Why a Brit actress?!

Rating: 8/10 (24 September 2013)

This is my first review and a little late, but after watching the DVD, I wanted to throw out my two cents. I've read every one of Lee Child's books in his Jack Reacher series, and was one of those who was reluctant to see the movie, especially after hearing that Tom Cruise was going to portray the 6' 5" Reacher on screen. However, Cruise always brings a presence to his films, and I thoroughly enjoyed this traditional action mystery (no CGI) when it came out in the theaters.
My one gripe is Rosamunde Pike. I think that she's a fine actress and obviously pleasant to the eyes, but why did the director choose a Brit instead of an American actress for this role?! She seemed to struggle through her dialogue with the American accent, and felt that it was the only negative aspect of the film. There are plenty of American women who could have done a very good job as Helen Rodin in this movie.