Universal backs out of 'Barbarella' over McGowan

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By Mary McSweeney Oct 19, 2007, 15:52 GMT

Director Robert Rodriguez busted up his marriage to wife and producer partner Elizabeth Avellan, mother of his five children, over his affair with leading lady from "Planet Terror" and "Death Proof," actress Rose McGowan. US film director Robert Rodriguez (R) and US actress Rose McGowan (L) pose during a photocall, prior to the presentation of their movie 'Planet Terror', at the 60th International Film Festival Locarno, 05 August 2007, in Locarno, Switzerland. EPA/MARTIAL TREZZINI

US film director Robert Rodriguez (R) and US actress Rose McGowan (L) pose during a photocall, prior to the presentation of their movie 'Planet Terror', at the 60th International Film Festival Locarno, 05 August 2007, in Locarno, Switzerland. EPA/MARTIAL TREZZINIThe NY Observer is now reporting that Universal Studios has backed out of the film as a result of McGowan’s casting. As a result, the film will be financed solely by independent backers.Rodriguez denies that Rose’s casting had anything to do with Universal losing interest in the film. Instead, he says it all had to do with money.“Universal had initially signed on for $60 million,” says Robert. “But then when we were done with the script it wound up at closer to $82 million.”Rodriguez also counters that the folks at Universal were in fact thrilled with McGowan’s screen test, “blown over,” as he put it. “They said, ‘What are we looking at?’” Mr. Rodriguez said. “She looks fantastic in the role. … She was perfect for this part. She just has that daring look, a sort of classic sexiness that is also kind of futuristic.”The Observer cite sources close to the film painting a different story, though.“It’s sort of embarrassing for everyone involved,” says an insider. “No one thinks Rose can carry the movie, but Robert won’t listen.”Rodriguez is still trying to shop the movie - with McGowan attached - to other studios for additional backing.
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BobbyOct 22nd, 2007 - 22:38:28

If Universal really did back out, that seems absurd. I think Rose McGowan would be perfect for the role. It seems like anytime you get a huge name female celebrity to play some sort of cheesy action heroine, the movie bombs. Rose McGowan has a campiness that I think might be what makes this movie work.

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Universal backs out of 'Barbarella' over McGowan

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