Emerging new actress Greta Gerwig plays Naomi, a New York City tour guide who shares Arthur’s (Russell Brand) idealism and spontaneity, in Warner Bros.’ new romantic comedy “Arthur.” The independent Naomi sees the billionaire bachelor not only for who he is, but for who he could be, and finally gives him a reason to take charge of his own life.
For Rusell Brand, “a shared sense of humor fuels any good relationship, and that’s what draws Arthur to Naomi”—inconveniently enough, just hours after he’s promised his mother to marry Susan Johnson (Jennifer Garner), under threat of disinheritance. “Arthur likes Naomi because she has the kind of wit and imagination that he does. She’s someone he can laugh with, have fun with, and share his thoughts.”
If Arthur sees quality in Naomi, it’s likely because he’s learned a thing or two about quality from his nanny and best friend Hobson (Helen Mirren). “Like Hobson, Naomi is quick-witted and won’t take any bull from him,” observes Gerwig.
Naomi challenges him, at the same time embracing his open-hearted, playful side. In that respect, she’s a perfect example of how to combine the best of Arthur with a practical grounding that makes it possible to thrive in the real world.
“The wonderful thing about Naomi is that she doesn’t want to be anywhere other than where she is. When she discovers Arthur is a billionaire, she thinks that’s fine for him, but she’s not covetous and doesn’t see it as an opportunity to improve her life. She thinks her life is pretty good already. Her affection can’t be bought,” says Gerwig.
“Likewise, her forgiveness can’t be bought when Arthur inadvertently hurts her,” she continues. “This is a new concept for him and it makes him think. Naomi ends up being the catalyst for his transformation, because she won’t take anything less.”
The filmmakers cast Gerwig in this pivotal role initially on the strength of her performance in the dark comedy “Greenberg,” but also because of the sparks that flew during her audition with Brand. Says director Jason Winer, “She was so arresting and spontaneous in ‘Greenberg.’ But what clinched it was what a great improviser she was and how she sparred so freely with Russell. She was fearless.”
She would have to be. “Improv’ing with Russell is like playing speed chess,” the actress attests. “It’s exhilarating. He’s always thinking 12 moves ahead.”
Opening across the Philippines on Black Saturday, April 23, “Arthur” is distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.
8 Comments
I still have to see the movie though I’ve seen the trailers many times. I first saw Rusell Brand in the movie, Forgetting Sarah Marshall and he was funny. Then the Movie HOP which was the voice of E.B (the Rabbit). I like the British accent. I think I am fascinated with the British accents.
Can’t wait to watch this. Hubby loves comedy flicks so this should be perfect for him. So sad I missed Hop though since I love his accent lol
Was this remake horrible? No, but it also wasn’t that great. In only a couple of scenes did this film lift itself above mediocrity. In comparing this update to the 1981 version, the original is simply better on every point. Russell Brand is probably the best choice they could make for the lead, but he doesn’t measure up to Dudley Moore’s Arthur. And the wonderful Helen Mirren does her best, but she just can’t match John Gielgud’s witty portrayal of Hobson. The writing fell particularly short of the mark. The one bright spot for me was Greta Gerwig, whom I had not previously seen. She did a fine job of making a thinly-written character become real. I look forward to seeing her in the future.
billionaire bachelor? cool! i find the movie interesting. will have to ask hubby to look for it so we can watch it on our movie date friday night.
The filmmakers cast Gerwig in this pivotal role initially on the strength of her performance in the dark comedy “Greenberg,” but also because of the sparks that flew during her audition with Brand. Says director Jason Winer, “She was so arresting and spontaneous in ‘Greenberg.’ But what clinched it was what a great improviser she was and how she sparred so freely with Russell. She was fearless.
HONESTY girls…im not watching TELEVISION thats why Im not updated in showbiz thingy!
i’d love to watch russell brand in a movie, i’ve only seen, or heard more appropriate, him as the voice of dr.nefario in “despicable me” + in another animated flick. it will be nice to see him play himself plus i really miss hearing the brit twang….:)
mahanap nga ito…parang maganda a…