In his latest film Tom Cruise plays a disillusioned Civil War hero who travels to Japan to battle a band of local warriors. The handsome actor was showing his softer side at The Last Samurai premiere, however, as he was accompanied by glamorous Spanish girlfriend Penelope Cruz.
The Mann Village Theatre was decorated with authentic Japanese battle armour as the A-list couple mingled with other VIPs. And it sounds as though Tom was enjoying some time off, as the film was one of the most demanding he has ever made.
The actor had to bulk up by 20 pounds in order to handle the challenges of performing with heavy body armour. "This film is different in that it took me almost a year to physically be able to make it," he revealed.
In the epic, Tom's character, Nathan Algren, journeys to Japan to help an industrialist defeat a band of local soldiers. But after being captured by his Samurai enemies, he begins to respect their way of living. And there seems to have been a case of life imitating art, as Tom says he has developed a similar admiration for the country's ancient warriors.
"I've just been absolutely fascinated and in awe of the culture. I find its aesthetic and the people fascinating. I wanted to know more, more about their history, how they lived," he said.
Meanwhile, the 41-year-old star may have some explaining to do on the home front, after confirming his ex-wife's relationship with rock star Lenny Kravitz on live TV.
Nicole Kidman has kept her romance with the rocker a carefully guarded secret, but Tom let it slip on a US talkshow. "I am now with Penelope Cruz and she is with, with, another," he said. "She is with Lenny. Lenny Kravitz. He is a very talented musician."
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
