Henrick Vartanian
By: Benjamin Scuglia —
Thanks to an eye-catching turn in “The Social Network,” up-and-comer Armie Hammer is now in talks for a plum gig opposite Leonardo DiCaprio in a biopic of J. Edgar Hoover. The 6’5 blond stud, grandson of oil tycoon Armand Hammer, played identical twins Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss in “The Social Network”—yep, although model Josh Pence was a body double in some scenes, Hammer did play both roles—and clearly left an indelible impression in the fast-moving, critically acclaimed drama.
For the new role, Hammer would potentially take on the role of Clyde Tolson, number-two man to Hoover during the formation and early years of the FBI. Hoover, of course, has become one of the most controversial figures in U.S. history, known for using the power of the Bureau to harass and intimidate his perceived enemies. The script was penned by Dustin Lance Black—Oscar-winning screenwriter of “Milk”—with direction by Clint Eastwood himself. Cameras are scheduled to roll in February, 2011 and given how quickly Eastwood tends to work, look for the Warner Bros. release later in the year. Tolson spent decades at Hoover’s side, leading to speculation by historians and newshounds the pair were longtime, closeted lovers. Upon Hoover’s death, Tolson inherited his estate and even accepted the U.S. flag that had been draped over Hoover’s coffin. Hammer has joked that his wife, television host and journalist Elizabeth Chambers, is fine with the idea of a possible onscreen liplock with DiCaprio. “My wife is just happy I don’t have to kiss another woman,” he said.