Black can relate to caveman role

Rex Features

Jack Black has said he can relate to his character in forthcoming caveman comedy Year One.

The actor signed up for the film after arranging a meeting with his idol Harold Ramis, who is directing.

He told E! during a set visit: "The central character I play is Zed and he's a searcher, a wonderer and the guy who's thinking about the big questions in life.

"And that resonates with me because although I seem like a clown, I think deep thoughts a lot of the time and I'm always wondering what's going on in this strange peculiar land that we call Earth."

Talking about co-star Michael Cera (Juno, Superbad), he said: "Michael Cera, my hero. Do you know what I found out though? The dude was born after I graduated from high school. I could totally be his father - I had the sperm."

The movie, produced by Knocked Up director Judd Apatow, is scheduled for release next year.