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“Robin Hood” Director Ridley Scott Will Miss Cannes

Roger Friedman
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Opening night without the film’s director? At Cannes, this would be a disappointment.

Having just arrived in Paris, I am now getting all kinds of calls about the impending festival of festivals. But I am hearing that knee replacement surgery has made it just about a mission imposible for Oscar winner Ridley Scott to make it Cannes on Wednesday for the premiere of his new blockbuster, “Robin Hood.”

And Scott, as we all know, loves France. He made a film in Provence several years ago just so he could spend time here.

The rest of the cast is on its way from various points in the world. Russell Crowe, Cate Blanchett, William Hurt, Max von Sydow, Oscar Isaac, are all expected to drive the crowds crazy on Wednesday on the red carpet leading up to the Palais des Festivals.

“Robin Hood” is the first opening night in a couple of years with a lot of star power, making the premiere extra special.  I do hear Scott will send his long time girlfriend, the shockingly hot Giannina Facio, in his place. Giannina is a regular in Scott films. She plays a lady in waiting in this one.

Scott can only be disappointed himself to miss his return to the Croisette after 33 years. Maybe they’ll figure out a way to get him here. But Crowe and co. will carry the day. “Robin Hood” is a nice change of pace–a movie in which great adult actors tell a timeless tale. The French press should be very motivated when they see all their antedecedents as villians trying to destroy the British throne. Mon dieu!

Cannes will otherwise be overrun by famous directors, don’t worry: Oliver Stone, Woody Allen, Jean Luc Godard, Mike Leigh, Stephen Frears, Sophie Fiennes (sister of Ralph and Joseph), Bernard Tavernier, will keep things busy enough!

Scott will also miss the “Robin Hood’ cast dinner on Tuesday night at the famous Michelangelo restaurant in Antibes. Michelangelo and Tetou are the two hotspots in the South–where the stars go every night!

UPDATE: Since I posted, Scott has issued a statement saying he definitely won’t attend.

Image: PRphotos.com

Penelope Cruz Cannes-Do for Haiti

Roger Friedman
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Penelope Cruz Cannes-Do for Haiti

This year’s Cannes Film Festival may get very busy for Haiti fundraising.

The word is that Chopard may be helping Penelope Cruz organize an auction of stars’ gowns and other high priced items for May 19th.

Cruz has already pledged $50,000 a year to building schools in the earthquake-devastated nation.

Her impetus comes from pal Sean Penn who I’m told is still in Haiti working with volunteers. Penn has been devoted to this cause since January. He’s expected in Cannes though to promote his film, “Fair Game.”

Cruz and boyfriend Javier Bardem each made pledges to Haiti relief. But Penn apparently has implored her to do something at Cannes to keep awareness of the dire situation alive. If the auction happens, sources say the minimum bids will be $20,000. Frankly, some of the billionaires who come to Cannes could just write $1 million checks and be done with it. They’d never miss the money!

PS At some point, Bono and Wyclef Jean will show up at the film festival, too. Bono and Penelope are usually velcro’d together at events. If Cruz auctions and other two play some music, maybe with Mick Jagger–also set to be in town–Haiti has a fighting chance!

Men in Black 3-D Confirmed: I Told You on April 21st

Roger Friedman
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Men in Black 3-D Confirmed: I Told You on April 21st

Barry Sonnenfeld‘s “Men in Black 3D”, with Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones? I told you about this on April 21st, and the story was picked up everywhere.

Still, a blog decided to announce it today like it was their scoop. Boo hoo. Nikki Finke‘s penchant for repurposing old stories has finally infected her truly talented New York reporter, Mike Fleming. It makes me sad.

But that said, I did tell you about “Men in Black 3-D” some 17 days ago! I told you Will Smith would do it, and that “MIB” would replace “Spider Man 4,” which was scuttled a few months ago.

This isn’t the first time that Finke’s blog has found old material and presented it as new. I had this problem a few weeks ago when I reported first that Katherine Heigl had left her publicist to return to PMK. Finke ran the story as if she’d gotten the scoop a day later.

The really sad part of this is that when Mike Fleming got a bit of a scoop the other day on Sting coming to Broadway, I gave him credit when I advanced the story with more details. Fair is fair. Maybe Nikki uses the Neuralyzer gadget (pictured) from “MIB,” the one that makes you forget stuff. If so, she’s ODing on it.

Finke had a strong presence when she reported on the Writers Guild Strike last year. She developed some loyal readers from that time. But the strike is over, and it’s not so easy to get stories when you depend on one or two sources and never leave the house. Nikki, see you at the “MIB 3D” premiere–not!

Robin Hood: Ridley Scott Has Lots to “Crowe” About

Roger Friedman
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Robin Hood: Ridley Scott Has Lots to “Crowe” About

“Robin Hood” is barreling toward us quickly, with a big price tag. Ridley Scott‘s epic, starring Russell Crowe, opens the 2010 Cannes Film Festival next Wednesday. Some insiders are telling me that it will take $700 million to break even.

Earlier this week, “Robin Hood” was screened in the U.S. so some of us going to Cannes wouldn’t have to experience it with jet lag. This isn’t a review, per se, since they won’t come until Sunday. But this much I can tell you: “Robin Hood” is the best opening choice for Cannes in a long time. It’s great filmmaking: exciting, involving, and incredibly human. It’s full of incredible action, too.

What might surprise everyone is that “Robin Hood” may find an audience in an unlikely place: the Tea Party. That’s because Robin’s problem with the rule of King John is taxes! The Sherwood Forest gang doesn’t want to pay them. The whole movie tells the tale of England’s fight against France. But in the end, Robin is declared an outlaw because he’s against taxes. King John keeps levying them. Robin is declared an outlaw. And thus will begin “Robin Hood 2,” the story we all know so well.

But this “Robin Hood” is a prequel of sorts. And it seems to me that it works on all levels–as a romance and an action film. It’s also very modern, as Cate Blanchett‘s Maid Marian is one tough cookie. She’s no damsel in distress, that’s for sure, and gives Robin as good as he gets. Blanchett, with long dark hair, is the perfect foil for Russell Crowe. They are evenly matched, and have lots of chemistry.

“Robin Hood” isn’t all jousting and horseback riding, by the way. Comic (and sexy) relief comes from Oscar Isaac as King John. He’s portrayed as a hedonist and a bit of an idiot, who knows little about defending his people from the croissant-wielding invaders. Isaac is a standout in a large, excellent cast that also, improbably, includes “ER” star Scott Grimes and “Lost” bad guy Kevin Durand. plus the usual good work by William Hurt, Mark Addy, Eileen Atkins. and Max von Sydow. Danny Huston has a brief, but strong turn as King Richard the Lionhearted.

Finally, what’s nice about “Robin Hood” is that Scott has his “Gladiator” team with him. The movie almost feels old-school; it’s real filmmaking. I may be wrong, but it seemed like there was a lot less CGI and more human interaction. “Robin Hood” is a welcome relief from the comic book movies of the recent past. After “Iron Man 2” has its big first weekend, I do think “Robin Hood” will slash and conquer.

But first, “Robin Hood” has to conquer the Croisette. I can’t wait to see this group on the red carpet at the Palais next week. Sacre bleu, the place is going to go crazy!

Mick Jagger Goes Out on a Limb for Girlfriend

Roger Friedman
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Mick Jagger Goes Out on a Limb for Girlfriend

Last night, Mick Jagger went out on a limb, so to speak, for girlfriend L’Wren Scott.

Jagger made a rare appearance at a rooftop benefit (atop the Scholastic Books building) in Soho to help raise money for Haitians who’ve lost limbs in the January earthquake. Scott is old friends with crusading doctor, David Colbert, who’s a dermatologist to the stars. His group is called NYDG Foundation: Rx Haiti. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S8SM7aYqqIE

And the stars who did show up included Rachel Weisz and Naomi Watts. It was hoped that Jude Law and Sienna Miller might materialize, but excuses were made: Jude was on a plane back to England.

And what of Mick, besides graciously digging in for Haiti? He’s on his way to Cannes for the re-release of “Exile on Main Street” and the showing of a new short documentary that stitches together pieces of unseen footage from Rolling Stones tapes including the legendary “Cocksucker Blues.”

Six held-back songs were added to the new “Exile.” Mick told me his favorites are “Plundered My Love” — a “Tumbling Dice” companion– and the bluesy, gospelish “I’m Not Signifying.” The other new old tracks include “Pass the Wine (Sophia Loren),” “Dancing in the Light,” “So Divine (Aladdin Story),” and the sublime “Following the River.”

The discovery of six unreleased tracks is really important. Mick Taylor was a key part of the main group, having replaced Brian Jones. Playing on these sessions were all-stars Billy Preston, Nicky Hopkins, Ian Stewart, and Jimmy Miller. Clydie King, Shirley Goodman, and Venetta Fields sing backup.

Mick told me, “The songs just were never finished.” The released Exile had 18 tracks spread over 2 LPs. “It took me a long time to finish them,” he said with a wide grin.

It was well worth it. Word is that the party for “Exile” will be on Paul Allen’s yacht. Allen, bravely recovering from cancer treatment, is expected. Maybe Mick will play with Allen’s band. Someone might get some satisfaction after all.

Hello Dalai: Richard Gere Bringing Tibetan Leader to Radio City

Roger Friedman
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Hello Dalai: Richard Gere Bringing Tibetan Leader to Radio City

Richard Gere puts his money where his mouth is, and he’s consistent.

One of the last great movie stars, Gere is underwriting appearances later this month by exiled (since 1959) Tibetan leader the Dalai Lama. Gere is producing a weekend of lectures by His Holiness at Radio City Music Hall.

Unlike Kabbalah or Scientology, studying with the Dalai Lama is pretty much a cheap ticket. The average price is between $40 and $60. According to an aide working for The Gere Foundation, originally one of the classes was a six parter with each segment costing sixty bucks.

But now they’re considering breaking it down so “students” can pick and choose the classes individually.

“The Gere Foundation sponsored the Dalai Lama — who lives in northern India–in Central Park, which was free,” said the aide. “But it costs to take Radio City.”

What’s even cooler: you don’t have to buy special books or ribbons or get e-metered  And you can download the basic literature now for free from dalailamany.org in advance of the May 21 start date.

By the way the Gere Foundation is a nice little operation. Gere gives away around $250,000 to worthy causes, many of which are Tibet-related. But he also sends a hefty check to the Motion Picture TV Fund, which is now under siege over attempting to close its long term care facility. The irony is, I don’t think Gere has ever gone to the swanky pre-Oscar party for the Fund. He just writes the check.

Showbiz411 and New York Daily News at Cannes

Roger Friedman
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Showbiz411 and New York Daily News at Cannes

Starting next week, showbiz411.com heads to the Cannes Film Festival with regular updates beginning on Wednesday, May 12th. But also check for us on the website of the New York Daily News (www.nydailynews.com) and in the actual printed Daily News. That’s right. Remember the newspaper? It’s black and white and read all over!

Madonna Wants Robin Hood’s King John for Her Movie

Roger Friedman
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Madonna Wants Robin Hood’s King John for Her Movie

Here’s a little more on Madonna‘s movie, “W.E”– and some other movie bits…

According to sources, the Material Director wants hot as a pistol young actor Oscar Isaac, who plays King John in the new Ridley Scott directed “Robin Hood,” for her film.

Isaac would be one half of the modern romantic couple in the movie, opposite Abbie Cornish. Not yet cast are the Duke and Duchess of Windsor (see story below), who play counterparts of the modern couple.

Isaac–who’s already starred in “Agora” and “Balibo”– is ready to have his breakthrough moment. Next year he stars in “Sucker Punch,” directed by Zack Snyder. Madonna’s movie can only up his profile, whether the film turns out good or bad…

“Robin Hood,” meantime, screened on Tuesday night for long-lead press, and got great advance word. It’s said to be a real “movie” with few special effects and little CGI. There’s a lot of real action, however. Maybe it will start a trend back to real moviemaking. This “Robin Hood” also sets up its own sequel with a splashy ending that presages Robin Hood’s days of robbing the rich and helping the poor.

…

Oliver’s Army Is Ready for Cannes

Roger Friedman
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Oliver’s Army Is Ready for Cannes

News from the IFP dinner for a mere one hundred or so filmmakers last night at Diane von Furstenberg’s design studio:

Oliver Stone is getting ready for Cannes and South America with “Wall Street 2” and “South of the Border.” He chatted with Sony Pictures Classics’ Michael Barker, and DVF herself…”Wall Street 2″ hits Cannes on Friday, March 14th…Josh Brolin should be in attendance, as well as star Michael Douglas…

Lovely and amazing Patricia Clarkson (pictured here) –with “Cairo Time” and only three more films in the can–brought best-bud, poet Howard Altmann, to dinner. The two often perform readings of Altmann’s work at Barnes & Noble, etc. Altmann has a new collection out from Turtle Point Press…

Joel Schumacher is prepping “Trespass,” a home invasion thriller. Casting is underway, with actors to be announced shortly…

Jake Paltrow, Gwyneth’s talented bro, is negotiating to do his second feature film this fall. Paltrow has a cameo in “Greenberg,” out now…

Gwyneth and mom Blythe Danner will not do “A Little Night Music” on Broadway. “My daughter will not leave London and her kids,” Danner explained…

Martin Scorsese is already screening his Fran Lebowitz documentary for friends. Reaction is good, and Lebowitz comes off as glibly gifted. But I hope it explains why she wrote just two books, and almost nothing in 30 years. And how she’s lived since then thanks to the kindness of friends…

The dinner honored Tatiana von Furstenberg and Francesca Gregorini, whose terrific “Tanner Hall” will be released this fall. Also in attendance: Famed director Mira Nair, actor-director Ed Burns, Amber Tamblyn, Lily Rabe, Geoff Fletcher, Annette Tapert, and Pink Floyd’s Roger Waters...The whole gang proceeded to the Boom Boom Room, and for all I know, they are still there…

Katie Couric Tribute Dinner Brings Tight-Lipped CBS and CBS Execs Together

Roger Friedman
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Katie Couric Tribute Dinner Brings Tight-Lipped CBS and CBS Execs Together

Matt Lauer told me right before the annual mid year dinner for the Museum of the Moving Image last night that he wasn’t going to “roast” honoree Katie Couric.

“Just lightly grill her,” he quipped.

Well, Matt did roast Katie, and he was pretty damned funny. The dinner also honored CNN chief Phil Kent, which meant that the room was filled with folks from CNN and CBS–lots of rumors about their merger and a lot of people denying it. On the CNN side: Anderson Cooper, Time Warner chief Jeff Bewkes, Wolf Blitzer. On the CBS side: “Evening News” producer Rick Kaplan, and Katie’s beau, Brooks Perlin. But no Les Moonves, which led to Lauer’s hysterical introduction.

Lauer reported that Katie had just asked him a week ago over lunch to make the toast. Lauer said he wondered why she’d waited so long, until the last minute. “I didn’t want it to weigh on you,” he reported Couric said. Then he got a letter from Moonves, thanking him for stepping in, and since so many others had turned the job down. There were also a couple of good zingers about Sarah Palin. “Katie has interviewed people who are world leaders, and who would like to be,” joked Matt, who also called the decade he worked with Katie her “Lauer Years.” “We had five great years,” he said, “although we worked together for ten!”

Couric, taking the podium, answered that she’d also been turned down by Al Roker. She said of the CBS-CNN rumor, “I’m worried I’ll have to go on a date with Larry King. Or get locked in the Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer.”

As for the merger, Kent told the assembled diners, including members of the Scotto family–from Katie’s favorite restaurant, Fresco–really, nothing useful. “Don’t believe everything you read in the paper,” Kent said, “but everything you see on CBS and CNN.”

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