March 31
No updates today - The flu bug made a visit
March 30
Soulshine.ca: Russell Crowe Gets Help From A Canuck (Alan Doyle) - Nice words about each other - Thanks, Anne S
The SMH: Crowe to work with Ron Howard again. (The Power of Duff and Raewyn) - Thanks, madchen (This has not been confirmed as yet. Hope to hear something more about it next week)
Contact Music: Nicole saddened about Eucalyptus (Mentions the Bellingen area). Thanks, Gilda
Related -- Variety: Thesps splash in 'Water' -- Giamatti, Howard set for Shyamalan pic By MICHAEL FLEMING -- Days after setting his next film, "Lady in the Water," at Warner Bros., M. Night Shyamalan is moving quickly to set Paul Giamatti and Bryce Dallas Howard in the starring roles. Shyamalan has for several days been courting Giamatti to play a building super who finds a sea nymph in his apartment building's pool, and he has tapped Howard to play the title character. Pic will mark a reteaming for Shyamalan and Howard, who starred in his last film, "The Village." She replaced Nicole Kidman in the Lars von Trier-directed "Manderlay" and next stars for Kenneth Branagh in the HBO Films-financed theatrical feature "As You Like It." She also will play the title role in "Mary Queen of Scots" for Warner Independent Pictures. Giamatti is coming off "Sideways" and will next be seen starring opposite Russell Crowe and Renee Zellweger in the Ron Howard-directed "Cinderella Man." - Thanks, Bea
The Philadelphia Inquirer: "Power squared -- In one of those power moves by two of the biggest power movers in Tinseltown, actor Russell Crowe and director Ron Howard are in talks to join forces for their third film collaboration. Variety says The Power of Duff, written by Stephen Belber, is a powerful (natch) drama about a TV news anchor (Crowe) who suffers such anguish over his father's death that he begins to pray on the air. Possibly pitched to studio suits as Network meets Joan of Arcadia meets The Insider, the flick gets its dramatic frisson when those desperate prayers are answered (you can almost hear that overwrought music coming to a crescendo right about... now)." Thanks, Crowe Fan
Very interesting Romper Stomper site by a photographer. (Have your speakers on) - "...Leiss chose 21 images for the exhibition at the Performing Arts Museum (1 May-11 July). They are his personal choice from the many he took during the film's eight week shooting schedule. "The images are intended to represent my interpretation of the urban gang," says Leiss. "In many respects the nature of an exhibition where the artist embarks on a project that is not their own concept, but a defined brief, has ironically given me the chance to free myself of the cerebral approach and explore the instinctive." --Thanks, Rita
Russell once again up for most attractive man at Hello! He needs your vote - Thanks to all who sent this in
The UK Telegraph - Related: "Jamie Bell tells Catherine Elsworth how playing dark and difficult roles has allowed him to emerge from the shadow of Billy Elliot" Thanks, Allison
IGN Film Force on the CM Trailer. Thanks, Allison
Canada.com: Great Big Sea's Alan Doyle produced, co-wrote CD for Russell Crowe - Thanks, Rita, Allison, Anne from CA
The Power of Duff at Movies.com. Thanks, Rita
Ridley's The Kingdom of Heaven site (au)
March 29
I have a page with all the Power of Duff information thus far - The story is appearing everywhere now. Thanks to all who send it in from various sites. Variety seems to have the most on it. See link above.
CROWE DETERMINED TO STICK WITH CINDERELLA MAN (WENN via COMTEX) - RUSSELL CROWE was so determined to play a professional fighter in forthcoming boxing movie CINDERELLA MAN, he persevered as the project bounced from director to director. Crowe, who plays depression-era hero JIM BRADDOCK in the forthcoming RON HOWARD film, wanted the role so much, he didn't let endless rewrites put him off either. He tells British magazine EMPIRE, "I always loved it, and it kept coming back to me in different guises. "I've probably read it 24, 25 times by now and it still gives me goose bumps every time I read it, no matter how much we've changed." (GES/E/ES) - Thanks, Crowe Fan
SciFi Wire: Crowe In Talks For Duff -- Russell Crowe and Ron Howard are circling The Power of Duff, a supernatural film scripted by Stephen Belber, about a TV news anchor whose on-air prayers start getting answered, Variety reported.
The San Diego Tribune: Ship related: "The Star of India offered an on-deck screening of "Top Hat," a 1935 classic with Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. The HMS Surprise – a replica frigate used in the Russell Crowe film "Master and Commander" and now owned by the San Diego museum – had harpist Linda Hill on board. And the replica topsail schooner Californian, the state's official tall ship, was host to a band called Raggle Taggle." Thanks, Allison
March 28
From galliia - Sportstruth.com: Ben
Elias - Rugby -- "I cannot get through this week without commenting
on one Mark Geyer. I can't believe the absolute goose he's made of himself.
Does he really think Russell Crowe should pay his medical bills? Perhaps
Russell should also shout the family a holiday to the Gold Coast to aid
your recovery MG? Mate you are dead-set kidding. Russell Crowe is a major
movie-star and known for his adoration of his beloved Rabbitohs and the
game of Rugby League in general. Without any hidden agenda, simply because
of his love of the game, he has injected support into the league more
than any other high profile person before him. He in turn should be supported
and thanked for his interest not questioned on whether he sent flowers
or not. To be asked to participate in one of the matches at his farm would
be a great honour not to mention an absolute buzz! It was for charity
MG, don't ruin it by creating a problem which might leave Russell thinking
it's all too hard. He can't be held personally responsible for any player
getting injured and be expected to foot the bill. You agreed to play for
charity, you are a big boy and know the risks.
Thank goodness the league have stepped in this time and covered the situation,
although again, I feel they should not have had to. They clearly realise
the value of having Russell Crowe involved in our sport and don't want
his enthusiasm jeopardised. Be the player you always were MG, what happens
on the field stays on the field, you know that. Start being more like
a panther and less of a goose.
From Nancym: "I received my new Biography Magazine the other day and noticed on the next to last page titled "Coming Soon To A&E" that there is gong to be a special, "MOVIEREAL, CINDERELLA MAN" scheduled for June. It's a long way off but I thought you might like to know. This is what they say about it: "The true story of depression-era boxer James Braddock. The film Cinderella Man is based on his life, and reunites the Academy Award-winning team of Ron Howard and Russell Crowe (A Beautiful Mind). Renee Zellweger also stars in the movie."
Contact Music - Dundee on Russell - Thanks, Sheila, Rita
From Kris C: Page 61 of issue 529 4-4-05 of Us Magazine (Letterman Kidnapping).
MSNBC: Jeannette Walls today (Scroll, and it would have been fair of her to include more from that letter!) -- "More from Russell Crowe and his parting from his band 30 Odd Foot of Grunts. The Scoop recently excerpted a message from the part-time crooner (his spokeswoman has confirmed to us that it was authentic) praising his new tunes and pleading with fans to plunk down the cash to buy it. Now Crowe says, “maybe I shouldn't write to you in this manner because it certainly gives lazy and petty people [Scoop note: That would be us.] something to do with their days,however,all [sic] the other options are quite simply tainted.” . . ." - Thanks, Pamela
OT: The NY Times: Let's Dish! -- (In a story on Liz Smith) - "...Jeannette Walls, the purveyor of gossip at MSNBC, said of Ms. Smith: "She made a decision not to be nasty and not to exist on schadenfreude, and that's not a formula that would work today."
Cinema Blend's CM Page: "This story came about in record time. I had just finished watching the upcoming release of Apollo 13 on DVD, which contains the trailer for Russell Crowe’s upcoming film Cinderella Man when I logged on to find out the poster was available on line (located to the right and below in a bigger size)." - Thanks, maggiemac
Indie London on CM: [From Ron] "My dad has been a lifelong boxing fan and the fight which is the climax of our movie was the first boxing match that he ever listened to on the radio," he told Entertainment Weekly. "It was important enough that they literally climbed into their truck in Oklahoma and drove to town and listened to the fight in the pool hall." - Thanks, Rita
EverythingOscar - Best Leading Man prediction. Thanks, Rita
Related and sad - The Daily Telegraph: From Anne S -- "This article is about the sudden death of former Crowded House drummer Paul Hester. This is not related to Russell but all TOFOG fans know how Russ likes to start his concerts with a little bit of Crowded House." (Here is his quote about Playing a Crowded House song from a fan:) "I saw you put up an article on Paul Hester. I’d not seen this quote before, but this is what Russell said about the pre concert inclusion of “Weather”: You know the song that we play before I go on stage, before the band goes on stage, before Thirty Odd Foot of Grunts goes on stage when we tour this has been the same for 3 years or so is "Take The Weather With You" by Crowded House. And I know the meaning of the song is completely different from the way we use it. I just love the song separately any way. But I play it to the audience before we go on stage cause it actually reminds me, you know you always take the weather with you, that line always reminds me this is my moment to actually project and not to internalise, it is my moment for performance so it is really up to me. I can go on stage and depress everybody or I can go on stage and give everybody a big show. That's psychologically why I use that particular song it just reminds me its show time."
Philly.com Dan Gross|A 'Real World' ingrate: (Free reg required for whole article. This is the Russell bit) "Rugby with Russell -- La Salle University seniorJohn Shultz is just back from an international rugby trip which included a stop for a game on Russell Crowe's Australian estate. The actor hung out with the players, signed autographs and posed for photos with Shultz and 20 other players. Shultz signed some autographs himself in Australia where, he says, the players were treated like celebrities." - Thanks, Penny, Anne from CA
March 27 - Happy Easter
Thanks to all who sent me Easter greetings!
Older -- Star Log on Virtuosity - Thanks to Gretchen
Still OT/Related news -- The NY Times: At Paramount, the New Chief Spends Freely -- LOS ANGELES, March 24 - Brad Grey, the former talent manager who only recently took charge of Paramount Pictures, is not wasting any time shaking up Hollywood the old-fashioned way - by spending money on splashy new projects. -- "Still, Mr. Grazer has been very shrewd about cultivating a close relationship with Mr. Grey in recent weeks, and appears to have a ready second home for movies that Universal does not make with him. During Academy Awards week, Mr. Grazer gave a party for Mr. Grey - which was heavily attended by Hollywood's elite - at his Pacific Palisades home. And Mr. Grazer has another advantage; he is a close friend of Mr. Freston, who is Mr. Grey's boss at Viacom. Already Mr. Grazer's efforts seems to be paying off. This week Paramount Pictures acquired the rights to "The Serpent and the Eagle," which will be produced by Mr. Grazer and directed by Ron Howard, Mr. Grazer's business partner. The movie, which is about Mexico in the 16th century, was originally developed at Universal." Thanks, Anne S
There is a new section for My Hand My Heart. It has all the pages that were formerly spread around on the site. More will come.
The Daily Telegraph: Rusty pulls strings for solo single. Thanks, Chattles
The SMH - Spike:Thirty odd foot of ... nothing. Thanks, barbiecat
The Age: Ramsay Street Reunion -- "...Despite British reports that he had agreed to film a guest spot, Oscar-winner Russell Crowe will not be returning to his role of Kenny Larkin, a small-time crook and pal of Henry Mitchell (Craig McLachlan), who appeared in 1987 "Those reports are not true," said a spokesman for Crowe's publicist, Wendy Day. "He was only in it for three episodes." - Thanks, Anne S, Rita
At Yahoo Greg's Previews: CM is now in #12 at The 20 Top Previews - All Upcoming Movies and it is in #02 at The 20 Top Previews - Upcoming Movies Summer 2005 - Thanks, Ivani
The Toronto Sun - Getting it right (nice words for Howard and CM) Thanks, Maggie Mac
The Uk Observer: Metro vs Macho -- Are you a metrosexual or machosexual traveller? John Arlidge tries an LA makeover (Brief mention of Russell)
March 26
Russell has sent new information on the making of the new album - At bottom of the second thesis.
The Weekend Australian - Strine wars by Phillip Adams -- (Opinion piece - Industry related with a brief mention of Jack Thonpson) Thanks, Anne from CA
E! on line: Crowe's band breaks up (snarky bits) Thanks, Kris C [ed note: That is the last I will post on this same endless story]
Cinescape's links to Russell articles and pictures. Thanks, Jamaica
Can Magazine - More on the CM Trailer. Thanks, Allison
March 25
Jeffrey Wells at Hollywood Elsewhere has more nice things to say about the new CM Trailer. Scroll way down to "Settled". Thanks, Maggie Mac
There is a large size of the final CM poster HERE at Latino Review. Thanks, Ivani
OT: A Crowe fan has an interesting site to visit - See her celebrity page
CGee has started a wonderful "the simple joys of being a fan" (memories) at the Perch. Someone mentioned "Root, Root, Root," and here it is, for a limited time, in time for the opening of the USA baseball season.
Russell writes to us once again - Mid-Life Thesis Part 2 (The April 19 at the end of the letter is the day Raewyn is released at i tunes)
Pre order the CM Soundtrack from Amazon and Amazon UK: This item will be released on May 24, 2005. You may order it now and we will ship it to you when it arrives. Thanks, Rita
Harry
at AICN on The new CM Trailer: New
CINDERELLA MAN Trailer Beats Ya Like A Flank Steak - Thanks, MaggieMac
Yahoo: There is a new CM poster out - Thanks, Ivani
From Pamela: "This week Biography Channel’s “Famous” features Salma Hayek and includes a couple of stills from “Breaking Up” and an interview clip with Russell Crowe."
More good screen caps of the new CM Trailer at the Perch, thanks to flakeroo
Related - Alan Doyle: The Juno Cup (pdf form) - Jim Cuddy, Alan Doyle, Doug Gilmour, Dale Hawerchuck and more to play in aid of music education Tickets on sale Saturday, February 26 -- TORONTO, February 21, 2005 - The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS) and MasterCard today announced the first round of team picks for the 2nd annual Juno Cup celebrity hockey game in support of CARAS’ Music Education program, MusiCan. Featuring an impressive roster of Canadian artists and NHL greats, the event kicks-off the 2005 JUNO weekend on Friday, April 1, 7 p.m. at the Selkirk Recreation Complex in Selkirk, Manitoba.
For more information on the 34th annual JUNO Awards, visit the Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS) Web site -- The 2005 JUNO Awards will air on CTV, on Sunday, April 3, 2005.
Related -- The NY Post - Cindy Adams: "THERE exists a little play in a little playhouse about which you might care to hear a little. "Orson's Shadow," at downtown's Barrow Street Theatre, is about Orson Welles, Vivien Leigh, Sir Laurence Olivier and his Lady Olivier wife Joan Plowright. The time is 1960. The place: London. The action: These titanic personalities in a rehearsal process talking about a playwright named Tennessee Williams — who is again red-hot on Broadway this year. Austin Pendleton, "Fiddler on the Roof's" original "Mottel the Tailor" and the actor who played opposite Russell Crowe in "A Beautiful Mind," is the author." Thanks, Kris C
The New York Times today - Briefly Noted: "Crowe's Final Grunt -- Russell Crowe's rock band, 30 Odd Foot of Grunts, has not always been well received; in a review of its last album, Blender magazine said Mr. Crowe's lyrics "run the gamut from mundane to embarrassing." Now it is apparently defunct. In a posting on the band's Web site announcing the completion of a new album, Mr. Crowe, above, said the band "would seem to have dissolved/evolved." In his posting, Mr. Crowe said he was disappointed about the end of the band but now enjoys "the joy of writing unrestricted." - Thanks, Ivani
Related - Film Stew: Howard Takes Flight with Eagle -- Story centers on Hernando Cortez and the Spanish conquest of the Aztecs in 16th century Mexico.
March 24
Older Magazine Scans from Kris C
Cinderella Man at Sneek Peak.com. - From M: "Managed to get 3 weeks work on the film, playing BG on snow-covered streets standing in a soup-line, crowded around a radio and during a 'shanty town' riot. My teen son got 3 months work playing a reporter."
A Russell Crowe blog site in Spanish (Replaces The Russell Crowe Insider)
On this day - 2001 – At the 73rd Academy Awards, Gladiator wins for best picture; its star, Russell Crowe, wins best actor; Julia Roberts wins best actress for Erin Brockovich; Steven Soderbergh wins best director for Traffic. Thanks, Rita
The SMH: Industrial bent - They're out of the ordinary and that's their appeal. Apartments in Sydney's disused sites are a breath of fresh air. - "WHARVES -- That appreciation of unusual old structures was some of the impetus for the ready adaptation of Sydney's redundant finger wharves into prime commercial and residential apartments. The trend began with the Woolloomooloo Wharf in the early '90s, which the likes of Russell Crowe and John Laws now call home. "Rather than drawing boxes in the sky, it's a wonderful opportunity for architects to get their minds around the character of these internal areas," says the national sales manager of Multiplex Living, Kevin Driscoll, who has been promoting Darling Island, Sydney's newest wharf-style development. "It blends history and tradition and gets people back down to the water's edge." Two three-bedders remain, priced at $1,745,000 and $2.6million. Contact Darling Island on 1300 889 979." - Thanks, Crowe Fan
The BBC: Actor Crowe's rock band dissolves - Thanks, Anne S
Empire on line on the new CM trailer (There is a brief glimpse of Paddy - in the bar among those watching the fight) - Thanks, Rita
The Daily Telegraph - No-grunt Crowe - Thanks, Rita
Yahoo's Page on CM. Thanks, Susan N
AZ Central: Decoding Crowe - Scroll - Thanks, Allison
March 23
There is a new trailer for Cinderella Man available on line at Movie Box. This film will grab your heart. - Added - Snaps from the trailer
From Allison - Related: "Howard and Grazer (along with Tom Hanks) are scheduled to be on the "Today" show next Monday."
ET has new footage of Cinderella Man and more ...(I think this is tonight's show)
The Australian: Web diaries of movies in the making -- "Can you imagine if there was a blog with Eucalyptus, and Russell Crowe, Nicole Kidman or even the director made entries?" he said. "The whole of Australia would log on and watch it." Thanks, Allison
Career Builder: Russell Crowe - Way before he was in Gladiator and A Beautiful Mind, Russell Crowe worked, very briefly, as a waiter. Luckily, the aspiring actor and musician didn't like the service industry and turned toward more creative endeavors. - Thanks, Alexa
The Australian - Strewth: Crow, Rusty, crow -- "IS RUSS Le Roq back? Crowe used to go by that name when he was a wannabe New Zealand rock singer, fronting a band called the Romantics. Rusty has, of course, had some success with his flannel-rock band 30 Odd Foot of Grunts, who were big in Texas at one stage. Now on the unofficial fan site Maximum Russell Crowe has carried a message from someone known as RC saying the band has "evolved/dissolved". RC writes: "While that holds certain disappointments . . . they pale in comparison to the joy of writing unrestricted, of talking from my heart and mind simultaneously about things that are important to me now . . . as a 41-year-old father/ husband/ lover/ man." The new songs will apparently touch on: "varying subjects, my beautiful wife, past relationships, my son, people I know, family tragedy, immigrant cane cutters, vilification . . . my contribution to the genre of drinking songs . . . it is without doubt the most satisfying record I've ever made, and I know when you hear it you will be seduced by its beauty." Sounds like it's time for a new flannel and some ugh boots." Thanks, Allison
From the Sondheim.org message board -- "Baz Bamigboye (usually a pretty reliable source) reported in his showbiz column in last Friday's Daily Mail that: "Russell Crowe is mulling over whether or not to star in the film of Stephen Sondheim’s Sweeney Todd."
I have added links to many other countries' i tunes sites HERE
More from the Manila Star on the Howard info from Variety below: "Mystic River scribe Brian Helgeland has been tapped to rewrite the original script by Hans Beimler and Robert Wolfe, which focuses on how the Spanish conqueror Hernando Cortez plundered the Aztec nation aided by an Aztec princess-turned-slave. Brian Grazer will produce."
From Ray's letter at Gruntland:"The "Raewyn" single should be available in all 15 countries where they have the iTunes music store. At the moment they have iTunes music stores available in the US, UK, Canada, Ireland, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Belgium, Greece, Portugal, Spain, Finland, Luxembourg & Austria." - Added today: "Since the iTunes idea came about there were only four countries that had the iTunes music store and now there are many more. Since Australia & NZ do not have the music store yet we are working on alternate ideas for Australia & NZ. I'll keep you posted! Ray"
the SMH: Crowe writes of plans for solo album - Thanks, Rita
Related -- RTE Entertainment: 23 March 2005 - Howard will direct historical epic -- 'A Beautiful Mind' director Ron Howard is set to helm 'The Serpent and the Eagle', a historical epic about the Spanish conquest of Mexico in the 16th century. Variety reports that Brian Helgeland ('Mystic River', 'LA Confidential') will write a new draft of the script for the film. The trade daily says that there is no definitive date on when Howard will begin work on the movie, but it is believed to be a priority. He is currently in pre-production on his big screen adaptation of bestseller 'The Da Vinci Code'; his next film on Irish cinema screens will be 'Cinderella Man'. - Thanks, Rita ("I think all period pieces should star Russell Crowe. If you doin’ a movie about the past, you best get Russell’s ass. I don’t care if you making a movie about three weeks ago, you need to get Russell Crowe. He’ll do the research about three weeks ago, he’ll walk like three weeks ago, he’ll talk like three weeks ago, and you’ll close your eyes, and you’ll go “that sounds like three weeks ago!” " - Chris Rock)
MSNBC: Jeannette Walls must have been surfing - Russell Crowe’s band abandons ship - (Scroll to vote in her live vote: Is Crowe overrated or underrated??!!!!) Thanks, Kris C, Anne S, Ivani
At the Gruntland Board, for those who live outside the USA, there is information from Ray -- iTunes Download Information - Author: Ray Di Pietro - Date: 03-22-05 23:45
March 22
For those new to i tunes, I have made up an instruction page. Click HERE - Hope it helps.
Reelcom: Spring Into Movies, A Season of Cinema By Kim Morgan -- "Cinderella Man (June 3) -- Is it just us, or have we all missed seeing Russell Crowe? This movie (directed by Ron Howard) tells the true story of Depression-era boxing legend James Braddock, who literally fought to feed his family. Uplift, crying jags, bloody boxing matches, Renee Zellweger: this picture could, uh, be a contender—for an Oscar, that is. Crowe will undoubtedly give another stellar performance. And we, a la LA Confidential, love when the Aussie takes off the gloves to play tough Americans."
"My Hand My Heart" image added
Braddock related: Joe Louis and the Construction of a Black American Hero, 1935-1945 -- Lauren Sklaroff - University of Virginia - Thanks, Daniela
The Daily Telegraph: Sanctity for Russell's ode to Jack -- LUCKY that the organisers of Monday's Variety Heart Awards didn't time Russell Crowe's presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to Jack Thompson – we don't think Rusty would have coped with being cut off mid-way through his recital of Patrick Kavanagh's poem Sanctity a second time. Crowe famously bailed up television executive Malcolm Gerrie after his 2002 BAFTA acceptance speech for A Beautiful Mind, which contained an excerpt from the poem, was cut short by broadcaster BBC1. He was at it again on Monday night, reciting a few lines from the poem as a tribute to his old mate Jack." Thanks, Chattles (From 2002, the BBC: The poet behind Russell Crowe's rage)
From Jackie: "I am a Russell fan in the UK and just love your site. I go to it most mornings to update myself on the latest RC news. Thanks so much for all the work you do. I don't know if you're interested, but there is a site about Cockney rhyming slang which quotes the name 'Russell Crowe' as a slang for 'dough' (money). as in...'I've got no Russell Crowe'."
Hello! - Kate and Russell honour Aussie Heroes.
The Australian - Sour notes for online music players (Downloading music in Australia . i tunes is not yet available there. Hope the June rumor mentioned in the article is a real one)
March 21
My Hand, My Heart -- I was sent a copy of Russell's music plans too, but it disappeared in cyber space. Here it is now, with some linked names he mentions. [Ed note: Mark April 19 on your calendar. It is very important that everyone purchase Raewyn from i tunes, and not share with each other. The release of the full album talked about in Russell's letter depends upon the number of downloads Raewyn gets. It will need 20k of downloads.]
"In the June “Biography” issue, the “MovieReal” section will feature CM." Thanks Pamela
Premiere Magazine - Cinderella Man - plus vote for the Best Boxing Biopic - Thanks, Rita
From roe: "I was watching my soap on the cable channel - 'SoapNet' this weekend and saw an announcement for a new version of their "They Started In Soaps" series. It features 3 actors, and it looks like Russell will be one of them. It airs for the first time on April 7th... (how appropriate!). It's an hour long show, and with only 3 featured artists, it could be a nice chunk of the show."
The
Australian: Sophie
star of Variety awards -- The Variety Heart Awards recognise Australians
for their exceptional effort in the humanitarian and entertainment fields....ABC
TV host Andrew Denton, for his work on television, actor Jack Thompson,
who received a lifetime achievement award, and film director Baz Luhrmann
and also received awards. After receiving his award, an emotional Luhrmann
met Sophie and posed for photographs. Presenters included Kate Bosworth,
who is in Australia to film Superman Returns, and Oscar-winning actor
Russell Crowe. - Thanks, Val
Related (Nicole) - The Scotsman: It's strictly business as playboy wines and dines star - Anne from CA
Three new Variety articles - two on CM - thanks to Bea
March 20
LAC - blogcritics.org: "...And this physicality is not confined to weaponry, either. In the scene where Exley interrogates some suspects, Bud White finds himself leaning forward while gripping the back of a chair. His anger at the suspect's words builds (I'm telling you, Russell was robbed of an Oscar) until he breaks the back of the chair and charges at one of the suspects. The tension built in this scene is palpable due to all the usual filmmaking suspects: cinematography, film editing, sound editing and acting. There are moments where the film feels almost 3D in it's presentation, and it deserves a valued place in film history for that alone." - Thanks, Allison
Epping Forest Guardian (UK): Chan joins fight against mental illness - "Star Trek fans will be able to bid for a signed book, I am Spock, by Leonard Nimoy. Other items include signed memorabilia from Madonna and Rod Stewart, a framed DVD gold disc of A Beautiful Mind signed by its star Russell Crowe and four other film cast members, and an Only Fools and Horses framed photograph signed by several members of the original cast." - Thanks, Allison
In the "he is everywhere department" -- "During WrestleMania 21, there will be a commercial featuring Steve Austin in a movie spoof of "Gladiator". Austin plays the role of Russell Crowe with the punch line of the commercial being "Tonight Stone Cold raises hell." Thanks, Allison
In the contoversial article in the New Yorker about Dave Wirtschafter, the president of William Morris Agency (not available on line) -- "...It [WMA] represents only about a half-dozen lead actors, including John Travolta, Reese Witherspoon, Kevin Spacey, Morgen Freeman, Tommy Lee Jones, and Kirsten Dunst, and one superstar: Russell Crowe."
The Observer: Europe's answer to the Great Wall of China - "...Instead, the Romans built mighty defences along the perimeter of their empire. It was not easy. Heavily forested, these areas were vulnerable to attack from a variety of enemies, as is depicted in the opening scene of the film Gladiator, when well-drilled legions led by General Maximus (Russell Crowe) crush barbarian hordes that pour in through dense woodland."
From John: "The Blondie comic strip in Sunday’s paper mentioned Russell. Dagwood tries to surprise Blondie by coming up behind her. She starts by guessing Brad Pitt and goes on list other actors ending with Russell Crowe before Dagwood walks away upset."
For Fun -- Preople Rank: Russell Crowe - 913,000 -- There are 869 names in our database that have a higher Preople Ranking and 47249 names that have a lower Preople Ranking. Your ranking is based on how much people talk about you on the web...
A strange Braddock connection - a short story entitled Jim Braddock's Pledge. Thanks Daniela
Veja Magazine (Brazil) - The Paulo Coelho connection - Thanks, Ivani
Parade Magazine 3/20 - (Snarky, and based on what fact?) Thanks, Kris C
March 19
From Ray Di Pietro: GREAT NEWS! -- Russell Crowe “Raewyn” single release at iTunes on April 19! “Raewyn”, the first single off of Russell Crowe’s new record will be released on April 19, 2005 as an Exclusive Download at the iTunes online music store (www.itunes.com). The single will be released on iTunes via the independent imprint Model 101 and at this stage in the project there is no deal in place for release of the “Raewyn” single or upcoming Russell Crowe full length record in the traditional sense. The full length record is in the mixing stages now in Sydney, Australia.
The Telegraph UK: "Malta -- In its heyday ... Malta was one of the early leaders in the package holiday market. The less adventurous continued going there every year until they died of boredom amid jokes about Maltesers. The new look: Quite the place for sword and sandal epics with both Troy and Gladiator being filmed here - even Russell Crowe would be pacified by the new chic, sophisticated feel of the place. Staying in style: The recently-opened boutique Hotel Juliani (00 356 2138 8000, hoteljuliani.com; from £60 per double, room only) overlooks the fishing bay of St Julian's and has two good restaurants while the five-star Radisson (00800 3333 3333, radissonsas.com, doubles from £80, B&B) with a private beach is scheduled to open on July 1. Where to hang out: St Julian's is Malta's main nightlife area, a mixture of the traditional and the contemporary, while the district of Paceville offers both raucous bars and secluded courtyards. Getting there: GB Airways (0870 850 9850, gbairways.com) flies from Gatwick from £89. Malta Tourist Office (020-8877 6990, visitmalta.com)."
Review of LAC from Crazy4Cinema - - Also one on Gladiator - Thanks, barbiecat
March 18
Added a collage to the Rabbitohs page
The Daily Times (PA): No butts about it: 'Insider' whistleblower warns of dangers of smoking (Wigand) - Thanks, Allison
The Hollywood Reporter: Sex sells on big screen ... unless it's serious (Mention of LAC) - Thanks, Allison
A fan on the birthday wishes board suggests Russell star in a film about New Zealander Charles Upham, VC & Bar. Interesting idea, and a fascinating man.
Business Week on line: A book review - The Big Picture: "...The costs and logistics of modern moviemaking provide Epstein with some of his richest material. For example, actor Russell Crowe's face was scanned into a computer and then digitally placed on the faces of several of the 79 stuntmen used in the movie Gladiator. It took eight months of expensive computer wizardry to make it appear to be Crowe in all the scenes. But under the terms of special insurance that banks and outside financiers demand to cover a film's "essential elements," stars are mostly not allowed to do their own stunts, lest an injury delay production."
Premiere Theaters: Which Coming Attraction Do You Want to See? - Vote for CM. Thanks, Rita
From a great web site I found - McSweeney's (they also publish books). They have a section - "Open Letter to people who are not likely to respond," and this one caught my eye, and funny bone: An Open Letter to the Hollywood Movie Machine -- "...I'm thinking Gwyneth as the young woman betrayed by her husband and longing for a second chance at love, Russell as the cowboy/soft-hearted poet still haunted by the horrors he witnessed in Grenada, and Robin as the mentally ill, disgraced former rodeo clown who brings them together."
Good review at the Times for Spamalot - the new Broadway musical of Monty Python and the Holy Grail. Related two ways - Russell loves Monty Python and Hank Azaria (MA) gets nice words (Free registration)
At Amazon: Roger Ebert's Movie Yearbook 2005 -- The Movie Yearbook also contains the year's interviews and essays-perceptive profiles of actors such as Kevin Costner and Russell Crowe... Thanks, Rita
Darrin has a bunch of Crowe video interviews at her site. Please right click and save to your computer before viewing.
Arbiter On line: Humorous take on how the NCAA brackets got started. -- "... The new competition format enthralled the public. They credited its ability to connect them closer with the gladiators. When Russell Crowe won, they won. It was that simple. Soon, everyone was paying an entry fee to predict the outcomes, and thus, Nero’s plan was a success." - Thanks, Allison
Zaptoit TV News: TNT's 'Gladiator' Unleashes Cable Ratings Hell - Thanks, Judy T
Lampedusa, CroweItalia's webmaster, posted the link at the Perch to the video of new edition Romper Stomper's Russell interview. Click on "Link."- Thanks, Daniela
March 17 
"Australian 'Rugby League Week' Magazine , 16 March
2005 issue, features Russell Crowe in 1 page "You promised...Bulldog
Braith in a Bunnies jumper
in 2006, now that would be something to Crowe about" story with photo."
Thanks, Rita
Thanks to Fee, the newsletter Oscar Talk with extravagant praise for CM and all concerned.
Gladiator Extended Edition: Wal-Mart's entertainment schedule notes that the DVD will be released on April 26. - Thanks, Allison
From Janet G: "This morning on Good Day Live, (9am Fox Channel 2, San Jose, CA) Leonard Malton praised Cinderella Man and they played the trailer while he was talking with the show's hosts. He praised the movie, Ron Howard, and our Russell for a wonderful performance. Leonard said he has great hopes for this movie. (Of course!) The trailer was great. The music very moving. I hope we will start to see the trailer in more places now. Come on June!!!! And dare we hope for a new TOFOG album soon. Life is good. Very, very good!"
Related from Bea: "Apollo 13" Anniversary Edition DVD Launch -- California Tuesday, March 22, 2005 Simultaneous IMAX screenings of the film will be held, followed by a live satellite Q&A between the IMAX theaters at the California Science Center with Tom Hanks, Ron Howard and Brian Grazer and the Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral with Captain Jim Lovell. Where: IMAX theaters at the California Science Center, Los Angeles
The Sullivan County Democrat: Story on the Braddock family
The Daily Telegraph again: Rusty doing time behind the camera - Click here for picture
U of Chicago Press: Gladiator-Time related: Eight recipes from Around the Roman Table - Food and Feasting in Ancient Rome by Patrick Faas
March 16
PR on Mike DeLisa's Cinderella Man book: "Please find attached advance information regarding Cinderella Man: The Biography, by Mike DeLisa, due for publication by Milo Books May 1st 2005. The author is Historical Consultant on the forthcoming Russell Crowe movie and this book is the first heavyweight biography of the man who caused the greatest upset in the history of boxing. Copies can be pre-ordered from Amazon.com now."
For CM and St Pat's Day tomorrow, listen to Kathleen Keane's Irish recording (mp3). (Kathleen did some of the background music for CM) - Scroll for a picture and more information on Keane from Kerry Records
Saddoboxing site with a CM search. Thanks, Rita
The Times Union: 'Cinderella' threw quite an uppercut - Highly anticipated movie about world champion boxer Braddock stirs memories in his relatives -- "...When Klenk and her husband got engaged and took a train to New York City, Uncle Jimmy picked them up at the station. "I remember he was driving this big, shiny car with a bar in the back and the whole nine yards," Klenk recalls. "He was big and handsome, a real celebrity." - Thanks, Rita
The Daily News Sports - (Older Article): Pugs always score big on silver screen - Thanks, Rita
TOFOG News: The Daily Telegraph -- Rusty doing time behind the camera. Thanks, barbiecat
Learn to Haka! Thanks, CG
The SMH: Rabbitohs to call Olympic stadium home
Another good review for the Romper Stomper DVD. Thanks, Allison
The Daily Star: (Related) Saladin and Sir Ridley: Hollywood does holy war - Thanks, Allison
March 15
Forbes: War of the War of the Worlds -- "...Last year UAV licensed the 1990 clunker Prisoners of the Sun, in which actor Russell Crowe had a bit part. UAV slapped the newly hot actor's mug on the DVD box, then distributed it when Twentieth Century Fox released its DVD of Crowe's Master &Commander. UAV also has hawked amateurish animated films that play off such Disney fare as The Lion King (Kimba the Lion Prince) and Hercules (The Amazing Feats of Young Hercules)." Thanks, Crowe Fan
The
Irish Examiner: Council
asked to approve Harris portrait (Russell mention) - Info on the artist,
Thomas Ryan: (Thomas
Ryan PPRHA (b.1929) Thomas Ryan attended the Limerick School of Art, then
the National College of Art in Dublin, where he studied under Seán
Keating and Maurice MacGonigal (q.v.). In 1957 he first exhibited at the
RHA and became an associate member in 1968. He has had many commissions
for portraits and he is also well known for his Irish historical scenes,
especially those of the 1916 Rising, and for his sensitive still-life
paintings. He has exhibited at the Municipal Gallery of Modern Art in
Dublin and was President of the RHA from 1982 to 1993.)
- Thanks, Crowe Fan
Variety - Summer Preview - JUNE 3 - Cinderella Man (Universal/-Miramax): The team behind "A Beautiful Mind" (Ron Howard, Russell Crowe and Brian Grazer) enter the ring for the story of boxer Jim Braddock, a working-class hero during the Depression. Renee Zellweger co-stars....THe first week of June has been a major box office frame the last two years, with the latest "Harry Potter" opening to $94 million in 2004. In 2003, "2 Fast 2 Furious" revved to a $50 million opening while "Finding Nemo" did $47 million in its sophomore session. But while a single new pic dominated the market in previous years, this summer, "Cinderella Man" and "Lords of Dogtown" seem to be set to split the marketplace between old and young. No matter who wins the weekend, Universal is hoping "Cinderella" plays like "Seabiscuit," another Depression-era rags-to-riches sporting tale that raked in more than $120 million after opening to $20.9 million in late July 2003; pic made a run for the roses during awards season at the end of the year. - Thanks, Bea
Encore Cable TV USA - The Films of Ridley Scott
The SMH: Neighbours 20th Birthday - Thanks, Crowe Fan
The Daily Telegraph au: News close to sealing Fox (Would this affect Eucalyptus?)
Urban Cinefile: 10/3/2005: RUSSELL RABBITOHS ON ABOUT TEAM LOYALTY - “Stick with your team, no matter what,” was the mantra that drove Russell Crowe’s loyalty to the Rabbitohs, he told a press conference in Sydney today, when announcing a unique new sponsorship deal. Crowe’s football team, the Rabbitohs (South Sydney) will be raising awareness of his latest film, Cindarella Man, for a unique eight week sponsorship period starting in July, with each player’s red and green jersey sporting the title, three months prior to the film’s Australian release (October 2005).
MSNBC: Counterfeiters copy Livestrong bands - Buying a fake bracelet doesn't benefit cancer survivors -- "You've seen them just about everywhere — on Tom Cruise, Russell Crowe, and John Kerry. They're the fashion must-have: A yellow rubber wristband bearing the imprint "Livestrong." It's the creation of — and cause for — Tour de France king and cancer survivor Lance Armstrong." - Thanks, Allison
Real Insurance's page on the new deal with the Rabbitohs
March 14
Souths.com: "Visit our multimedia section on www.souths.com.au to hear (audio file) all of the media conference held last Thursday to announce the 'Cinderella Man' sponsorship." Thanks, Rita
Amazon:
From
Script to Screen: "...Moreover, the book features a case study
of the elements of that Oscar-winning Ron Howard film. Even critics will
be interested to learn of the efforts involved in trying to present the
complex subject of schizophrenia with intelligence and respect."
(Click on book for larger image)Thanks, Daniela
Film Four competition to win a DVD of Romper Stomper. Thanks, Daniela
Paddy Considine wins the Empire UK best Brit actor award.
The Independent: The 30 greatest media movies (The Insider) Thanks, Daniela
Radar - The SMH: Who is the Insider? December 23, 2004 -- "Here is a fact: when you see the word “source”, “friend” or “insider” in an Australian celebrity magazine “exclusive”, you’re looking at a conversation that never happened with a person who was never conceived." (Very interesting on Aussie tabloids etc)
Transcripts from the Sunday Roast Oz TV Show with Mark Geyer (He clears up the injury business) and some from the Footy Show - Thanks, Chattles
March 13
From Rita - Letters to the editor, the SMH: (Scroll) "Putting the boot in -- I read with interest that Russell Crowe has arranged for South Sydney players to advertise his new film, Cinderella Man, when it is released this year ("Games force NRL to toy with pre-season competition", Herald, March 10). Let's hope Souths don't have any 12 o'clock kick-offs during this time or they may all lose a boot during the game. I'm also convinced that the ugly stepsisters all follow Parramatta, Canterbury and Manly. - Mark Berg Caringbah"
From ninemsn: If you have not seen all of these already. Search for Russell Crowe or any of the name listed below: "Australian films: what's wrong? Pt 1, Australian films: what's wrong? Pt 2, Crowe offers to buy Souths, Weidler's world: Crowe's fantasy, Geyer asks Crowe for injury pay, Crowe was al-Qaeda target, Cinderella Man, Russell Crowe's footy comp"
Miss Lizzy at Crowetopia has a nice new wallpaper from one of the press conference images.
More release dates added for Cinderella Man at the IMdb - Thanks, Ivani
Ninemsn: Kidman may play cult photographer (Diane Arbus) - Scroll for news of Jack Thompson. (Arbus/Related from the NY Times: The Profound Vision of Diane Arbus: Flaws in Beauty, Beauty in Flaws - "Her powerful and moving retrospective, the first full-dress overview in more than three decades and, with the cooperation of the Arbus estate, the most extensive ever organized, has finally arrived at the Metropolitan Museum" (Free reg required)
Jack T is one of the senior ambassadors for Seniors Week in Australia
March 12
Thanks to Ivani - Movieline Magazine 1997
The Sunday Opinion - Hard copy of the Telegraph story reported yesterday: My day on the phone with a beautiful mind - By DEAN RITCHIE
The Sunday Telgraph: Fairytale Rabbitohs hit the wall - Thanks, Anne S
March 11
Australian Empire Magazine, April 2005 issue, features Russell
Crowe
in "You heard it here first" story about upcoming Cinderella
Man with photo. Thanks, Rita
The last one! CBS News - The Early Show: Crowe Downplays Al Qaeda Threat - Thanks, Deb
Mansfield News Journal: Irish fighter's story might just make a movie worth standing in line to see - Thanks, Rita
The Daily Telegraph thanks to Chattles: My day on the phone with a beautiful mind - By DEAN RITCHIE
From Cindy: Fifty Greatest Movie Stars Ever -- "Still haven't received my Premiere mag, but someone at Oscarwatch posted the list. Russell is #49, just ahead of Brad Pitt at #50. Nicole is just ahead of Russell at #48, Johnny Depp just ahead of her at #47."
From Sue:The Empire Awards (mentioned in yesterday's news) are on Channel 5 (UK) at 10:55 pm Tuesday 15th.
Most of the Oz videos on Russell and Footy at ninemsn. Do a search for Russell Crowe. (Weidler's World has a nice interview)
Joblo: Rebels on the backlot -- (Book review of Sharon Waxman's new book) - "Did you know that Peter Jackson was being considered for FIGHT CLUB and that there was talk of Russell Crowe playing TYLER DURDEN?" - Thanks, Allison
From Myer: Craig Bierko (who played Max Baer) is on Broadway in a play called Modern Orthodox, very funny. (Francesca of Craigbierkofans.com reports that he has already left the show. His last day was March 6)
March 10
Newsweek/ MSNBC: Talk Transcript: Oscar Wrap-up (Scroll for mention of next year's possibilities.) Thanks, Mary
The Australian: Crowe nails knockout contract for Rabbitohs - Thanks, barbiecat
Russell will appear on the Footy Show on Sunday March 13, after the first Souths game on Saturday. - Thanks, Cindy
This from Sue B: "...We only caught a partial discussion (On threat) on both "Today" and "Good Morning America". My concern is that Katie Couric's questioning was in the vein of questioning Russell's veracity. Diane Sawyer's coverage was, understandably, softer. When Katie Couric shoved a microphone in Russell's face after he won the oscar, he brushed her off and said, "I don't know you" in his emphatic way. It might be helpful if Wendy Day could be reminded of that encounter...."
The New Yorker, page 126 -- PORTFOLIO - GRECIAN FORMULA - Fashion's classical moment. BY MICHAEL ROBERTS -- "First, it was "Gladiator"; now it's Gaultier. Given the Sophoclean incestuousness of film's relationship to fashion, it is no surprise that Hollywood's recent obsession with all things Greco-Roman has suddenly popped up on the runway. The advent of what one mythologically astute fashion editor has called the "glamazon" look (pleats, togainspired draping, laced sandals) suggests that designers from Donna Karan to Miuccia Prada have been brushing up on the works of Russell Crowe - if not, perhaps, those of Cicero."
Two related guys up for best British actor at the Empire Awards: Paul Bettany for Wimbledon - This year Bettany extended his foray into comedy (after his show stealing turn in A Knight's Tale), bringing his strawberry blonde charm and showing the rest of the world what Jennifer Connelly sees in him. Rigorous physical training probably helped, too…Paddy Considine for Dean Man's Shoes - A performance to go in the 'seriously pissed off' hall of fame. Paddy's probably sick of being attached to the adjective 'intense', but it really is the word that everyone is left with when the lights come up - and now there's a nomination to prove it. (ed note: A fav of mine, Daniel Craig, is in there too)
From Movie City News: One Of Those "Dead News Week" Stories from Variety -- "Searchlight's Short Sheeted Schedule... (Thanks, Bea) Oddly Goes Without Mentioning Eucalyptus, Which Would Have Filled Out The Schedule, Been The Division's Biggest Investment Ever, With The Biggest Stars Ever & Was An Expected Oscar Candidate"
New Images from irmi - yesterday's conference - Pretty darn nice! -- Photo credits: AP and EPA.
Ninemsn Video - Click on Crowe offers to buy Souths. Thanks, Karen
The SMH -- Nice story on Jack Thompson: A one-time pin-up boy is now a proud "old fart", writes Garry Maddox. - Thanks, Lyubka
From the story in the SMH - Crowe sees an ad trend. - Explanation of the new opeing date for CM in Australia: "...Cinderella Man is scheduled for release nationally on October 14, following its opening in the US, Europe and Asia. Crowe said he would have preferred the film to be released sooner. "I would have preferred it to be in the middle of the football season," the actor said. "I would actually prefer it was this Friday." - Thanks, Rita
The Daily Telegraph: Crowe queries branched out -- "FROM the smile on Russell Crowe's face when he walked into the packed press conference to reveal details of a sponsorship deal with his beloved Rabbitohs, the actor looked in the mood for a bit of sparring practice. And he didn't leave disappointed." - Thanks, Rita
From Mike: "The Today Show [USA] had the FBI story on with a rep from GQ and a former FBI agent. The former agent denied that the FBI would ever send bodyguards to protect a movie star. But could not prove otherwise."
From the Rabbitohs web site: Russell Crowe’s ‘Cinderella Man’ joins Real Insurance as Major Sponsor of the Rabbitohs - Thanks, Rita
BBC Wales: Icons from Wales: "We like tenuous links. Tenuous links are good. How else would we get Hollywood star Russell Crowe into a Welsh hall of fame, apart from mentioning that his grandfather was from Wrexham?"...
IMdb Daily Poll:What's been the best Best Actor performance of the past five years? - Thanks, Kris C
Oscar-winning actor Russell Crowe stands with South Sydney Rugby League players Adam MacDougall, left, and Bryan Fletcher, right, during a press conference in Sydney, Thursday, March 10, 2005. (See images HERE) Crowe announced that the name of his new film "Cinderella Man" would be emblazoned on his favorite team's jersey for a two month period later in the season. (AP Photo/Mark Baker) - Watch for it at ninemsn's Footy Show Web Site shortly. - Thanks, Melody at Aussie Books - More images from the announcement at Getty Images
Seven News: Crowe still committed to Eucalyptus - Thanks, Penny
Coffs Coast Advocate: CONTRARY to Sydney media reports, Orara Valley’s movie star Russell Crowe has pledged compensation money to former Test star Mark Geyer for injuries sustained at the sevens tournament which the Oscar-winner underwrote. - Thanks, Rita
March 9
Countdown with Keith Olbermann' for March 8 (More al-Qaeda) Also in the Guardian and everywhere else in the world!- Thanks, Laura
From Cindy: Just saw this great review of new UK Special Edition of Romper Stomper at the Monsters & Critics site. Gives it 4 1/2 stars.
7news video: Click on Crowe sponsors Rabbitohs -- "Actor Russell Crowe will sponsor South Sydney for the first eight rounds of the NRL season." Thanks, vsecin
Article on CM in the Spanish Magazine Imagenes, March issue. Translated by Virginiamanis
The Daily Telegraph au: -- From 3/10 - Features; Competition - "Watt a giveaway" - with Michael Bodey: "Well, the latest from Russell Crowe, Cinderella Man, has been bumped back from a June release into October, which unofficially is the beginning of the Oscar campaigning season. Initially, there were fears the other boxing film, Million Dollar Baby, might steal the thunder from Ron Howard's period piece about heavyweight boxer, Jim Braddock (Crowe, pictured below left)." Thanks, Crowe Fan [Since this is an Australian paper, this might refer to the Australian opening]
Film Threat: A student-made movie spoof - A BEAUTIFUL MIND . . . OF A GLADIATOR - Thanks, rose
A few laughs for this morning -- Thanks to chattles, from spoof.com: Russell Crowe Was Target of Denzel Washington and Julia Roberts Plot
The Daily Telegraph: (More info on a previous story) - Redfern goes to Hollywood - By JAMES HOOPER - March 10, 2005 -- OSCAR winner Russell Crowe has brokered a $250,000 sponsorship deal between South Sydney and Hollywood to help promote his new blockbuster film Cinderella Man. - Thanks, Rita
From
the Lonny Chapman Group Repertory Theatre in LA, a new play: Killing
Russell Crowe - Written by: Jeremy Kehoe - Thanks, barbiecat
The SMH: "Crowe will appear with members of the NRL club at a press call tomorrow and is believed to be announcing the plan in which Cinderella Man will be advertised on the team's jersey." - Thanks, Anne from CA
Related -- Nine MSN: Warne nominated for comeback award
Also at NineMSN, a video on the kidnapping plot. Thanks, vsecin - Same story at the IMdb news section - Thanks, Kris C.
From Laura: "Tonight I had on MSNBC's 'Countdown' program, and they did a short spot on Russ and the al-Queda kidnapping plot. They quoted the GQ article, showed a few clips from Gladiator, and had a graphic in the background that said 'Targetus Maximus' with a picture of Russ in 'Gladiator'. The host (Keith Olbermann) ended with the "I never understood what the **** was going on." quote from Russ, and Olbermann then said, "That makes two of us." -- The subject came up a little later with an analyst discussing al-Queda. They showed another clip of Russ at some awards show, and ended up saying that there really are a few "moron terrorists" out there who dream up crazy ideas like this, thinking they could actually cause some kind of 'cultural destabilization' of America by kidnapping an Australian, and that the FBI wouldn't have assigned manpower to guarding Russ if they hadn't thought it was a credible threat." - It is also mentioned in the Countdown blog, item three. also thanks to Jan
Aussie Rugby League in the USA: Watch the South Sydney Rabbitohs vs Sydney Roosters on Fox Sports Channel (not on site as yet) Friday, March 18 at 1 -3 AM EST. Carol S.
March 8
Inside Edition TV: (An old story rehashed): Al Qaeda Threat? -- A stunning admission from actor Russell Crowe… he says the FBI told him he was the target of Al Qaeda kidnap plot in 2001. Inside Edition's Stacey Gualandi takes a look at the Oscar winner’s dramatic revelation. - Thanks, Allison
The Daily Telegraph: SIX-PACK -- WHY Osama Bin Laden is out to get Russell Crowe: 1. Wasted $30 on the Thirty-Odd Foot of Grunts' album -- 2. Has always been a big fan of Mark Geyer's -- 3. Apart from LA Confidential, thinks all his films are ordinary -- 4. Excuse to mastermind the dramas on Eucalyptus -- 5. Was planning to buy that block near Coffs but Russ pinged him at the post -- 6. In a clever bid for world sympathy, is targeting Kiwis. (Thanks, Crowe fan)
The Daily Telegraph: Rusty teaches his mate a lesson - By DEAN RITCHIE Rugby League Writer -- "...But Crowe – who put up prize money for the tournament – said "Spud" Carroll, another former Test star, had accepted full blame for ignoring his advice to get the players insured. - Another version from the SMH: Crowe not to blame: Spud -- Thanks all who sent this in.
From Beej: "Here's a heads up for any Aussie rugby league fans in the UK who have sky. The first game of the season will be on this coming Saturday, 12th March, on Sky Sports 3. It's between Sydney Roosters and South Sydney Rabbitohs. Come on you bunnies, get up early and watch. Game starts at 8.30am and it's live."
Ninemsn - Part Two of "what went wrong with the Australian film industry" now up. (Click on "movies" on left) Thanks, vsecin
March 7
Coffs
Harbour Advocate: "RUSSELL
Crowe was up to his old tricks again on Friday night, leaving the
security of his Nana Glen property to pay a surprise visit to his local
watering hole, the Coffs Hotel." Thanks, susie
From an Aussie fan: "Russell Crowe news on the morning TV 'News' both about Mark Geyer and the GQ story about al-Qaeda. Channel 9 has a TV crew outside W'Loo Wharf and they are trying to get hold of him. Richard Wilkins mentioned it on his segment."
Daniela contacted the journalist who wrote the Italian article mentioned earlier today to ask the news source.... "he indicated to me the source and I checked... well, the source said Russ would play Shackleton (and not Hurley...) but it was a 2001 news (the movie would have been filmed at the beginning of 2002....)" - [So...no Hurley...looked good for awhile, though]
The Daily Telegraph: (From the GQ article) IN one of the more bizarre terror plots hatched by al-Qaeda, Australian actor Russell Crowe was the target of a kidnapping scheme as part of a "cultural destabilisation plan". - Thanks, barbiecat
The Daily Telegraph au: Geyer: Crowe abandoned me - By DEAN RITCHIE Rugby League Writer - [Could use the other side of this story] - Thanks, Daniela
Reuters UK: Kidman to star in Arbus biopic - Thanks, Linda K, Daniela
The International Film Festival of Mountains “Città di Trento” will open with an historical movie "South: Ernest Shackleton and the Endurance Expedition" by Frank Hurley, the Australian photographer hired by the Anglo-Irish explorer Shackleton for the famous imperial Endurance expedition to Antarctica in 1914, and that Russell Crowe is said to play in a movie to come. Reported in the Italian Newspaper La Dige (See news below for earlier story. This is the source information)
Reuters/The Hollywood Reporter: Boxing Still a Powerful Draw for Filmmakers -- "...The sport has drama-ready elements inside the ring, but what makes the sport attractive to Hollywood is that it allows for great storytelling outside the ring. From "The Champ," with its father-son love tale, to the upcoming "Cinderella Man," featuring Russell Crowe as beloved Depression-era boxer Jim Braddock, a struggling family man who serves as inspiration to a downtrodden country, the sport appeals to filmmakers and moviegoers because it presents such universal themes as hope and upward social mobility." - Thanks, Allison, Daniela
Related: One of Russell co-stars in starts a new ABC series this week:Tuesday night television premieres a show, Blind Justice, starring Ron Eldard, Skank in Mystery Alaska. Thank, Janet from Tucson
At Amazon, a DVD upcoming:Cinderella Man: Real Jim Braddock Story - Thanks, Ivani
Funny! (Warning - All satire) -- Dateline Hollywood – One week after Oscars host Chris Rock infuriated Sean Penn, the actor has decided to create a foundation that will protect celebrities who find themselves the target of comedians. - Thanks, Ivani
Probably in the wishful thinking department, but Daniela reports that an Italian newspaper says that Russell will play Frank Hurley (The Shackleton expedition photographer) - Info on Hurley -- and his photographs of the Endurance -- From the State Library of NSW - Hurley's WW1 photographs (Extraordinary).... Death, the Reaper 1917’ is rivalled by few other photographs in its blatant expression of misery, loss and hopelessness. The body of a young soldier lies crumpled in a ditch in the foreground, the surrounding landscape nothing but a chaotic mess of bodies, fallen trees and mud. Info on the exhibition.
March 6
Uk TV Alert: From croweseyes -- "Just to let you know that Proof of Life will be shown on UKTV next Saturday on Channel 4/5 at 9.15pm."
From Rita - Vogue Australia April 1993
From the Fresno Bee: 'Starlet' rubs more luster off Faye Dunaway Some RC mentions- Thanks to Kris C, who penned a reply to the paper (See at bottom of article)
The Sun-Herald: Tune the real thing -- SOUTHS bosses Nick Pappas and Shane Richardson are delighted with their Russell Crowe-penned victory song and will use it all season. The catchy war cry is a combination of The Real Thing - written by Johnny Young, performed by Russell Morris and produced by Molly Meldrum - and the traditional Glory, Glory to South Sydney. The music was recorded and mixed by Lachlan Mitchell, leader of the heavy metal band Brace. - More from February on this: Russell's the Real Thing
Ninemsn: Video - What's wrong with the Australian Film industry? Part 1 indepth look - excellent! - with some familir faces - Thanks vsecin
March 5
There is an article in The Sun-Herald Page 79 Books: "The power of a whisper campaign" By Erin O'Dwyer, mentioning Eucalyptus, Da Vinci Code, "the troubled Luther Fox playing his dirt music" (Hope have it transcribed later)
Sue has sent in the scan from the EW cartoon
Gladiator weekend on TNT - Thanks all who sent this in (Warning. It will probably have commercial breaks)
I was cleaning out my massive Crowe files and found the 1999 GQ article. So I "ocr'd" the text and scanned the images. Enjoy this most revealing interview. (Another version is still available, as it has been since 1999, at Maximum Crowe)
Entertainment Weekly's The Hit List has a caricature of Rusty in a trench coat flashing young Queen Elizabeth. Here's the text. -- "Filming on Eucalyptus postponed. One reason? Russell Crowe's objection to a scene where he exposes himself to Queen Elizabeth. That's okay. I'm sure she's willing to wait." Thanks, susiek, eve
March 4
From Cheryl: "From the Daily Mail UK. Watch out for...Russell Crowe, who is mulling over whether or not to star in the film of Stephen Sondheim's Sweeney Todd."
Quite a lot of Crowe films on USA TV this month - Thanks, roe
The SMH: Better Late - The Memory of Running -- "Asked who should play Ide in the movie, he nominates "Australian" Russell Crowe. "He'd be terrific. He has this chameleon-like ability to climb into a part - though I think the director, Alfonso Cuaron, prefers to have an unknown play Ide and stars [as] the people he meets." - Thanks, Linda K
IMdb Daily Poll: Who should be the next James Bond in the 21st Bond flick, Casino Royale? - Thanks, Kris C
March 3
The Glass Castle - A Time Magazine favorable review of a hard hitting new memoir by our favorite gossip lady, Jeannette Walls
BBC World - Talking Movies (Video) With the Oscars behind us, while thoughts of this year's winners are still fresh in your mind, Manoush Zomorodi has been taking at look at who might be in the running for an Oscar next year. Yes it's a very, very early preview of Oscars 2006! - Thanks, Anne S
Dave
Poland, MCN: Four
Days After -- "Best Actor - Joaquin Phoenix for Walk The Line
vs. Russell Crowe for Cinderella Man vs. Sean Penn for All The Kings Men
vs. Jake Gyllenhaal for Jarhead." - Thanks, barbiecat
Thanks to Tina - Life, February 28 - That flannel shirt!
The Daily Telegraph: "A last-minute lopping - The literary world is aflutter with word that author Murray Bail has just missed out on a once in a lifetime paycheque. As the author of Eucalyptus, which was to film in Bellingen and Sydney with Russell Crowe, Nicole Kidman and Hugo Weaving, Bail (pictured) would have been due an estimated $500,000. But film deals are usually structured so the bulk of such a payment only falls on the first day of principal photography. Eucalyptus was officially postponed one day before principal photography." - Thanks, Crowe Fan
The Toronto Sun: Mixed year for T.O. film scene - Studios spend more cash in T.O. in 2004, but make fewer movies - Thanks, Allison
Albany Times Union: Boxing 'Cinderella' remembered on film and in real life - Thanks, Cindy, Allison
Film Stew: Intertops Already Making Blockbuster Odds -- Bookmaking web site predicts that Warner Bros.' Batman Begins will be the top contender of the summer. - "...From fantastic to realistic, the long shots include: Mr. and Mrs. Smith, starring Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, at 40/1 and Cinderella Man, the real life story of depression era fighter Jim Braddock played by Russell Crowe, at 80-1."
March 2
Thanks to a fan - A page on Blood Brothers
Hellenic News of America: "The Insider" starring Russell Crowe & Al Pacino - Complimentary showing of the Oscar nominated movie"The Insider"starring Russell Crowe & Al Pacino - Monday Night, March 7, 2005 --- "Due to Jeffrey Wigand's visit to Delaware County, sponsored by the Delaware County Tobacco-Free Coalition with thanks to funding by the Delaware County Office of Behavioral Health and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, he has graciously accepted the Press Club invitation to speak at the luncheon. In order that we get the most benefit of Wigand's appearance, it was important to make the film "The Insider" available and thanks to Press Club Member Lorraine DellaFranco , Senior VP Sales & Marketing of Martins Run, they are providing their Movie Room complete with Popcorn and Soda! We thank them all for their generosity and support of this program."
European TV Alert from Ann S: For the German fans among us, could you please mention that the German TV station ZDF will be showing Heaven's Burning at 1.40 am on the night from Thursday to Friday. The film is rarely shown here in Europe.
No Neighbours for Russell -- Spike at the SMH: "Right up Russ's street -- Given Russell Crowe has some spare time on his paws following the collapse of Eucalyptus, we wondered what he's planning. And then a lightning bolt: yesterday ananova.com reported the gladiator will star in a one-off special celebrating the 20th anniversary of Neighbours (Click for picture). Russ appeared on the show in the '80s. Alas, a Crowe spokeswoman has nixed rumours of a cameo reprise. "I have heard nothing about that," she told Spike. "I think it would be highly unlikely and I don't think there's absolutely anything in it." - Thanks, barbiecat
The Daily Telegraph: Murmurs . . .March 3, 2005 - SPOTTED: Russell Crowe and wife Danielle taking their son Charlie Boonker for a stroll in Centennial Park on Tuesday... - Thanks, Chattles
Marcy writes that Maximus was also in the opening Oscar montage.
From Anne S: "The new De Niro film Hide and Seek is coming out in Belgium this week. I read an article about him and one paragraph just caught my eye as it referred to De Niro's ads campaign for Amex. After Russ' remark about it, I thought it was interessing to get another input on the matter. It seems that Amex is the principal sponsor of De Niro Tribeca festival.... Hereunder is the English translation of the paragraph: "So for the first time since the sixties, when he was just a young actor following very precisely Brian de Palma's directions on the Wedding Party set and willing to shoot some ads for a few hundreds bucks, De Niro agreed to walk for an ad. But, as usual, he refused any dialogue. Walking down the streets of NY, De Niro watches, expressionless and in black and white, the nostaligic camera of Scorsese. Simple and effective. However, De Niro signed the catch phrase ('My life, my card), a brand characteristic. Taking part to this ad is less surprising than first thought: Indeed, American Express is the principal and active sponsor of the Tribeca Film Festival, created by De Niro in Manhattan in May 2002."
March 1
Film Force: The Stax Report's "Paranoia" Edition - "A Beautiful Mind, 2001, dir. Ron Howard. This psychological drama won Academy Awards for Best Picture, Director, Supporting Actress, and Adapted Screenplay. It's a complex and emotionally turbulent biopic of Nobel Prize-winning mathematician John Forbes Nash Jr. (Russell Crowe) that chronicles the genius' debilitating struggle with schizophrenia. The excellent supporting cast includes Jennifer Connelly as Nash's wife Alicia, Ed Harris as an enigmatic federal agent, Christopher Plummer as a shrink who comes to Nash's aid, and scene-stealer Paul Bettany as Nash's school chum...." - Thanks, Allison
NY Newsday: (Related) Swank's KO makes gym proud, baby -- "Actor Craig Bierko, a 2000 Tony nominee and onetime People mag Sexiest Broadway Star, just completed training there for a role opposite Russell Crowe in the coming film "The Cinderella Man..." - Thanks, Allison
An aside - In the opening montage sequence for the Oscars, we saw Jeffrey Wigand, John Nash and the Surprise.
A heart-warming boxing story from Philly.com - Scroll for a mention of Dundee and Russell. - Thanks, Crowe Fan
From Pam M: "Russell and George Clooney were highlighted in E!”s “The Soup” last Friday and it also re-broadcast throughout the week. An amusing segment featuring the two in a mock phone conversation based on the GQ interview and Clooney’s response. Terrible accents but hey, “The Soup” has nothing to do with talent….."
Crikey.com.au: Oscar humour from Chris Rock - Thanks, Anne S
Off Topic from Crikey.com, but of interest: Oscars crash and burn for Nine
DAVID GERMAIN, AP Movie Writer - What's
in Store for Next Year's Oscars?
- "Cinderella Man" — Oscar winners Russell Crowe (news)
and Renee Zellweger star in the story of Depression-era boxer Jim Braddock,
who gets a second chance in the ring. The academy loves underdog stories,
Ron Howard ("A Beautiful Mind") directs and Crowe punches people
out.
From Fiddlegirl: "Just wanted to let you know that Cinderella Man was featured briefly on BBC America's "Talking Movies" this morning in a segment about next year's Oscar contenders. This show is usually run several times throughout the week, so I'm sure it will be on again soon." (Click in the web site for show times)
Thanks to Splatnext and Darrin Lee, video of the whole Russell segment of Chris Rock's Oscar comments. via the Perch and MR Boards (Windows Media Player)
The UK Sun: Crowe's Neighbours role -- HOLLYWOOD star Russell Crowe has taken a break from his multi-million dollar movie career – to star in TV special celebrating the 20th anniversary of Neighbours. - Thanks, LindaK
Houston Chronicle Blog: MeMo: Oscars, burritos and Rodeo boots - Thanks, Allison
Film Force: Flora Plum Is Dead - Foster project falls apart... again. - Thanks, LindaK, Allison
Oscar Watch - Checking in with Kris -- Predicts 13 noms for Cinderella Man (Scroll) - Thanks, MaggieMac
February 28
Lizzie at Crowetopia has the partial video of Chris Rock praising Russell and Empire on line has a partial version of Rock's opening monologue (Thanks, Rita)
Variety on last night's show - And another article on Film in 2005 (CM and Euc mentioned)Thanks, Bea