(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Matt Damon is the best the world has at playing smart characters, says George Nolfi.

George directed Matt in science-fiction movie The Adjustment Bureau, set for release across the globe next year. The director insists 39-year-old Hollywood star Matt was the only person he wanted for the lead role in the film, which tells the tale of an affair between a politician and a ballerina being affected by mysterious forces.

Matt was the first actor who came to mind. Hes just the best the world has to offer at playing an everyman who is very smart, explained George in an interview with Empire magazine.

The actor has played a series of wise characters, including anti-hero Tom Ripley in The Talented Mr Ripley and assassin Jason Bourne in the Bourne action movie franchise. Based on those successful performances, George knew Matt was the ideal actor to play a US President.

Youve got to believe this guy could be President, and has the wherewithal to fight and beat Faith, he added.

The film also stars British actress Emily Blunt as the dancer Matts politician character falls in love with, and is hotly anticipated by moviegoers and critics alike. (C) Cover Media