Yowza! Some critics have called Ryan Gosling, 30, the next George Clooney, 50, for his leading-man status combined with solid acting ability, and this proves they're right!

In the new trailer for political thriller The Ides of March, Ryan Gosling holds his own with George (who also co-wrote and directed the pic.)

It's hard to believe Gosling used to be the star of Fox's Young Hercules when he was just 18! To get a friendly (and hilarious) reminder of those years -- check out the pic after the jump!