James Edward Franco (born April 19, 1978) is an American actor, film director, screenwriter, film producer, author, and painter. He began acting during the late 1990s, appearing on the short-lived television series Freaks and Geeks and starring in several teen films. He achieved international fame with his portrayals of Harry Osborn in Sam Raimi's Spider Man trilogy, drug dealer Saul Silver in Pineapple Express and Aron Ralston in 127 Hours. His other best known films include Milk, Tristan & Isolde, Flyboys, Date Night, Your Highness, Eat, Pray, Love and the upcoming Planet of the Apes reboot Rise of the Apes He has been nominated for three Golden Globe awards, winning one, and received an Academy Award nomination for his work in 127 Hours.