Jan 2, 2008, 12:30 GMT
Sir Anthony Hopkins transformed a Welsh mansion into a Hollywood-style palace to celebrate his 70th birthday on New Year's Eve (31.12.07).
11/11/2007 - Anthony Hopkins - London, England © Solarpix / PR Photos
The Oscar-winning star spent more than £200,000 on the lavish party at stately home Margam Park, which is located near his hometown of Port Talbot, flying more than 100 friends from the US for the occasion.
He told the 200-plus guests: "This cost me so much I'll have to make another film to pay for it!"
Wiping away a tear, the emotional actor added: "Some people here tonight I haven't seen for 65 years. This really is a closing of the circle."
Guests were entertained by a 15-piece orchestra on a dance floor, which featured a centrepiece of a giant dragon's head cut from turf from Wales.
Graham Jenkins, the brother of late Welsh actor Richard Burton, said: "It was the most fantastic occasion - Sir Anthony certainly pushed the boat out.
"I thought my brother's 50th birthday party at the Dorchester was marvellous, as was Elizabeth Taylor's 40th in Budapest. But this was even better.
"The birthday was a big occasion for Sir Anthony and he spoke warmly of coming home to Wales to celebrate.
"I wouldn't be surprised if he spent more time here in the coming years."
(C) BANG Media International
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