?

Domhnall Gleeson, an actor known for his versatility ranging from comedic roles in 'About Time' to villainous turns in 'Star Wars,' has become a prominent figure in contemporary cinema. The question is, could he credibly step into the shoes of a harried New York City newspaper editor in a remake of 'The Paper' trailer? This article delves into the plausibility of Gleeson taking on such a role, analyzing his strengths, potential challenges, and the overall appeal of the concept.

'The Paper': A Brief Overview

'The Paper,' directed by Ron Howard and released in 1994, offers a frantic, fast-paced glimpse into the lives of journalists working at a New York City tabloid. The original trailer perfectly captures the chaotic energy of a newsroom under pressure, driven by deadlines, ethical dilemmas, and the constant pursuit of a scoop. Michael Keaton's portrayal of Henry Hackett, the managing editor, is central to the film's success. He embodies the conflicted nature of the character - a dedicated journalist torn between his career and his personal life.

Why Domhnall Gleeson? Analyzing His Acting Range

While immediately picturing Gleeson in the frantic, stressed-out role of a tabloid editor might not be intuitive, a closer look at his filmography reveals a surprising range that makes him a compelling contender. Here’s a breakdown of his key attributes:

Versatility: Gleeson has showcased impressive range, seamlessly transitioning between genres. From the romantic lead in 'About Time' to the cold and calculating General Hux in 'Star Wars,' he demonstrates the ability to inhabit diverse characters.
Dramatic Depth: Films like 'Ex Machina' and 'Brooklyn' highlight his capacity for nuanced and emotionally resonant performances. He can convey inner turmoil and complex motivations effectively.
Comedic Timing: While 'The Paper' isn't a straight-up comedy, it incorporates dark humor and moments of levity. Gleeson's comedic talents, evident in films like 'Frank' and 'The Little Stranger', could add an interesting layer to the character.
Intensity and Drive: Gleeson can project a focused intensity when required. This is crucial for portraying the driven, deadline-obsessed nature of a newspaper editor.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite his versatility, there are potential challenges to consider if Gleeson were to tackle a role similar to Henry Hackett:

American Accent: Gleeson is Irish, and mastering a convincing New York accent would be essential. While many actors have successfully crossed this hurdle, it requires dedicated effort and coaching.
Physicality: Keaton brought a certain frenetic energy to the role, both physically and verbally. Gleeson would need to capture that same sense of urgency and restlessness.
Typecasting: Gleeson has been somewhat typecast as a quirky or villainous character. Stepping into a more grounded and relatable role could be a challenge to break free from existing audience perceptions.

The Appeal of a Remake (or Reimagining)

While a full-blown remake of 'The Paper' might not be necessary, reimagining the trailer with a different actor and a contemporary lens could be a fascinating exercise. Here's why:

Relevance of Journalism: In an era of fake news and digital media, the themes explored in 'The Paper' – journalistic integrity, the pressure to deliver sensational stories, and the role of the press in society – are more relevant than ever.
Updated Technology: A modern take could incorporate the challenges and opportunities presented by the internet, social media, and 24-hour news cycles.
Exploring Ethical Dilemmas: The ethical dilemmas faced by journalists in 'The Paper' are timeless. A remake could delve deeper into these issues, exploring the complexities of reporting in a polarized world.

Gleeson's Potential Take on Henry Hackett: A Deeper Dive

Let's imagine Gleeson embodying Henry Hackett. How would he approach the character, and what unique qualities would he bring to the role?

Adding Nuance and Complexity

Gleeson's strength lies in portraying characters with internal conflicts. He could emphasize the moral struggles of a journalist torn between personal ambition and ethical responsibility. He could portray the character as someone who is deeply conflicted, wrestling with the consequences of his decisions.

Bringing a Sense of Humor

While Keaton's Hackett was often stressed and frantic, Gleeson could inject a dry, sardonic humor into the role. This would add a layer of complexity and make the character more relatable. Think of a weary, world-wise journalist who uses humor as a coping mechanism.

Focusing on the Human Cost

Gleeson could also emphasize the human cost of journalism. He could portray the emotional toll that the job takes on Hackett, highlighting the sacrifices he makes in his personal life and the impact of his work on the lives of others. The quiet moments, the late nights, the strained relationships – Gleeson could bring those to the forefront.

Key Scenes to Showcase Gleeson's Ability

To truly assess Gleeson's suitability, let's consider some key scenes from 'The Paper' trailer and how he might approach them:

The Deadline Rush

The trailer opens with a montage of frantic activity in the newsroom – phones ringing, reporters shouting, editors barking orders. Gleeson could capture the controlled chaos, conveying the sense of urgency and pressure without resorting to caricature. He could project a sense of calm authority amidst the storm, a leader who is both demanding and respected.

The Ethical Dilemma

A key scene involves Hackett grappling with a potentially inaccurate story. Gleeson could portray the internal conflict, showcasing the character's struggle between the desire to break a big story and the responsibility to ensure its accuracy. This is where his dramatic depth would shine.

The Personal Sacrifice

The trailer hints at the strain that Hackett's job places on his marriage. Gleeson could bring a sense of vulnerability to these scenes, highlighting the sacrifices he makes for his career and the impact on his personal life. This could be conveyed through subtle gestures, unspoken words, and the weariness in his eyes.

The Importance of Casting: Beyond Domhnall Gleeson

While the focus is on Domhnall Gleeson, the success of a 'The Paper' trailer remake, or even a full film, hinges on the ensemble cast. Consider these crucial roles and potential casting choices:

Alicia Clark (originally played by Marisa Tomei): A strong, independent-minded journalist and Hackett's wife. Saoirse Ronan could bring a similar blend of vulnerability and determination to the role.
Bernie White (originally played by Robert Duvall): The seasoned, old-school editor-in-chief. Bryan Cranston could embody the gravitas and experience of this character.
Michael McDougal (originally played by Randy Quaid): The eccentric and often unreliable reporter. Bill Hader could bring a comedic edge to this role.

Directing Vision: Setting the Tone

The director's vision is paramount. A successful remake would need to capture the energy and pace of the original while also bringing a fresh perspective. Consider these directorial approaches:

Gritty Realism: Emphasize the challenges and pressures faced by journalists in a hyper-competitive media landscape.
Dark Humor: Inject a cynical and satirical tone, reflecting the absurdity of the news cycle.
Character-Driven Narrative: Focus on the personal lives and ethical dilemmas of the journalists, making the story more relatable and emotionally resonant.

Modernizing the Story: Technology and Social Media

A contemporary remake would need to address the impact of technology and social media on journalism. Here are some potential storylines:

The Rise of Fake News: Explore the challenges of verifying information in the age of social media and the dangers of spreading misinformation.
The 24-Hour News Cycle: Depict the relentless pressure to break stories first and the impact on journalistic integrity.
The Influence of Social Media: Show how social media can be used to both inform and manipulate public opinion.

The Legacy of 'The Paper': Why It Still Matters

'The Paper' remains a relevant and compelling film because it explores timeless themes about journalism, ethics, and the human condition. It reminds us of the importance of a free and independent press and the challenges faced by those who strive to report the truth. A remake, or even a trailer reimagining with someone like Domhnall Gleeson, could reignite these conversations and introduce the story to a new generation.

Conclusion: From Office Antics to Newsroom Drama – Domhnall Gleeson's Potential

While it might seem like a leap from comedic roles to a gritty newsroom drama, Domhnall Gleeson possesses the talent and versatility to convincingly portray a character like Henry Hackett. His ability to convey nuance, intensity, and even a touch of dark humor makes him a compelling choice. A 'The Paper' trailer remake, or even a full reimagining, with Gleeson at the helm could be a fascinating exploration of journalism in the modern age. The key would be to capitalize on his strengths, address the potential challenges, and ensure a strong supporting cast and directorial vision. Ultimately, the success of such a project would depend on capturing the essence of the original while also bringing a fresh and relevant perspective to the story.

The Broader Implications of Casting Versatile Actors

The discussion around Domhnall Gleeson's potential role in a 'The Paper' remake highlights a broader trend in Hollywood: the increasing emphasis on casting versatile actors who can transcend genre boundaries. This trend reflects a desire for more complex and nuanced storytelling, as well as a recognition that audiences are more sophisticated and demanding. Actors like Gleeson, who can seamlessly transition between comedy, drama, and action, are highly sought after because they can bring a unique perspective and depth to any role.

The Future of Journalism in Film

Films about journalism continue to be relevant and important, particularly in an era of misinformation and media distrust. 'The Paper' is just one example of a film that explores the challenges and ethical dilemmas faced by journalists. Other notable examples include 'All the President's Men,' 'Spotlight,' and 'The Post.' These films remind us of the crucial role that journalism plays in holding power accountable and informing the public. As the media landscape continues to evolve, we can expect to see more films that grapple with the complexities of journalism in the digital age.

Fan Casting and Speculation: The Power of Imagination

The idea of Domhnall Gleeson in 'The Paper' remake is, at this point, pure speculation and fan casting. However, these kinds of discussions are important because they fuel creativity and imagination. They allow us to think about actors in new and unexpected ways and to imagine how different actors might bring different perspectives to classic roles. Ultimately, fan casting and speculation are a testament to the power of cinema and the enduring appeal of great stories.