Well, my list might seem a little scattered. I appreciate different individuals for different reasons. Just because someone has primarily been in screwball comedies, doesn't mean they couldn't hold their own in an emotionally draining drama ... or visa versa.
First and foremost, if I could get him, Tom Hanks. Quite simply because he is the greatest actor alive. He has the "everyman" quality people identify with. He can become characters. Plus, if my screenplay sucks, I know he could carry the movie with little to no dialogue and a volleyball.
Other people I admire and would enjoy working with:
Steve Buscemi - Even though he sometimes falls into the pit of the Hollywood Blockbuster, he is a very creative actor and is willing to get into almost any role.
Jim Carrey - This guy is hungry to be remembered for more than elastic facial contortions. I know he's gonna be brilliant in Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. He was brilliant in Man on the Moon. Sure he'll always do the slapstick/screwball comic fare, but he will be remembered as an actor who could do more.
Naomi Watts - I recently saw 21 Grams. Of the 3 leads, I think did the worst job, but she is fearless it seems. She's got The Ring 2 and King Kong coming up, but let's hope she doesn't get away from these roles that showcase her talent.
Elijah Wood, Sean Astin, & Andy Serkis - They could be like the new Three Stooges. Serkis could be the new Moe, mean and nasty always out to hurt the other two. Astin could be the new Curley, he is after all the fat hobbit. Wood could be the new Larry, along for the ride, no real need for him. And I would guest star as the new Shemp, I look damn good with oily, slicked back hair.
Plus, I could make Serkis do my Voice Mail message as Gollum and Smeagol arguing over if I was home or not.
Nicole Kidman - She is stunningly gorgeous. If I was to ever do a movie where I needed a "perfect woman", she would be second on the list ... right after my wife.
Alec Baldwin - I'd make him leave America like he promised he'd do.
Ben Stiller and Friends - I'd make them to a bunch of parodies of movies.
William H. Macy - like Hanks, he's an everyman.
Kevin Smith - I'd do a movie where no one talks but him. Don't think it would be good, go rent An Evening With Kevin Smith. That dude could carry a movie.
I'd work with ...
Harrison Ford on Indiana Jones and the New Director.
Tom Green on an improvisational version of Hamlet.
Topher Grace on a Michael J. Fox biopic.
David Spade on Tommy Boy 2: Fat Ghost in a Little Grave.
Heather Graham on a movie based on the character of Rollergirl from Boogie Nights.
Poke