New Clooney project 'The American' begins shooting in Italy

Just in from Focus Features, production has begun on 'The American' a suspense/thriller which is an adaptation of a Martin Booth novel. Here's the rundown from the offical press release;

Alone among assassins, Jack (played by Mr. Clooney) is a master craftsman. When a job in ends more harshly than expected for this American abroad, he vows to his contact Larry (Bruce Altman of this fall’s Peter and Vandy) that his next assignment will be his last. Jack reports to the Italian countryside, where he holes up in a small town and relishes being away from death for a spell. The assignment, as specified by a Belgian woman, Mathilde (Thekla Reuten of Focus’ award-winning In Bruges), is in the offing as a weapon is constructed. Surprising himself, Jack seeks out the friendship of local priest Father Benedetto (Italian screen and stage veteran Paolo Bonacelli) and pursues romance with local woman Clara (Italian leading lady Violante Placido). But by stepping out of the shadows, Jack may be tempting fate.

I can't lie....I like George Clooney, the upcoming The Men who Stare at Goats looks hilarious. That being said this looks more like Syriana in theme and I'm not the biggest fan of Clooney when he's not being a goofball. More on this film to come as details emerge.