FOX Searchlight Pictures announced today that production has gotten under way for their new police drama/thriller The Night Watchman.  The film stars Keanu Reeves as a veteran Los Angeles cop who has found life difficult after his wife dies.  The film revolves Reeves' character taking on a rival cop when he is implicated in a murder.

The good news for House fans?  Gregory House himself, Hugh Laurie, is a part of the distinguished cast, which also includes Chris Evans, Forrest Whitaker, Common, Jay Mohr and Naomie Harris.  The role which Laurie plays is unspecified as of yet, but the mere fact that Laurie is getting high-profile work in Hollywood films is the big story. 

If you only know Hugh Laurie from his work on House, then you're missing out.  For years, Laurie has been a force across the pond, a well-known comic presence who, from time to time, dabbled in the world of drama.  But, he was first and foremost a comedian.  Well, let's go back a second.  In case you were unaware, Hugh Laurie is British.  He is the proud owner of an English accent.  Therefore (you might have sleuthed this bit out already), Laurie has been doing an American accent for House.

Anyway, Laurie is best known for his comedic work, most often paired with long-time comedy partner Stephen Fry.  With Fry, Laurie was a supporting player on Blackadder, a long-running comedy show starring Mr. Bean himself, Rowan Atkinson.  From there, Laurie and Fry got their very own sketch comedy program, appropriately titled “A Bit of Fry and Laurie”. 

In the States, Laurie has shown off his comedic prowess, as well.  Besides a number of cameos is big-name projects (including a scene-stealing appearance on Friends), Laurie hosted an episode of Saturday Night Live last season and acquitted himself quite nicely. 

I think House fans can agree: the more Hugh Laurie, the better.

-Oscar Dahl, BuddyTV Senior Writer
Source: MovieWeb
(Image Courtesy of FOX)