Sneak Peek: 'Narnia' Prince Ben Barnes does 'Dorian Gray'

We have an early peek at hunky Ben Barnes (a.k.a. Prince Caspian of "Narnia") as Dorian Gray.

He's playing the eternally gorgeous title character in "Dorian Gray," a new adaptation of Oscar Wilde's creepy gothic classic novel, "The Picture of Dorian Gray."  I think we all know how this will end.

First published in 1890 and considered a timeless work of literature, the novel's theme still works on so many levels, given our cultural obsession with youth, beauty, sex, wealth and celebrity, and the darkness and problems that accompany the seeking of these things.

Here's the scoop: A beautiful, naïve young man is introduced to the hedonist pleasures of London by a charismatic mentor (played by Colin Firth). When an artist paints a portrait of Dorian, capturing the power of his youth and beauty, Dorian makes a flippant oath: He swears to give anything - even his immortal soul - to always looks as young and handsome as he does in the picture.

Totally bad idea. Just ask Joan Rivers.

Dorian’s life in the fast lane goes on, but he is haunted by his portrait, now tucked away in the attic, which is changing, growing more ugly and debauched while his own face remains beautiful, unmarred by time, drink, drugs and evil deeds.

I can hardly wait for this one. Barnes is perfect for this role. The only other actor I could have imagined as Dorian Gray would be Robert Pattinson, who's starring in the upcoming "Twilight." (See our video interview with Pattinson, "Boxers or briefs?" from Comic-Con.)

The film, which just started shooting in London also stars Ben Chaplin, Rebecca Hall ("Vicky Cristina Barcelona"), Fiona Shaw ("Harry Potter") Rachel Hurd-Wood ("Perfume"), Johnny Harris ("The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus," "Atonement").

Photo: Colin Firth and Ben Barnes in "Dorian Gray"

courtesy of DDA/photographer Giles Keyte

Comments

[Judith]

I'd have preferred Pattinson in the role as he;s a better actor. Barnes is a bit of a lightweight. He didnt impress in Prince Caspian at all.

[helen]

I really wish Robert Pattinson was playing the role. He has far more screen presence than Ben Barnes. Banres had terrible reviews for the last Narnia film and it was well justified.

[blearyeyedmesgirl]

While I'm sure Ben will be great...this is definitely a role I too would have loved to have seen Rob [Pattinson] portray.

It's just the type of deep and diverse character that Robert would blow our minds with, being the phenomenal actor he's proven himself to be.

In the meantime, I can look forward to Roberts' roles of Art in 'How To Be' and Salvador Dali in 'Little Ashes.' I'm looking forward to these two films of Rob's even more so than the much hyped 'Twilight.' I would enjoy him in anything, though. Robert Pattinson can express more emotion with just one look, than some can express in a lifetime!

[RuthP]

I think Rob Pattinson would have given a much more interesting take on Gray than the rather bland Ben Barnes. Barnes doesnt excite me. He may have pretty boy poster looks but his acting hasnt grabbed me so far. Pattinson would have been a far more exciting choice.

[Jenny]

Rob Pattinson would have been perfect. Such a shame its not him. I wasnt fussed on Barnes in Chronicles of Narnia Prince Caspian. He's not in Pattinson's league. He doesnt have Pattinson's charisma either. Pattinson radiates sex appeal.

[Emily]

Glad I'm not alone in thinking Pattinson would have been a far more exciting choice. I hope because he's now based in LA it wont mean that British directors overlook him for roles. Gray is a sexy role and Barnes doesnt have that WOW factor. Rob is sex on legs. A more dangerous actor. Barnes is a boring unimaginative pick.

[lifeisfast]

I think Robert Pattinson would have been wonderful in the role, he certainly has the talent and depth to portray many different characters, as we've seen! As for now, I am excited to see a little more of his range with the upcoming movies How to Be and Little Ashes, as well as the much hyped Twilight. Everyone should keep an eye out for him!

[Manesa]

I agree with the Robert Pattinson part. However, just like Twilighters were initially abhorrent of Pattinson himself playing the part of Edward, I believe we should all give Barnes the benefit of the doubt. He may be able to pull this off. Plus, I believe the accent in Narnia was not pulled off well, either. We shall see....

[Jennifer]

Good luck to Barnes but to date his performances have been lack lustre. His Prince Caspian was particularly lifeless.

Rob Pattinson would have excited me a heck of a lot more. A far more versatile and dynamic actor.

[Wendy]

Dishrag I also thought Pattinson would have made a wonderful Dorian Gray and I'm very disappinted to see the very average boy band Barnes has the role.

What a missed opportunity. I'd have loved to see have seen Pattinson's take on the debauched role.

[Ker]

Barnes just worked with Firth on another film. Seems a boring choice to pick the same two actors again. Pattinson would have been a far more original choice. He is an actor with more screen presence and edge to him. The choice of Barnes makes me want to stiffle a yawn. He's a sweet looking guy but not what I call sexy or enticing.

When Rob is on screen you cant look at anyone else which is what you want from the role of Dorian.

[Mark Sommer]

Does anyone know if this British production is going to be released in the United States? and how widely? I have not been able to find much information. Thanks to anyone who answers!

[Priscilla]

I also believe Robert Pattinson would have been a better choice. He's such a talented and beautiful actor. He's played very diverse roles. This would have been great for him. Barnes comes off a little dull. It's too bad.

[Emmly]

I think you have to give Ben Barnes a sporting chance. He's only starred in one major film so far, and you have to keep in mind that it was largely a children's movie. He didn't have much of a chance to be edgy or sexy. I for one am interested to see what he does with Dorian Gray.

[Kate]

Barnes is an uninspirng choice. he was panned for his Narnia performance which wasnt exactly a difficult role.

From the various roles Ive seen Pattinson in he'd have made a much better Gray. He's a very sensuous seductive performer. His work in the Haunted Airman shows that. What a shame we wont get to see his Gray.

[AC]

You know everyone here seems to be putting down Ben Barnes and going with this Pattinson guy. Perhaps you all are all wanting to believe in the so called safe bet, because you all are worried that Ben will prove you wrong and totally blow you away with his performance?
I for one am looking forward to his performance as Dorian Gray. As are many others I know.
I hope like heck He proves you all wrong...I know he will!

I support Ben Barnes in this and all future rolls.

[Susie]

yeah either Rob Pattinson who was in Harry Potter, Jared Leto who looks beautiful or Johnny Depp who looks eternally young, would have been a better choice to play Dorian.
out of the three probably Jared or Johnny, they would be able to get you to do anything with a flutter of their eyelash. thats who Dorian is, no matter what he does you would be always willing to forgive him or to look after him.

[Jenbarn76]

I believe Rob Pattinson would have been a perfect choice for the role. Ben Barnes will do a goog job, but Rob would have taken it to the next level I believe. Expet big things from him in the future.

[Dav]

Barnes had the most awful reviews for Prince Caspian. Maybe he can turn things round but there didnt seem to be much there to work with.
A bit vacant behind the eyes.

Pattinson would have been able to pull off the conflicted, confident, sexy role with ease. I agree its a missed opportunity.

[Sara]

Ben Barnes is a disappointing choice. I know the role requires good looks but couldnt they find one that could act,

[jae]

All of you claiming that Robert Pattinson would have done a better job are obviously Twilight fans. lol. This is almost as humorous as when people say Orlando Bloom is a horrible actor based off of only seeing 'Pirates' or 'Lord of the Rings'. They've never seen his indie films such as 'Haven' or 'The Calcium Kid' where he shines. Same thing for Ben Barnes...if you believe he can't act, then watch 'Bigga than Ben'. It's a small British indie film he made last year. He's simply brillaint! More than just a pretty face. I believe that you can't base true acting talent on one blockbuster popcorn flick. Films like 'Narnia' are made for reactions to the amazing special effects and visuals; not for the acting. Give Ben a chance.

[Ho]

I would have loved to have seen Robert Pattinson play the role. A much more exciting actor.

[Sandy]

Barnes reminds me of Bloom - all looks no talent. He was forgettable in Caspian. Give me Pattinson any day. Now thats what I can scrumptious and talented.

[claudia]

I agree with Sandy. Barnes was forgettable as Caspian, but I do want to see what he will be able to do with this role. He did get it after all. Pattinson is very versatile, he proved it in Bad Mother's Handbook, How to Be and Harry Potter already, and he is just getting started in flexing his acting muscles! I guess we will just have to keep an eye out for his other new movies Little Ashes and Parts per Billion. Alright, and Twilight too I guess...

[sarah]

I wonder if Colin Firth got Barnes the role.