Who is Sharlto Copley?

Forget about Christian Bale, Daniel Craig or even Arnie. Sharlto Copley is the next action hero hottie that's going to blow your Batas off, you hear?

Sharlto Copley plays the sweet yet sexy Wikus van de Merwe, the lead character in District 9, SA's very own alien 'invasion' flick. That's right, spaceships don't just land in Hollywood and Roswell.

So, you're wondering why you haven't seen him on 7de Laan or a Klipdrift ad yet, right? That's because Sharlto Copley isn't an actor. Well, he wasn't, until he became Wikus. He's been involved in other films but always behind the camera. Despite his limited acting experience, he's a gem as the unlikely hero with a heart of malva pudding.

Since District 9 hit the big screens in America, he's been spotted on the red carpet at various other movie premieres and everyone wants a piece of him. Well back off, Yanks – he's ours! And we're mighty proud of Wikus for making Bata takkies and authentic South African swear words cool. Talking about proud SA exports – Sharlto, Charlize? Can you hear the similarity? It's a sign – I smell an Oscar!

Catch Sharlto in action when District 9 opens in SA theatres on Friday 28 August.

Watch the trailer and here are 10 things we love about District 9.