The Dawson Twins Minus 1
Juniors
- Messages
- 306
Anyone see this item in this weekend's SMH?
http://www.smh.com.au/news/film/in-a-league-of-his-own/2006/05/13/1146940771264.html
Matthew's in a league of his own: now he's a movie star
HAVING conquered television, former rugby league player Matthew Johns is set to make his debut on the big screen.
The man now better known as his comical alter ego Reg Reagan will star in an independent Australian film, The Last Winter, which will begin shooting in August.
A star on Channel Nine's Footy Show and match telecasts, with a book, CD and hit single under his belt, the former NSW and Australian player is finalising negotiations for his film debut as league coach Jack Cooper.
Set in 1987 and focused on the Newtown Jets rugby league club, the film will examine how changing codes of ethics and professionalism overhauled Australian sport.
"It's a big challenge and a great opportunity," he said. "I might be as wooden as anything but I'm willing to give it a real crack. I want to continue to expand my career.
"When Channel Nine first approached me to appear on TV, I didn't want to do it and was really nervous, but I love it now.
This is about taking it to the next level and testing myself further."
Johns, 34, said he was inspired by Paul Hogan, who made his name on Australian television before making it big in Hollywood.
"Hoges is a good example of what can happen - if you're a knockabout bloke and you have a go at these things you never know how far they can go," he said.
Writer Matt Nable said the movie would appeal to everyone, not just sport fans. The plot revolves around Johns's relationship with one of his players, Mick "Grub" Henderson, who is being rubbed out of the game.
"It's about a man being stripped of his identity, of his livelihood," Nable said. "His whole life is being turned around and he doesn't know how to deal with it."
Johns said it was "a story that everyone can relate to - how we deal with big changes and challenges in our lives. I felt a strong affiliation with the characters almost instantly".
Nable approached Johns 12 months ago because "what Matt brings to the table is invaluable".
"He has already shown what a television talent he is and there is no reason to think that won't transfer to the big screen. His popularity has transcended rugby league and we feel the movie will do the same.
"What I find hard to believe is that something so emotive as sport is in Australian society doesn't get covered by filmmakers in this country. The last significant film was Phar Lap and that was 25 years ago."
Nable said Jane Forrest, who worked on The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, Two Hands, Ghost Rider and Little Fish, would direct the film. And he confirmed he was searching for a leading Australian actor to play a support role.
The film is set for a March release next year.
Anyone know any more about this?
http://www.smh.com.au/news/film/in-a-league-of-his-own/2006/05/13/1146940771264.html
Matthew's in a league of his own: now he's a movie star
HAVING conquered television, former rugby league player Matthew Johns is set to make his debut on the big screen.
The man now better known as his comical alter ego Reg Reagan will star in an independent Australian film, The Last Winter, which will begin shooting in August.
A star on Channel Nine's Footy Show and match telecasts, with a book, CD and hit single under his belt, the former NSW and Australian player is finalising negotiations for his film debut as league coach Jack Cooper.
Set in 1987 and focused on the Newtown Jets rugby league club, the film will examine how changing codes of ethics and professionalism overhauled Australian sport.
"It's a big challenge and a great opportunity," he said. "I might be as wooden as anything but I'm willing to give it a real crack. I want to continue to expand my career.
"When Channel Nine first approached me to appear on TV, I didn't want to do it and was really nervous, but I love it now.
This is about taking it to the next level and testing myself further."
Johns, 34, said he was inspired by Paul Hogan, who made his name on Australian television before making it big in Hollywood.
"Hoges is a good example of what can happen - if you're a knockabout bloke and you have a go at these things you never know how far they can go," he said.
Writer Matt Nable said the movie would appeal to everyone, not just sport fans. The plot revolves around Johns's relationship with one of his players, Mick "Grub" Henderson, who is being rubbed out of the game.
"It's about a man being stripped of his identity, of his livelihood," Nable said. "His whole life is being turned around and he doesn't know how to deal with it."
Johns said it was "a story that everyone can relate to - how we deal with big changes and challenges in our lives. I felt a strong affiliation with the characters almost instantly".
Nable approached Johns 12 months ago because "what Matt brings to the table is invaluable".
"He has already shown what a television talent he is and there is no reason to think that won't transfer to the big screen. His popularity has transcended rugby league and we feel the movie will do the same.
"What I find hard to believe is that something so emotive as sport is in Australian society doesn't get covered by filmmakers in this country. The last significant film was Phar Lap and that was 25 years ago."
Nable said Jane Forrest, who worked on The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, Two Hands, Ghost Rider and Little Fish, would direct the film. And he confirmed he was searching for a leading Australian actor to play a support role.
The film is set for a March release next year.
Anyone know any more about this?
#-o ](*,)
