Simon Baker Hits the Waves for Aussie Surfing Movie 'Breath'

CBS's gain has been a loss for the movies. Why oh why isn't Simon Baker a huge film star? For the Tiffany network's hit-maker ('The Guardian,' 'The Mentalist') maybe a trip back home will change all that.

Baker -- born in Tasmania -- has taken in 'Breath,' based on a novel by one of Australia's most celebrated writers, Tim Winton. It's the story of two reckless teens mentored by a surfing guru named Sando. Variety reports Baker intends to co-produce and star as the aforementioned wave-riding master.

Also under the beach umbrella is Eva, Sando's mysterious American wife. The role of Eva should be coveted by any number of actresses, since Baker clicks onscreen with most co-stars, from The Mentalist's alluring Robin Tunney to a bunch of pesky zombies ('George Romero's Land of the Dead').

Baker's Stateside big break was in Oscar winner 'L.A. Confidential' (alongside fellow Aussies Guy Pearce and Russell Crowe). Baker played doomed young actor Matt Reynolds. He was also seen in the hits "The Ring Two' and 'The Devil Wears Prada.' If Baker and producing partner Mark Johnson ('The Guardian') can get 'Breath' set, it may be the biggest wave of Baker's career. And Simon Baker in a wetsuit? Hey, would 'The Surfing Mentalist' be too much to ask for?