“Me And Orson Welles” director Richard Linklater has praised Zac Efron for being a “real leading man.” The “High School Musical” actor stars alongside Christian McKay and Claire Danes in the upcoming period drama, based on one young man’s experience with the legendary theatre star.

Speaking to DS at the film’s UK premiere, Linklater said: “Zac was the first guy I sat down with [for the role of Richard Samuels]. I’d only seen him in one movie – ‘Hairspray’ – and I just thought he was perfect. He’s really smart, he works hard and he has that innocence but knowing.”

Linklater added: “He’s a real leading man. He had to go toe-to-toe with Orson Welles and not get blown off the screen. It’s a testament to his charisma and screen presence that he pulls that off.” [Source]