April 30

The Australian: Editorial (Boo Hiss!!) - Any bunny can win an Oscar -- "...Then again, when it comes to the Oscars, the field is considerably wider. Premierships are restricted to the 16 clubs and their respective players who take the field in the NRL. Oscars are available to anyone who fancies themselves as an actor, which helps explain why the likes of Helen Hunt and Jeremy Irons [!!!] have gongs. And that should give hope to all Souths supporters, particularly Crowe. Because if Hunt and Irons can win Oscars, then surely a premiership is not beyond even Souths." - Thanks, Allison

Having some creative fun...

Dangerlion Blog: Je taime -- I’m writing my final paper in “Contemporary French Cinema.”  I’m investigating the “cinema du blockbuster” that is now prevalent in France. ... “Who directed ‘A bout truffaut mon’?” I asked, but again she wasn’t sure.  “Aren’t you the film student?” she remarked.  “An actor in the film?” I asked insistently.  Her face lit up.  “Russell Crowe!”  I was perplexed.  I wasn’t aware Russell Crowe was a cast member in any recent French productions.  I sounded out the film’s title and then…I understood.  The French expatriate’s favorite film was not French at all; it was actually 2002 Academy Award Best Picture-winner “A Beautiful Mind.”  The film, whose $60 million budget was financed by Hollywood studio Universal Pictures, was shot in New York and New Jersey by Ron Howard, former child star-cum-director of highly-visible and large-budgeted studio films (i.e. “Apollo 13,” “The DaVinci Code”).(Wikipedia.org)  “Really?”  I asked, failing to mask the inherent pretense.  She responded defensively, “I don’t like French movies.  They’re so boring.  I love Russell Crowe.”  Unbeknownst to me at the time, this was a great introduction to contemporary French cinema. - Thanks, Cindy

The LA Times: Can Leo actually hurt a script sale? "-- A 'meaningful' attachment is always a plus in our minds, because it's one piece of the puzzle closer," says Derek Haas, who penned "3:10 to Yuma" and "Wanted" with writing partner Michael Brandt. " 'Meaningful' meaning there's a handful of guys, an even smaller handful of actresses, and a handful of directors that a studio would say, 'We're going to go make this movie with this guy, just get us a script that we can greenlight.' Now, if it was a mid-level guy or a mid-level director, then there is a downside, because all of a sudden you're in a game where maybe the studio doesn't want to make a movie with that guy. So you're just eliminating potential buyers."

From Jean L: "I am in South Korea for a few weeks teaching pilates and I got a bit lost yesterday looking for a temple... but I did find this poster that I thought you might find amusing!"

April 29

NRL News.com: Souths - As the Crowe flies - "...Being serious for a moment, the intervention of Russell Crowe certainly can’t hurt South Sydney at the moment. Russell might be a little bit edgy with some of the stunts he pulls, but his personality and undeniable passion for Souths could really help the players and regardless of how he gets involved - chances are pretty good that it will do more good than harm. So stand by, expect to see Russell Crowe come to the aid of his beloved team soon. As they say, “All we need is love!” - Thanks, Maria

Fox Sports Au: Crowe not worried about his bunnies - As the cracks within the club widened to a gaping chasm, after five-eighth Ben Rogers publicly bagged his coach for dumping him from first grade, Crowe sent a message of optimism from Hollywood. The Daily Telegraph emailed Crowe asking for a comment on the Rabbitohs' drama-filled start to the year. Crowe emailed back: "Nice to hear from you. Not the best start to a season I'll give you that, but we will get better as the season unfolds." - Thanks, Steph

April 28

The Independent: Yuma on UK TV: "Lewis hopes to shake up an industry set in its ways by taking these sorts of risks, and encourages others to do the same. Though they have less to gamble with than the big studios, small independents such as Artificial Eye can benefit from reaching Sky's customer base. Lionsgate is also on board, and in May subscribers can watch 3:10 to Yuma starring Russell Crowe and Christian Bale and War, an action flick with Jason Statham and Jet Li, much earlier than they would under normal release conditions." - Thanks, Allison

Tenderness: According to the IMDb, Tenderness will open in these countries. There is no specific release date for the USA:

April 27

The Boston Globe lists this summer's movies - No mention of Tenderness

Constant Crowe Updates:  Sarah has added a new multi-character Illustrated Song to her collection set to Bruce Springsteen's "Magic"!  Click here to go directly to her page!  Also, a ton of screencaps and reports from Friday night's game at the Bunnies Forum!  -Cheers, Darrin

April 26

Movies About.com: Interview with James Woods - Whose work still knocks you out? -- " There are a lot of people who do. As directors, the Coen Brothers knock me out. They are phenomenal, just great filmmakers. As actors, Russell Crowe I always find very compelling. If you take away the tabloid stuff, and the big movie stuff, like "Gladiator," if you look at his work in "LA Confidential," I thought he was fantastic, and really good in "The Insider" - and terrific in "Gladiator," by the way. It's not easy to do that stuff seriously. You have to get over the sand and sandals kind of clichéd look and do it with a commitment, which he did. It's not easy to do." - Thanks, Cindy, Allison, Steph

Times on line UK: The sorry state of masculinity in American movies -- Russell Crowe is still flying a lone flag for the macho hero, though he hasn’t had a truly square-cut role since Master and Commander... - Thanks, Allison

Nova Scotia News: A little shop in Harrietsfield is adding big-time film producers to the list of demanding collectors seeking its historically accurate reproductions of weapons of war, coins and cannons. The company helped outfit Johnny Depp as Jack Sparrow for the Pirates of the Caribbean film series and also decked out Russell Crowe for the film Master and Commander: Far Side of the World. - Thanks, Allison

Celebrity Babies: Russell and Charlie after lunch - Thanks, Allison

April 25

The SMH: People Entertainment -- (Scroll) CARING CROWE -- Russell Crowe's lush bush retreat at Nana Glen, near Coffs Harbour, has become something of a sanctuary for the actor's beleaguered high-profile mates. PS hears that legal eagle and sometime day trader Chris Murphy has been taking full advantage of Crowe's hospitality, spending the school holidays there with his partner Agnes Bruck and the kids. No doubt the break will do Murphy good, having spent the past few weeks looking for the millions he lost in the Opes Prime debacle. Meanwhile, Bruck has been busy making her own investments, recently shelling out $60,000 for a country shack in sunny Manilla, near Tamworth, which could best be described as "character-filled".

Axemen Web Site: Spinner [Howard] Heads to Australia to propose Australia Day Game in 2009 -- Spinner will spend 6 days in Sydney during which time he will meet with Souths to see what it needed to get the game back in 2009. He will also attend the April 14th game when the Rabbitohs take on the Cronulla Sharks. A full report and the start of the Axemen season will begin on his return on April 25th. - Thanks, Trina

Another loss! -- Brisbane 32 Souths 18 - Thanks, CGee

NY Post - Cindy Adams - (Scroll) ". . . Great househusband Russell Crowe does a whole supermarket in six minutes." - Thanks, Kris C

April 24

From the NY Times Archives - Reviews of Russell's early films

The Guardian UK: Gladiator ad is homage to Russell Crowe epic (Video) -- "Sky One has drawn on Russell Crowe epic Gladiator, down to using the same amphitheatre featured in the hit film, as inspiration for the TV ad campaign to promote the return of Gladiators next month." - Thanks, Steph

GulfCoasting Live: Silver Screen Musings: Oh, no! Not Robin Hood again - Ridley Scott, who you might remember as the director of "Gladiator" (Dreamworks; 2000), is filming a new Robin Hood movie, slated for release Summer 2009. The only actor he has signed so far is his favorite star (seeing that this would be their fourth movie together), Russell Crowe. Why, oh, why? Is there really a need for another Robin Hood movie? What else can you add to the story? -- Thanks, Allison

April 23

Wenn Photos - Russell and the boys in LA - Thanks, Steph

April 22

Related: (I didn't know this) - The Hollywood Reporter: Jeff Daniels -- Sam Mendes comedy adds cast --- "... Daniels just wrapped "State of Play" for Universal. Emmy winner O'Hara most recently lent her voice to "Where the Wild Things Are" for Warner Bros. Both are repped by ICM."

YouTube Video: Shamrockfest 08 (Russell Crowe, Great Big Sea & Carbon Leaf) - Thanks, Linda K

Orange au: Bunnies’ start catches supporters on the hop -- SOUTH Sydney may have started the NRL season with six straight losses, but Dave Anderson says Rabbitohs' supporters have developed pretty thick skin over the years. To be fair, Bunnies fans have had to. - Thanks, Steph

From Jackie in Amsterdam: Bakfiets Cargo Bike -- "I was cycling to work yesterday, got on the ferry to the city centre, and I saw a dad with 2 small boys on/in a bike like in the attached pic. Now isn't that the ideal solution for Russell? He can have his exercise and spend quality time with the boys! These type bikes are all the rage in Amsterdam for young parents, you have bigger ones too that can transport up to six small children. They're quite amazing! Kids love them, too. I think they can actually be ordered online."

April 21

The Herald Sun: SOUTH Sydney are planning to forge ahead with a return trip to America in 2009, despite concerns from players that this year's Florida trial disrupted their pre-season. - Thanks, Steph

The Daily Telegraph: Legends call for loyalty - SOUTH Sydney champions Mario Fenech and Craig Coleman last night made a plea from the heart for unity, loyalty and resolve after the Rabbitohs' disastrous season-opening six-game losing streak. Their comments come as Souths co-owner Peter Holmes a Court sent a message to suffering fans: "My heart goes out to you". - Thanks, Steph

April 20

A script review for Nick Cave's script of a proposed Gladiator 2 - "Russell Crowe to Empire (AU): “At first I was very cynical about that notion [of a Gladiator sequel], but I’ve come around on it. We’ve had other ideas too, where we step off into the metaphysical and you actually acknowledge the fact that Maximus is dead [laughs], but that is a hard script to write. Nick Cave actually wrote a draft for me and Ridley [Scott] at one point. He’s an excellent writer, man. Nick did this draft and Ridley and I considered it for a while.” -- Thanks, Cindy--- Gladiator 2 Script Review « Gone Elsewhere 

rabbitohs.com.au: Disheartening news - Tigers 30 defeat Rabbitohs 10 - Thanks, CGee

April 19

Gladiator and art related -- The Guggenheim in Bilboa (Spain): Nine Discourses on Commodus (Nueve discursos sobre Cómodo) -- In the winter of 1963, in the city of Rome, Cy Twombly completed a cycle of nine paintings depicting the historical figure Commodus (161 - 192 AD). Commodus, the son of Marcus Aurelius, became Emperor of the Roman Empire in 180 AD, at the head of a government that generated great instability and eventually brought about the decline of the prosperity of the Roman Empire. His tyrannical ways would give rise to conspiracies that would eventually lead to his own assassination and civil war in Rome. The esthetic composition of these paintings represents a chaotic order, intended to describe the political and social situation surrounding Commodus. .... More - Thanks, Rose

The Daily Telegraph: Star's 'brilliant' Crowe role (R Downey) RUSSELL Crowe's notoriety in Hollywood has reached such heights that he has been lampooned by a fellow A-list actor in an upcoming movie blockbuster. - Thanks, Steph, Maria - Also a bit more in the Herald Sun

Todd-n-Odd Blog: Hollyweird comes to Mt. Pleasant - Thanks, barbiecat

April 18

From Ivani: Youtube has 2 videos with Behind The Scenes of American Gangster: One and Two

April 17

Constant Crowe Update: Sarah has made a new Illustrated Song set to Show Of Hands' "Cars"!  I think you'll be able to guess the theme.  Click here to go directly to her page!  -Cheers, Darrin 

Flixter has a bunch of photos of Russell from his films - lots of early ones there.

Variety: Related -- WB taps Ridley Scott for 'Kind One' -- "Ridley Scott will direct and produce period noir drama "The Kind One" for Warner Bros. Casey Affleck is attached to star in the film, which is based on a novel by Tom Epperson, who will pen the screenplay. Story, set in 1930s Los Angeles, centers on an amnesiac who finds himself working for a mobster -- a killer given the nickname "the Kind One" -- and falling in love with the thug's girlfriend. Scott and Jules Daly are producing for Scott Free; Ideaology's Sean Bailey ("Gone Baby Gone") is also producing. "It's a world that Ridley has never touched before, so that's what drew him to the project," said Daly, who worked with Affleck when she produced "The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford." Scott's "Body of Lies," starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Russell Crowe, is scheduled to be released by Warners in the fall."

Cinematical: Film Clips: On Why the 'Atlas Shrugged' Film Should Be Canned --- "...Then I read this interview over on The Atlasphere with John Aglialoro, producer and CEO of Cybex, International, who paid $1 million for the film rights to Atlas. This interview, which was conducted in February, had some interesting tidbits in it. Is Angelina Jolie, supposedly playing Dagny Taggart, committed to the project, even if her rumored (but yet unconfirmed) pregnancy turned out to be an issue? She is, according to the interview, and has signed a letter of intent. Okay, fine. Aglialoro also confirms that there have been conversations with Russell Crowe to play Hank Rearden, which would be swell ... I can see Crowe in that role. He also talks about when filming will commence (late 2008 or early 2009) and what the budget is ($70 million), and mentions as an aside that they're trying to get credit for Objectivist David Kelley of The Objectivist Center as a co-producer or writer as well." - Thanks, Steph

Film Stew: Translating Tales of Violent Teens (Tenderness) - The movies have a funny way of sometimes thrusting upon us someone previously unknown, with not one but several samples of their perceived expertise. Such is the case with Australian born screenwriter Emil Stern, the writer behind this Friday’s Uma Thurman-Evan Rachel Wood drama The Life Before Her Eyes and the forthcoming Russell Crowe drama Tenderness, slated for release later this year by Lionsgate.

April 16

YouTube: Luciano Pavarotti sings Il Gladiatore - Thanks, Caco and DotyFrance

EW Gallery: Man vs beast. Who Wins? - RUSSELL CROWE VS. TIGERS - #15 - Thanks, Allison, Jean

Tamara saw the preview of BOL too - Her report is HERE

The IMDb BOL Board: "I just came back from that Pasadena screening and I gotta say, my friend and I both thoroughly enjoyed the film. Leo was great. As he usually always is. But, in my opinion, I really couldn't distinguish his character in this one to the one he played in Blood Diamond... except maybe a bit different in accent wise. Was it Oscar worthy? Definitely. But I doubt he'll win it. As for Russell Crowe, his screen time wasn't as much as Leo's but when he was on, he did entertain us. But not enough to even deserve a nomination. My friend and I both agreed that Mark Strong deserves a Supporting Actor nomination for his role and definitely deserves to win it [ed note: ital mine. I love Mark Strong since Fever Pitch and our Friends in the North](well, depends on other nominees). The character probably had more to do with it but he definitely made his presence shown on screen. As for the movie itself... it was very well present[ed]. There were a lot of times when the whole audience was sitting at the edge of their seats. Movies about 150 minutes long but seriously, we didn't feel it, And yes, this movie will definitely be rated-R. Some scenes were... pretty gruesome. I do highly recommend the movie though. Definitely catch it on opening weekend." - Thanks, Cindy

In a story today in The NY Times on Zooey Deschanel and her music, these lines appear: “And unlike the work of other actors-cum-musicians - Russell Crowe's various pub-rock acts for example - the album doesn't come across as a vanity project; in person Ms. Deschanel is exactly as indie darling as her fans would hope." - have added this to the Crowe Music Blog, if you would like to comment there, or send a reply to the Times. The full Times info is on my blog post - Thanks to CGee for spotting the lines in the Times

From Marie: "Murph, I wanted to let you know that Warner Brothers screened Body of Lies tonight in Pasadena, CA.  It was great to see the film.  Ironically it was in the same theater that American Gangster was screened in last year.  Russell's part was most definitely supporting and Leonardo DiCaprio is the star of the film.   Before the film a guy came in from the lobby and said that Ridley Scott was there.  I didn't see him. They did say we were the first audience to see the film."

April 15

Celebrity Babies - Russell and Charlie - Thanks, Allison

State of Play pages updated

Rope of Silicon has a new synopsis of SOP from Universal - Thanks, Allison

From Dark Horizons: State of Play -- The film adaptation of the award-winning BBC mini-series with Russel Crowe and Ben Affleck will open April 17th 2009. .... Nottingham -- The Ridley Scott-directed revisionist take on the Robin Hood legend starring Russell Crowe will come out November 6th, 2009. - Thanks, Cindy (Not sure if this is in Australia or world-wide)

From Russell re books he is reading: "currently I'm reading Enzo Ferrari by brock yates and a stack of books about the long bow" (ed note: getting ready to become the Sheriff?)

Wikio.com: Video of Russell and Keith having coffee yesterday in LA. - Thanks, Cassy

Gymnastics Coaching: gymnast stunt double for Russell Crowe -- Aaron Vexler plays Russell Crowe’s stunt double in the current film “American Gangster“. AV: In “American Gangster,” I was Russell Crowe’s stunt double. I worked out a lot of the stunts, and then showed him what the shot and stunt required. Russell is a very good “action actor” so almost all of what you see in the movie is actually him. I was mainly there to ensure his safety, help him with any problems, and make sure he had the right pads. However, I did most of his driving for him. I did all of the driving for the scenes in the movie where he is driving and you can’t see his face. --- IG: What was it like working with Russell Crowe, on a personal level? --- AV: Russell Crowe is a super great guy. He is always looking out for the crew and is very gracious to everyone on set that he is working with. One night he bought the whole crew — at least 100 people — Australian steak dinners. However, he has been doing action movies so long that it is also a bit intimidating, because he is such a good stuntman himself. - Thanks, Mary D

Constant Crowe Updates:  Video from this morning's coffee break (thanks, Lumi), Vid about the Bra Boys release from E! News (thanks, Ivani), Video, Pix & Reports from last night's loss against the Sharks at The Bunnies Forum on CCMB.  -Cheers, Darrin

The Washington Post - Gossip: Crowe's Casual 'G'day' for Australia's PM (Scroll) - Thanks, Penny

The Herald Sun: (Rabbitohs related) Take the pressure down

April 14

Canada.com: Mike Devlin, Times Colonist -- Mike Devlin's 10 things: Al Pacino's resume stands test of time -- 3. The Insider (1999). Michael Mann makes great-looking movies, but the casting of Pacino as real-life TV producer Lowell Bergman is what gives this underlooked gem its gnarly underbelly. Pacino is bang-on as a haggard 60 Minutes producer whose supervisors bail on a source when the heat is on. Pacino was overshadowed big-time by Russell Crowe (in his best role as the titular character), which is like saying Mark Messier wasn't so hot because the spotlight was always on Wayne Gretzky.

IFC: The film career of James Ellroy - The Demon Dog Eat Dog Film Career of James Ellroy (LAC) - Thanks, Allison

EW.com: ABM - Photo Gallery: 18 Sexy Trips to the Library Stacks - Thanks, Allison

Speaking of books, DRW sends in this one related to Nottingham - "Robin Hood - The Man Behind the Myth"

A New Guestbook: Choose books you think Russell would enjoy reading

Another Souths loss!!, but a close game. They came back and almost pulled it off -- More agony for Rabbitohs -- CRONULLA held off a gutsy South Sydney comeback to register a 12-10 win at ANZ Stadium tonight, inflicting a fifth straight loss on the Rabbitohs in the process. - Thanks, CGee

April 13

From Kris C: Encore TV -- They are now advertising a mini marathon on the 21st. -- LAC, Mystery & the Insider. (Click on "Change Start Day" to the 21st of April)

For old times sake and the film noir canon (I just watched "Pickup On South Street") - My LA Confidential pages

E! online - The Lyons Den: Beat Ben @ the Box Office: Surf Gangs vs. Slashers vs. Smart People -- Bra Boys is the biggest non-IMAX documentary in the history of Australia. Produced by Daily 10's own Sal Masekela and his partner in Berkela Films, Jason Bergh, it's the story of a surfing gang from Down Under. It's incredibly powerful and extremely well done. It opens here in the states this weekend and is narrated by Oscar winner Russell Crowe - Thanks, Allison

April 12

Fox Sports: Lewis has something to crow about -- LUKE Lewis answered the telephone and South Sydney part-owner Russell Crowe was on the line, calling from Washington DC.Lewis was stunned. Souths director of football Shane Richardson had told him to expect the call, but still it caught him off guard.

Russell's afterword to The Book of Feuds - transcribed by Penny. Used with permission

Nora M's review of The Bra Boys at Film Forward

Constant Crowe Updates:  Videos from: yesterday's bike ride, ET and Insider from 02-22-2008 (shopping trip) and Daily 10 interview with Koby and Sunny Abberton about how Russell came on board and the film in general.  -Cheers, Darrin 

April 11

ET Online: Video of Russell biking - Scroll - Thanks, Kris C

The NY Times Movies (Don't think this is active any more): Dolce's Inferno marks the feature-production debut of Australian actor Russell Crowe, who reportedly bought the option out of pocket with his own money. The tale -- directed from a spec script by former UK Universal television executive Mark Staufer -- is a romantic comedy about a steel-tough, seemingly invulnerable Los Angeles gossip columnist shaken to his core when he falls in love for the first time. ~ Nathan Southern, All Movie Guide - Thanks, Mike

Village Voice Review of Bra Boys - Thanks, Kris C

Just Jared: Russell Crowe is a biker boy -- Russell Crowe rides his bike around Beverly Hills, doing a little shopping for his kids at Tom’s Toys on Thursday. Russell will be starring in the upcoming film State of Play, which is based off a BBC mini-series. The film tells of a newspaper’s probe into the suspicious death of a United States Congressman’s mistress. Ben Affleck and Russell Crowe are appearing in the lead roles, with support from Helen Mirren, Jason Bateman, and Rachel McAdams. State of Play will be released in April 2009. - Thanks, Steph

Calendar Live Review of Bra Boys: "Bra Boys," a documentary about a blood-splattered Australian "surf tribe" 10 miles beyond Sydney, is easily dismissible as Bloods versus Crips at sea. There's poverty, single moms, alienated teens and casual violence." - Thanks, Steph

NY Times review of The Bra Boys (Not too kind on Russell's narration) - Thanks, Steph

E! online The Daily 10 has a video about The Bra Boys - They talk about Russell's involvement and you can hear his narrator's voice - Thanks, Kris C

April 10

Constant Crowe Updates:  Ben Foster at the SAG Awards, Russell mentions in the commentary at the Souths v Manly game and a Russell segment on an Oz show called "20 to 01".  -Cheers, Darrin 

Celebrity Babies - Russell, Charlie and Tennyson in the park yesterday. - Thanks, Steph, Allison

Flynetonline.com: (Pap?) Pics of Russell and Dani on an LA Street - Thanks, Cassy

Politico.com: State of Play wraps up in DC - " A set insider told us how Crowe, usually cranky and crusty whenever dealing with real-life reporters, got an education about the ink-stained wretch’s trade from technical consultant R.B. Brenner, Metro editor of the Washington Post. (In the film, Crowe’s character joins journalists aiding police who are investigating the murder of the Congressman’s mistress.) Fellow WashPo stalwart, assistant managing editor Bob Woodward, is said to briefly appear in a press conference scene shot at the Library of Congress." (Poynter Online: R.B. [Brenner] came to The Post in August 2002 from the San Diego Union-Tribune. He was an assistant Maryland editor until January 2005, when he became Maryland editor. In March, he took on the added responsibility of being Metro's Sunday editor, where he played a significant role in strengthening the Metro file in the newspaper's most widely read edition.)

Rotten Tomatoes: Total Recall: The 10 Most Corrupt Cops in Movies - Thanks, Kris C

April 9

Fox News on the Bra Boys Premiere: (Snarky) "... Sadly, however, we missed the presence of the film's narrator, Russell Crowe, who used the "excuse" that it was his birthday and that he couldn't venture from his hotel down the road to rage on. (Let's hope it was phone-free!) But one thing about our "Beautiful Mind" man is that everything is physical — even business. "He wasn't too keen on being involved when I first asked him," said the film's star and director, Sunny Abberton. "He gave me half an hour of running around the park to pitch it." Well, running coupled with some crude words. "He rang me and I didn't believe it was him, so I called him some bad words and he called me much worse words back," fellow star and pro-surfer Koby Abberton added. "I felt like an idiot when I found out it really was Russell." - Thanks, Allison

Russell and the adorable Tennyson in US Magazine

Thanks to everyone for sending in their greetings to Russell for his birthday, and Russell and Dani for their anniversary on April 7! I will close the guestbook out this evening EST

April 8

SOP: Per www.imdb.com, it will be released on 4/17/09 in the U.S. - Nottingham -- Per www.imdb.com, it will be released on 11/6/09 in the U.S. -- Thanks, Allison

Russell was not at the Bra Boys Premiere - Images at WireImage

The NY Times says Tenderness is "awaiting release."

JFX Online: Some images of Russell, Tenny and Charlie-- "Russell Crowe turned 44 years old today and instead of spending a relaxing day by himself, the father of two hung out with his kids instead. Our photogs caught up with him in the morning walking with his son Charlie around their Beverly Hills neighborhood and again in the afternoon as he picked up both his boys at their Brentwood school. Maybe he has nighttime plans with his wife, Danielle. The couple are also celebrating their anniversary today. They married in 2003 on his 39th birthday. It’s a double celebration for the Crowe family today! Check out the other pics of Russell and his boys below" - Thanks, Rhoda, Cindy

Tutorial - Coach Rugby League - Thanks, Oz Fan

April 7

Happy Birthday/Anniversary, Russell - and Dani!

My Anniversary Card for Russell and Dani - and thanks to all who sent in their greetings to Russell at the guestbook

New York Magazine: Related -- Craig Bierko on Taking a Bath With John Malkovich (That Max Baer would do anything!)

Denim Blues (hosted by JellyD) has some new images from M&C - Thanks, MM

NOTE: I have updated the Crowe Characters Page, where we have Russell's published comments on characters he has played. I can use input from any of you who care to help add quotes by Russell that appeared in the media. The instructions are at the top of the page. Thanks.

Constant Crowe Updates:  Sarah has added a new Illustrated Song to her page, a hot Russell show set to Delroy Wilson's "Get Ready"!  Click HERE to go directly to her page!  Mariola has added a new Illustrated Song to her page as well, in honour of Russell's birthday!  A lovely slideshow of Russell pix set to "Satisfied" by Richard Marx!  Click HERE to go directly to her page!

The Winnipeg Free Press: Horoscope -- TODAY'S BIRTHDAY -- Actor Russell Crowe (1964) shares your birthday. You're positive, energetic and full of life! Whatever you do, you do with enthusiasm and commitment. (You're almost reckless with your fierce energy.) You have a wonderful imagination. You tackle big projects, the immensity of which would daunt others. The secret of your success is that you believe in yourself. In the coming year, you'll face an important choice. Choose wisely. - Thanks, Ivani (Ivani has a card to Russell at her Daily Planet site)

From Ivani: Thanks to fan Maria, at IMDB, did you know that Charlton and Tony Curtis voted for Russell as Best Actor in Gladiator: "Along with Tony Curtis, Heston admitted to voting for Russell Crowe to win the Best Actor Oscar in 2001, saying before the ceremony, "I hope he gets it. He's very good." (Thanks also to Rita)

Pictures of Russell in LA at Flynet - Thanks to Russell Crowe Noticias

ZeeNews.com(India): Cinderella Man packs a punch (Film Bio of our Russell) - Thanks, Allison

The Democrat and Chronicle: Garner says Heston was larger than life -- "Heston played roles that aren’t seen as much in films nowadays, (local film writer Jack) Garner said, adding that most actors now have a more sensitive side.  “The really tough guys are few and far between,” Garner said. Garner said that the one “modern guy” in Hollywood that could play similar roles would be Russell Crowe, who starred in Gladiator in 2000." - Thanks to all

The Australian: Glamour fades as Souths stumble

April 6

Ringsiderreport.com: The Heart of Boxing -- BB: Your most recent film work is in American Gangster with Denzel Washington in the lead. With an all-star cast such as Washington, Russell Crowe and Cuba Gooding, JR., to mention just a few, what was that set like? --- It was just great. The movie is based on a true story. Ridley Scott in my opinion did a great job in the Director’s chair and Russell Crowe was a regular guy for sure. My partner in the movie is Josh Brolin (Actor James Brolin’s son) and we had a great time together shooting. I played McCann who is a Special Investigative Unit Detective who is underhanded like (Treat Williams’ character in the 1981 movie Prince of the City). - Thanks, Cindy

From Darrin: Visit Jackie's bday song for Russell and JellyD's cards at Constant Crowe

News.com.au: Bra Boy Koby Abberton denies bar brawl - In the US with his brother Sunny, Abberton said he expected Russell Crowe, who narrated the documentary, to attend the premiere tomorrow night. "I think Russ is going to be there," he said. "I heard it's his anniversary and his birthday so we didn't really pick a good night - we didn't do our research, that's for sure - but he said he's going to come so we'll see what happens." - Thanks, Allison

Fox Sports: Stewart pushes Test fullback claims -- MANLY fullback Brett Stewart did his best to remind Australia selectors he was the Kangaroos incumbent as he threw up yet another strong performance in the Sea Eagles' 20-2 win over Souths at Brookvale Oval - Thanks, Steph

April 5

ESPN - Page 2: " Can't take the NBA MVP seriously anymore   -- "... Two-time MVP winner Tim Duncan should have gotten stronger consideration last season, too. But Duncan is the NBA's version of Russell Crowe. After Crowe won Best Actor for "Gladiator," the Academy overlooked him for both "The Insider" and "A "Beautiful Mind." Crowe won't win another one because he's too consistently good. Same goes for Duncan."

The Washington Post: "Those looking to shop at the District Line in Georgetown this past week may have been confused: The place was filled with housewares and movie cameras, not the usual British menswear. That's because it was disguised for the opening sequence of "State of Play," the Russell Crowe/ Ben Affleck film that's been shooting in town for about a million years. District Line owner Marshall Thompson told us the shop was transformed because "knocking over plates and dishes is far more entertaining and dramatic than knocking over clothing" (the scene involves a chase through the store). Business will be back to normal today, Thompson said" - Thanks, Ivani

April 4

TMZ.com: "While shooting "State of Play," we're told that Russell Crowe loved the fresh ricotta gnocchi at D.C.'s Spezie so much, he had it ordered it for the entire crew. Owners Cesare Lanfranconi and Enzo Livia took care of Crowe and his crew while they shot near the restaurant." - Thanks, Steph, Kris C

The LA Times: Hollywood's James Ellroy enigma -- ONE day in the mid-'90s, the lanky and sometimes manic James Ellroy walked into the brownstone New York office of his publisher, Otto Penzler -- the two were going to a fight that night -- and broke the news: He had just sold the film rights to his novel "L.A. Confidential." "We were laughing so hard we were crying," recalls Penzler, who had published Ellroy on his Mysterious Press. "I was incredulous -- we both agreed it was unfilmable...."

Russell sent this info a while ago to this person, who didn't have a clue about Rugby League rules. With permission:

"rugby league is very easy for yanks to work out,because unlike rugby union 
with it's line outs,mauls,rucks and ever shifting possession league has defined
 periods of offence and defence.
a team has 6 tackles to progress the ball.think downs for tackle.on the 
last,they will usually kick to gain more territory,same as your 
punt.however,depending on your field position you might kick high,or along the  ground instead
of long and break the composure of the defensive side who have to  secure the
ball in order for them to then have 6 tackles.
each time a player is tackled he must then rise and "play the ball" that 
means placing it on the ground and rolling it back through the feet to another 
player on his side who is temporarily the "dummy half",meaning the first player
 to touch the ball after a "play the ball".
it's a whole new language.
take it slowly and you'll get it easily.
13 players a side ,4 bench players,10 interchanges bench to field allowed 
during the game.

The Province: Surf's up for Ozflix fest -- Bra Boys making its Vancouver debut - Thanks, Allison

April 3

The POB Forum at Norton has a You Tube music video using Capt. Aubrey - Thanks, Mary D

Think progress: (Politics and film in DC) - "...In February, Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Alphonso Jackson decided to honor himself with giant photo exhibitions in two of the lobbies at HUD’s headquarters. Many of the large images featured Jackson with President Bush. The Washington Post’s Al Kamen reports today that one of the displays has been removed “to make way for some filming of ‘State of Play,’ a movie starring Russell Crowe.” The other one will likely be taken down shortly" - Thanks, Allison

The Hollywood Reporter: Ken Follett's 'Pillars' set for TV -- On the film side, Scott Free is in postproduction on Ridley Scott's Iraq War thriller "Body of Lies," starring Leonardo DiCaprio. The British director is preproduction on his Robin Hood tale "Nottingham," which stars Russell Crowe. Tony Scott's next film will be a remake of 1970s hostage thriller "The Taking of Pelham One Two Three," this time featuring John Travolta and Denzel Washington. - Thanks, Allison

April 2

LeagueHQ: Lewis joins Rabbitohs -- A POTENTIAL exodus from Penrith began yesterday with South Sydney signing Panthers centre Luke Lewis to a $1 million contract, but not before late interest from Melbourne. - Thanks, Steph

Bra Boys film web site - Opens April 11

Related News at The Herald Sun: Koby Abberton case adjourned -- "...Abberton and his surf gang the Bra Boys are expected to be in Los Angeles later this week ahead of the red carpet premiere of their self-titled documentary in Hollywood on Monday night. Actor Russell Crowe, who narrated the documentary and is behind the story's adaptation to a feature film, said he may attend." - Thanks, Steph

IMDb Daily Poll - Related - Thanks, Kris C

The IMPA Awards web site has a bunch of Russell posters from his films

The Washington Post: Crowe bids goodbye with party for crew - Thanks, Ivani

Newscom has pictures of Russell on the SOP set - You have to log in as a guest to see them - Thanks vsecin through Ivani

Constant Crowe Updates:  Thanks to links from Ivani, I have two promotional vids from AGY promo time with a few new items we haven't seen before!  Also, I rendered the Larry King ABM promo interview with Russell and Ron as well as the Leno appearance when Russell signed the Harley!  Cheers, Darrin  

April 1

The Hollywood Reporter: CBS taps showrunners for "Hour" -- In an indication that CBS' pilot "Eleventh Hour" is headed to series, "Sleeper Cell" creators Cyrus Voris and Ethan Reiff have been tapped as executive producers/showrunners of the Jerry Bruckheimer-produced drama. "Hour," from Bruckheimer TV, Warner Bros. TV and Granada TV, is based on the British limited sci-fi series and stars Rufus Sewell as a special science adviser to the government who, with his feisty female bodyguard Rachel (Marley Shelton) in tow, saves people from the worst abuses of science. ....On the feature side, Voris and Reiff recently penned the spec "Nottingham," which sold last year in a seven-figure deal to Universal Pictures and Imagine Entertainment and has Ridley Scott attached to direct and Russell Crowe attached to star. ... - [ed note: Brian Helgeland is rewriting the Nottingham script] - Thanks, Rai

The Washington Post: - "State of Play," 2009, a political thriller starring Russell Crowe, Ben Affleck and Rachel McAdams. Filmed actor riding an escalator at the Rosslyn Metro and walking through a tunnel at the Forest Glen Station. Filming aboard train tonight. - Thanks, Allison

UltimateGuitar.com: Bra Boys Docu Press Release -- Bra Boys opens Friday, April 11th in New York City at The Quad Theatre, 34 West 13th Street, and Long Island. (Simultaneoulsy, the film will be opening on 15 screens in Los Angeles and Southern California, as well as six screens in Hawaii.)

An April Fool Report from The Daily Cardinal (U of Wisconsin) - History inspires '3:10 to Yumy Buffet' shoot -- “I’m sure James could have created this setting in a studio or with computer trickery,” “3:10 to Yumy Buffet” star Russell Crowe said while on-set and enjoying a traditional green jello cube. “But he knows that, as an actor, there’s no substitute for being in exactly the spot the kind of blokes we’re playing would have been.” - Thanks, Maria

Constant Crowe Update:  Thanks to Ivani, I have a Brazilian vid promoting American Gangster.  Ivani has also done a translation for us English-speaking peeps

Variety -- Multi-Related: Christopher Plummer and Helen Mirren are toplining Michael Hoffman's Leo Tolstoy biopic "The Last Station," which starts shooting April 7 in Germany. They replace previously announced thesps Anthony Hopkins and Meryl Streep in the roles of Tolstoy and his wife, Sofia. Other key cast include James McAvoy and Paul Giamatti. - Thanks, Steph

Variety: 2008 awards season shaping up -- Contenders lock in fall release dates -- Warners will bow Ridley Scott's Leonardo DiCaprio-Russell Crowe starrer "Body of Lies," another awards contender, on Oct. 10....Elsewhere on the master release calendar, Universal said it will release Tony Gilroy's Julia Roberts-Clive Owen starrer "Duplicity" on March 20, 2009, and Kevin Macdonald's "State of Play" on April 17, 2009. - Thanks, Cindy

From Dana: Celia Rivenbark's collection of essays- "We're Just Like You, Only Prettier!  Confessions of a Tarnished Southern Belle" has one titled "Feeling Squirrelly- Why Clone Cats When There's Perfectly Good Russell Crowe Lying Around?" 

March 31 - Yankee Opening Day! - Rained Out

Washington Post 3/31/08 "The Reliable Source" -- Sorely Tested Crowe Keeps His Cool - Thanks, Alison from Virginia

The Australian - Opinion: Kevin scores Maximus celebrity points - Thanks, Steph

IMPA Poster Awards - The Bra Boys Poster - Thanks, Steph

From Rhoda: BIO will be featuring Russell April 2nd at 9:00 A.M  then 3:00 PM and April 3rd at 4:00 AM

The Examiner: Russell Crowe satisfies his sweet tooth - Thanks, Ivani (Here is the Georgetown Cupcake web site)

Related: News.com.au: Aussie DJs say G'day North America - Thanks, Oz Fan