Fantasy Cast: Who should play Green Day in a Rock Biopic?

I still remember back in high school being somewhat obsessed with Green Day’s major-label debut album ‘Dookie’. This led me, through the guidance of a good friend, to “discover” their early albums on indie label Lookout! Records and I descended further into fandom. Since those days of youthful enthusiasm, I have grown up a bit and while I am no longer quite such an avid fan of the energetic punk rock band, I still appreciate their music.

Despite a temporary drop in popularity around the turn of the century, Green Day persisted and survived, making a comeback in a big way. Some hardcore punk fans may suggest the band sold out, but they’ve had more hit singles and success since their re-emergence onto the pop rock scene. No one can dispute the 3-member band knows how to create hit songs, with 8 albums and 27 awards, including 3 Grammy’s. Amidst Green Day’s many successes, ‘Dookie’ became a Diamond Album, selling over 15 million copies.

So, it’s not a stretch to imagine one day a film biopic being developed to showcase the band’s rise from indie punk to illustrious pop icons. I’ve thought for a few years now that Giovani Ribisi would be one interesting choice to play the band’s frontman Billie Joe Armstrong. He’s got a familiar look with Billie Joe and he’s a fine actor. The only question is whether he can carry a tune, but there are ways to work around around that.

While Billie Joe is the voice of Green Day (most of the time) and plays guitar, the band consists of three members… Mike Dirnt on bass and Tre’ Cool on drums. The band has, or had, a distinct image and always had a lively presence on stage. I can totally see James Franco playing Tre’ Cool and, while it may seem odd at first, I can’t help but picture Bradley Cooper as Mike Dirnt.

This is just one geek’s vision, but you probably have your own. If you don’t like these casting options, go ahead and tell us who you see as the perfect cast to play Green Day. Let us all know how you feel and what your vote is by leaving comments below. And, as always, if you have any ideas for future Fantasy Casts, shoot us an email with your ideas. You can find all of our email addresses right here!