Toni's Cosi new hit
Actress Toni Collette led the array of stars of Australia’s new movie sensation Cosi at its premiere in Sydney last night.
The former Muriel’s Wedding star was joined by co-stars Ben Mendelsohn, Jackie Weaver and Barry Otto at the Village Cinema in George St for the launch.
There has been discussion of a recording contract for the 23-yearold, as well as speculation that she will be drawn to Hollywood.
Collette said: “I just like to work and will take whatever roles I’m attracted to.
“I would never go and work in America just for the sake of a huge pay packet.”
Cosi is the tale of a young man (Mendelsohn) who takes a job in a psychiatric institution and is charged with producing the Mozart opera Cosi Fan Tutte, with patients in the starring roles.
Based on a play by Louis Nowra, the film has been hailed as a fine showcase of some of the country’s best actors.
Two fire brigade trucks added to the spectacle last night.
Firefighters in full uniform were present to escort David Wenham, who plays a pyromaniac in the movie, into the cinema. Recently separated Weaver and husband Derryn Hinch made a surprise appearance at the launch.
Weaver, who stars as a psychiatric patient in the new film, appeared with son Dylan.
The couple announced in February they were “taking time out” from their 13-year marriage.
At a media conference to launch the film yesterday, it didn’t take long before discussion turned to Australia’s current hit film, Babe, which has been nominated for seven Oscars.
All it took was one mention of their pig co-star an incidental animal character in the new film – and the cast was instantly upstaged.
