Kurbans new investment property

They won't live in Sydney ever again (thank you) but they are happy to purchase a new penthouse apartment in Lavender Bay to stay in once a year. The new $6 million purchase is close to where Nicole's parents live. The photo above shows Nicole on the balcony during a house warming luncheon with her parents.

You may recall Nicole got rid of the Darling Point home she owned last year claiming it did not have enough outdoor garden for children. Why was that an important issue when she never stays in Sydney, I hear you ask. Exactly. Notice they didn't buy a Queensland property near Keith's parents? That's because ...

Merry Christmas

A very Merry Christmas from all of us at Nicole Kidman's Journey. Please join us again in 2010 for more staged moments and surgical enhancements of our 'favourite' Diva.

Keith my sweet, did you miss me?

"Oh Keith, these 18 hour flights are terrible for my skin!"

Nicole and Sunday Rose touched down on a wet Sydney yesterday to reunite with Keith (who is currently touring). Keith looked pleased to see his daughter, but who knows if that applies to Nicole. Lady Kidman is in Australia for the Christmas holidays, and to chill out at her country estate at Sutton Forest. Yes, the same country estate which has angered locals since she erected privacy structures all around to block out intruders and paparazzi. Apparently, Nicole has also had trees planted which grow to over 40 metres high. Locals are furious because these sorts of trees ruin the overall open feel of the area.

Get the feeling the locals aren't too thrilled with her? You have to wonder why she bothered doing any of the privacy structures when she only goes there once a year, if that. And let's remember, she refuses to live in Australia again. Oh well, I guess the hired help will enjoy the privacy the rest of the year.

I love Lainey's opinion on Nicole's visit Down Under - see here.

Nicole the clown at NY Premiere

Now that her career is truly up for a change, Nicole has decided to put some ideas out there. If there are any visiting circuses in town, Nicole would like a job as a clown. At the New York premiere of NINE last night, Nicole decided to add some white powder under her eyes and nose to the already caked on layers of make-up (she even looked like ADAM ANT).

Either somebody forgot to tell her that it wasn't applied properly or everyone just hates her. Still, Nicole found a way (yet again) to find front page news. You might say for all the wrong reasons, but Nicole is not going to be upstaged by Marion, Kate or Penelope. Let's remember, she's been around longer than them. And a Diva expects respect, at any cost! Publicity is publicity, but why is she telling everyone to be quiet? What's with the SSSSH's in so many of her photos lately?

EXPECTED "JOB WANTED" ADVERTISEMENT BY NICOLE KIDMAN:

I am a former B class actor, now E class actor who has decided that enough is enough of this movie career. I am better suited to working in a circus. I normally have frizzy red hair, so would be very suited to playing a clown. I am happy to have make-up caked all over my face, and happy to act the goon at all times. NEED JOB URGENTLY!

We can't live in Sydney!

Nicole's games with the Paps

Hot on the heels of Keith's Melbourne concert last night, Nicole has told the Sunday Telegraph that she can never make Sydney her home again because of the Paparazzi. In her own words:

"It makes certain cities impossible to live in. Like Sydney, it makes it impossible for us to live there. We certainly don't get that treatment in Tennessee. But it goes with the territory. It's just, we have to be careful, just to maintain some sort of semblance of a normal life for our child. At the moment Keith's career requires him to be based in Nashville, because there isn't a huge career for him in terms of country music in Australia. At the same time we're so connected to Australia, because our parents, my sister, our nieces and nephews, are all based there. So it really is a pull. I miss my mum and dad so much."

You may recall an earlier post on this Blog from May 2009 - this is not the first time the Urbans have raised this issue. We then pointed out that many Australian film stars (who are much more talented that Nicole) live in Australia, and do so without any trouble from the Paps. That is because they go about their daily lives in a normal manner without seeking attention. For example, they don't ring radio stations, reminding everybody that they are in town. See earlier post by clicking here.

Do you get the feeling Nicole is bringing all this up again to gain some sympathy ahead of her new movie NINE? Perhaps the Australian critics will be kinder this time round, following the wreck that was Australia.

Do you notice something else? Yes, Nicole has found a way to get her name in the papers again this week. As a friend pointed out some weeks ago, there is something about Kidman in the papers EVERY WEEK it seems. The way she likes it, perhaps?

Sophia Loren is my role model

"When I get to Hollywood, I want to be just like Sophia!"

Nicole Kidman has admitted in the latest People Magazine 'Reader's Questions' segment that Sophia Loren is her role model. In her own words: "I just worked with Sophia Loren [in Nine], and she is so gorgeous and she has such grace. I use her as a role model.”

You may recall she made similar comments about Lauren Bacall after working with her in the horrid movie Birth. Just as well Lauren didn't get sucked in to the crawling job. Nicole is a crawler, yes?

The full list of 'Reader's Questions' are as follows:

If you could work a normal job, what would you want it to be?
I’d love to be an interior designer. I just love walking into a room and redoing it. When my girlfriends are buying an apartment, they’ll always ask me to come along because I’m going ‘You can knock that wall down, just put a little bit of paint there.’

What is your favorite new thing that Sunday Rose has learned?
She now points at anything and goes, ‘Bug.’ That’s her word. We were in the hotel room the other day, and there was a little sprinkler up in the corner of the room. She kept pointing at it and going ‘bug!’ Keith had to hold her up and prove to her that it wasn’t a bug.

What mundane chores do you like to do?
Strangely enough, I love putting clothes in the washing machine. I would always do the washing growing up – that was one of my jobs. And I quite like ironing shirts.

What’s your biggest quirk?
Keith and I love coffee. I love the foam more than the coffee. I will go and order a cappuccino and say, make it all foam and very little coffee. They know me now at the Starbucks in Nashville.

How did you overcome your shyness?
I think a lot of it has to do with just getting comfortable in my own skin. That’s part of getting older. It’s okay to be 5 ft. 11 in. and all of the things that I used to feel awkward about. I now feel comfortable. A lot of that comes with being loved.

How do you cope working in an industry that refuses to let women age naturally and gracefully?
Well, I live in Tennessee so it is slightly different than living in L.A. I just worked with Sophia Loren [in Nine], and she is so gorgeous and she has such grace. I use her as a role model.

Your husband has several tattoos, would you ever consider getting one?
No. I am tattooless.

Do you like to cook?
I am a terrible cook. I cook chicken for Keith, and it’s always dry. I’m a much better person to cook for because I love food and I will eat almost anything.

Here is one question they wouldn't publish:
Question: Hi Niccy. Can you tell me why you lie about all the work you've had done to your face and chest. Didn't your parents tell you it is naughty to lie?

Nine: Let the Nicky PR machine run its course

Inset: Arriving at Heathrow Airport with Keith

Everyone knows Nicole loves a chance to be snapped by the cameras, especially at a premiere (unless it's for a dud film like The Invasion, which she refused to do any publicity for ... who could blame her).

Nicole and Keith arrived in London yesterday for the premiere of Nine, the musical where Nicole's dancing scene ended up on the cutting room floor. Despite only appearing in the film for some 15 minutes, Nicole decided not to let any of the limelight go the other stars at the premiere. She stood out with even longer hair extensions and a stark white dress.

So, while Nicole's appearance in Nine is quite brief, we are very thankful to the Director for cutting out her dancing scene. Leave those kind of scenes to Penelope and Kate.

Anyway, let the Nicole Kidman PR machine for Nine run its course. She is on a mission to remind you that she is still a big movie star.

Early Big Bird Christmas Shopping

At least Keith lets her pull the trolley

Nicole and Keith didn't want to miss out on any Christmas decoration bargains, and got down early to the Home Depot Store in LA. Fortunately, someone with a digital camera just happened to be nearby, and snapped some shots of the eager shoppers. Amazing how the cameras are always around whenever Nicole steps out. Or is it just a coincidence?

Boobs and Lips: Finally the World Catches Up

Boob Job? The world media thinks so, or is it thanks to baby?

As for the lips ... well, Mick Jagger wants them back!

This past week has been a journey I am sure Nicole planned but perhaps didn't think out carefully. After showing off her enlarged boobs at the recent CMA Awards, the world media quickly flattened them back to their normal teeny-weeny size. They criticised them! Nicole quickly came back and said her boobs were bigger from breastfeeding Sunday Rose. Somehow we can't see Nicole doing any breastfeeding, can you?

Then the media started speculating about her bigger fuller lips. These new lips really first appeared during her PR stints for The Golden Compass in Japan some 2 years ago. However, because of the recent focus on her boobs, everyone is now noticing the fuller lips. Nicole once had the thinnest lips in Hollywood, and was all gums too. Yes, and even the gums have been fixed up too it seems. Some serious teeth work, perhaps?

If only she hadn't said she was completely natural, the media would have let all this slip by. Is it better to be honest from the start, or is a woman entitled to secret alterations? On the other hand, is it better to accept what God has given you, or is it necessary in this day and age to attack any part of your body to look younger? Hmmm.

Nicole's Big Apple Day

Night Out with Sunday Morning Meeting

Sunday Rose was only too pleased to tag along with Mum on a night-out in New York this week to see why the city is known as the best city in the world. We're not sure how many nightclubs they visited, but we hope they had a great time. Interestingly, Nicole managed to hold Sunday long enough to convince photographers and reporters that, despite her skinny frame, she was strong enough to handle this task. Let's face it, some toddlers are heavy to carry around.

Earlier that day, Nicole was seen leaving a meeting in New York. Was the meeting to determine visitation rights, or was it to get Gywen to sign the dotted line? Maybe it was a meeting with her plastic surgeon to discuss the next round of facial enhancements.

Black is black, that day ... that's for sure!

Nicole's busty CMA outing

Dolly Parton ... eat your heart out!

Nicole tagged along with hubby Keith Urban for the annual Country Music Awards (CMA) this week. Keith picked up the Musical Event of the Year Award but missed out on all four major categories, thanks to the currently popular Taylor Swift. Nobody comes close to Taylor these days, it seems.

More interesting was Nicole's busty appearance clearly showing the surgical enhancements of recent years. As we all know, Nicole was once a flat-chested Aussie with freckles.

Overall, Nicole looked quite good on the CMA evening, but you would too if you'd had all the 'assistance' she regularly has.

Gwyenth saves the day!

Out Always In Replacement?

It seems for many years there has been talk of a movie that Nicole will produce and star in called The Danish Girl. For some reason, this movie just doesn't seem to get off the ground. Is it because of the difficult theme? Nicole is supposed to play a man who becomes a woman. Is this beyond her acting abilities? Mmm, maybe.

The Danish Girl is based on a true story of a couple who maintained an unconvential marriage until Einar Wegener (Kidman) began a series of sex change operations in 1929. The King of Demark declared their marriage invalid. Wegener underwent five operations to become a woman., but died at 49 years of age after complications following surgery.

Charlize Theron was set to play Nicole's husband, but recently pulled out. Who knows the real reason Charlize did that. It could have been because she didn't want to be associated with box office poison Nicole, or she may have been offered a better role.

Not to worry, there are always other actresses prepared to step in to save the day. And who better to play Nicole's husband than another box office poison, Gwyen Paltrow. Gwyen has signed on, and now filming may finally begin. Notice I say may? Well you just never know. This film has a long history of 'being in the works'.

Nicole's exciting sex life. Yawn!

"Meow! Hand me that whip Tom, then bend over!"

'Mundane' to 'strange sexual fetish stuff' is how Nicole Kidman has described her experience of marriage to GQ Magazine (British edition) - which hits the stands this Thursday.

Nicole explained "I've explored obsession. I've explored loss and love in terms of being in a grief-stricken place, I've explored strange sexual fetish stuff and the mundane aspect of marriage."

Nicole once again took the chance to remind us all that she was married to TOM CRUISE. She said: "I became famous very young. I became very famous because I was the wife of somebody. I know my agents at the time were like 'do not get married, it will ruin your career' and I was like 'but I'm in love'. All I know is that I was someone who wasn't interested in fame. And that's not why I got married. I wanted to work with people who intrigued me."

Nicole also revealed in the interview that she burns all her diaries, so none of the juicy stuff will ever be revealed. For example - who is the real mother of Sunday. Or how many men did Tom have sex with during their marriage. Jeez, fancy writing all these diaries, just to burn them! Sounds like another boring Kidman interview - agree? Not interested in fame? Ha! Pigs may fly.

Australian Film Industry snubs Kidman

"Don't worry about the AFI, Nicole. You still got to work with me!"

The nominations for the 51st AFI Awards were announced last week. Lady Kidman was overlooked for a best actress nomination in Australia, while the film also missed out on a best picture nomination. Hugh Jackman and Baz Luhrmann also missed out on nominations. The film has picked up nominations in other categories, including best supporting actor (Brandon Walters). Let's admit it, the kid was probably the best thing about the film.

Despite doing reasonably well at the Box Office in Australia, the film received poor reviews from critics worldwide. Kidman's performance was heavily criticised, and she was also overlooked at the Academy Awards earlier this year. It's no surprise to Nicole Kidman's Journey that Nic missed out on a nomination in her home country. The film was way too long, and it was difficult watching a wooden performance, frozen face and pumped lips for nearly three hours.

Sophie Lowe and Frances Oconnor are among the nominees for best actress for their roles in Beautiful Kate and Blessed. The AFI Awards will be held on 12 December in Melbourne. I guess we won't see Nicole and Keith in the audience, right?

The winner is ...

Two magic moments?

Results are in for Nicole Kidman's Most Staged Moment. And would you believe, two moments have tied at No. 1! They are:

• Nicole's appearance on Oprah where she produced a photograph of Sunday, after previously telling the world media she would never show her baby. It was such a staged moment, particularly when she claimed the photo was taken on Keith's mobile camera, yet was obviously a professionally taken photo. How many mothers go to sleep with make-up on?

• Also coming in at No. 1 was the infamous ARIA 2007 appearance where Nicole turned up in a see-through black dress revealing her G-string and bra. Not a classy look for a 40 year old woman. Nicole pretended to be unaware of what was on view, and a coat was handed to her sometime later to put on.

Thanks again for voting. Stay tuned for a new poll on Nicole Kidman's Journey.

Nicole speaks out with her luscious lips

Wanna see a slight crease in the forehead?
Click on image to enlarge.
Note: A microscope may be needed.

Nicole Kidman gave evidence to the US Congress this week which is considering legislation to address violence against women overseas. As we all know, Nicole is a UN Ambassador for Violence Against Women.

Nicole claimed that film makers could do more to guard against such violence, but insisted the industry was making efforts to address the issue. Nicole speaks from experience, considering many of her own films show violence against women including Dogville and Dead Calm.

There is a slight crease in Nicole's forehead. Nicole knows if she wants to be taken seriously, she needs to lay off the Botox a bit. Looks like she may have on this occasion. Or perhaps the Botox Clinic ran out of stock.

Halloween is fast approaching

Don't be caught missing out on your Nicole Kidman costume for Halloween this year. Nicole Kidman's Journey is offering 20% discounts on all wigs and noses to its readers in the lead-up to Halloween - one of the most fun days of the year. Just to show you how easy it is to get into the Halloween spirit, Nicole has kindly appeared in her 2009 costume above for us.

Strike a Pose: Vogue

Ahead of the 'Nine' movie release (apparently now rescheduled to after Christmas), Vogue's November 2009 cover features the leading ladies, including Madame Kidman. Reports have been less than kind for this photoshopped cover, particularly of Nicole's tranny looking facial features. We first mentioned the photo-shoot back in a February post when some reports then were stating that Nicole had returned to the red hair. However, as you can see from the above Vogue cover, it is actually a bad wig. Way too obvious in this photo. Who do they think they are kidding? Click here to see our February 2009 post.

This is my real hair and flawless skin ... honest!

Ms Kidman appeared at the Omega flagship shop party in New York this week. Some articles are raving about what she has done to her hair with the high ponytail. While other, more honest articles are telling it like it is i.e. that the hair is nothing more than a wig/hairpiece from the Kidman collection. As most of us know, Nicole's own hair is a thinning frizz-ball these days, but she'd prefer you to be sucked in by the positive reviews.

One thing none of the reports are denying is that she has been back to the Botox clinic. As these photos reveal, her skin is so tight and wrinkle free that she is unable to talk freely. Nicole has chosen to continue using Botox to achieve the shiny wrinkle-free face, but at what cost? There will be no Botox left for anyone else ! Worse still, who really knows the long-term effects of this rat poison product?

Top 10: Nicole's Most Staged Moments

Does Nicole Kidman like putting on a show when she is off-screen too? Here at Nicole Kidman's Journey we definitely think so. She loves to play it up for the camera, any attention will do nicely thank you. There have been so many staged moments for Lady Kidman, that it is very hard to find the 10 best. Nevertheless we have come up with some memorable performances. And she said she was a shy person, can you believe that?

You may not agree with what we have rated at No. 10, No. 5 or No 1 and so forth. You have the chance to vote for her best staged moment on the Poll at the top right corner. Let us know your thoughts too.

Let's count them down:

Nicole showed up in court in 2006 in a conservative outfit to face the wicked paparazzi, Jamie Fawcett. He allegedly chased her in his car and bugged her home. The only way anyone was going to feel sorry for Nicole was if she put on a sad, troubled face. The media bought it, the court bought it ... and the public had a good chuckle.

Most Oscar photo opportunities are staged moments for any star. But the above photos are truly staged moments for Lady Kidman. Not only did she think she was red hot in that red dress, but she snuggled up to big star Meryl Streep just to remind you she has friends in high places. Only problem was, the photo really proved she was a fan of Botox. She could barely smile.

Here we have the Kurbans at the Australia Tennis Open in 2007. They mastered watching when the cameras would pan around to them and then took every opportunity to remind you that they really were in love. And to ensure you always remembered, they promised to continue this 'look of love' at every public performance.

See I told you. Here we have them again, loving it up for the cameras at the 2009 CMA Awards. Unfortunately Nicole decided to show her boney lily white back through the strapless black frock. I get the feeling these dresses are made for people with tanned backs?

Nicole likes to visit the Sydney Children's Hospital every time she is in Australia (which is very rarely). This is very kind of her to do this, but somehow the media are always there to film her. Why is that?

Oh no! Here we go again. The cameras are panning around to the Kurbans, this time at the US Open in 2009. Quick, let's kiss Keith so everyone knows we are besotted with each other.

This is a real favourite. The Kurbans at the CMA Awards in 2008. At that time, there were some nasty rumours going around that Nicole wasn't really pregnant, and if she was, the belly was ever so tiny. This cleverly staged moment was designed to show that even Keith believed there was a baby in there.

Here we have Nicole and first husband Tom departing Australia in 1993 following a family visit with their adopted children, Connor and Isabella. If there was any speculation that Nicole didn't really enjoy being a mother then, this photo was set to prove the critics wrong. Can't you see the adoration in her eyes? I wonder if she still remembers these kid's names.

Here we have Nicole on Oprah in early 2009. Now let's remember that Nicole swore she would never show the world what her baby, Sunday Rose, looked like. Oprah asked if she could see a photo of Sunday Rose, so Nicole produced a perfect snapshot from her purse. The whole thing just looked so staged, especially the professionally shot photo, which Nicole said Keith had taken with his mobile camera. Hmmm.

Here we have the No. 1 Staged Moment. Nicole Kidman at the 2007 ARIAS in Australia. This was the first of many ocassions when Nicole would wear see-through dresses with designer G-strings to remind you what a sexy, slender body she has. Of course she pretended she was unaware that people could see through it. Then about half an hour lately, a coat was handed to her. We think she was told, not asked, to put that coat on! Afterall, ARIAs is telecast during family viewing time.

Now you have seen what this Blog rates as the 10 most staged Nicole Kidman moments. Don't forget to vote for the one you think is the best (see top right corner). Feel free to comment too on other moments you remember. There are countless.

Nicole gets a touch-up in time for dinner

Nicole met up with best friend Naomi Watts this week for the annual Important Dinner for Women (No. 4) in New York City. Nicole has clearly had a lip injection done and some more botox. How can we tell? Just look at her in comparison to Naomi. What we all love about Naomi is she is natural, and doesn't care about her wrinkles. Way to go Naomi! Also in attendance on the night were Naomi Campbell, Jessica Alba and lots of other women.

While Nicole thought the dinner was to honour her contributions to the film industry, we are assured that the dinner was much more important and deeper than that. Still, a great way to get some publicity ahead of a new movie coming out.

"Quick Keith! Kiss me! The cameras are on us"

We all know Nicole and Keith like going to the tennis ... but not to watch it. They go to the tennis to be noticed. Remember when they attended the Australian Open two years ago? As soon as the cameras were on them, they did the "kissing routine". Just to remind you that they are in love.

The same ritual was seen this week at the US Open. Good to see that Nicole's hair extensions didn't get in the way. Thank god for that.

Shots from Rabbit Hole

Scenes from Nicole's new movie "The Rabbit Hole"

This is the movie tipped to turn Nicole's career around after a long series of flops. Above are scenes from Rabbit Hole, a film which is now in post production. It is about a couple who have lost their son, and also stars Aaron Eckhart. The film was originally about a rabbit who moves to New York after her hole was filled with dirt. However, scriptwriters changed the story as they were unable to find a rabbit costume big enough for Nicole to fit into.

It will be interesting to see if Nicole can shed the tears necessary for her role as a grieving mother. We'll see. There is always the onion trick. Somehow I just can't see Nicole pulling this off. I hope I am wrong for the sake of her career.

The white dress that does nothing for her

Enjoying summer weather in Nashville recently was little Sunday Rose and her mum, Nicole. Sunday is pretty cute, but I still can't any resemblance to Nicole. Others do apparently, I just see more of Keith in Sunday.

Some mention of Nicole's other child this week, Connor. Tom is strongly encouraging him to continue with movies following his role in Seven Pounds. On the other hand, Nicole would prefer it if he didn't. And it's not just because the kid can't act to save his life. Nicole knows from personal experience that being in movies can be soul destroying. Why? One flop after another, what else! Tom doesn't get off the hook, though. He's been in quite a few flops himself in recent times. Who could forget "Lions for Lambs"?

Wax Nicole unveiled in Hong Kong

Three of these photos are of the new Nicole wax work in Hong Kong. Can you spot the other photo which is of the real Nicole? If so, you deserve a medal

Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum in London unveiled their Nicole wax work in 2007. Now their Hong Kong branch has paid tribute to the wrinkle-free darling by releasing their wax version. Once again the public cannot tell the difference because Nicole, with all her Botox and plastic surgery, looks like a wax work. This has caused chaos at the Hong Kong museum with the public seen poking and kicking the Nicole wax statue trying to get it to say something. The locals are convinced Nicole has moved to Hong Kong.

Nicole Kidman Sacks Publicists

Hollywood actress Nicole Kidman would have benefited the American public, after the recent spate of flops at the box office. The Australian actress had parted ways with publicist Olim officials from PMK / HBH agency.

During their employment relationship, Kidman won an Oscar for The Hours, and a nomination for Moulin Rouge, reports the Daily Telegraph.

According DeadlineHollywood.com, Kidman appointed publicist Leslee Dart, who also looks after Tom Hanks, Jessica Lange, Clive Owen and Kate Winslet. However, Wendy Day, who manages the affairs confidential Australian actress said she was unaware of the new agreement Kidman.

Production of new film hopping along nicely

Click on photo to enlarge

New photos from the film set of The Rabbit Hole see Bunny Nicole dressed in a nice black dress suit ready for her first day on the job at a pet store. This new movie promises to show Nicole's full acting range, although she is not new to playing animals. You may recall she played a dog in Dogville.

While we are thrilled to see Nicole back to being a redhead, we'd like to point out the grey roots evident in the middle face photo. Can you see them too? Oh well, even rabbits grow old, you know!

Nicole's sister runs, but won't eat

Is Antonia trying to copy Nicole's exercise mad ways? Click on picture to enlarge.

Exercise mad Antonia Kidman continues to lose kilos in an effort to possibly avoid the dreaded "Kidman Tummy" which all the Kidman women apparently inherit. Younger sister Antonia was photographed in Sydney the other day looking painfully thin (see top left). This follows on from her appearance at the April 2009 ASTRA Awards (bottom left and right) where onlookers were concerned about her gaunt looking face and general frailness. One mean journalist described her look as "Bride of Frankenstein" at those awards.

Antonia apparently runs 15km each day. Let's hope the mother of four isn't trying to copy big sister Nicole's mad exercise regime and lettuce eating ways.

Nicole Kidman Shooting at Bayside's Papazzio

he trailers arrived before 5 a.m. and as Bell Boulevard came to life a few hours later – with restaurants and nail salons rolling up their security gates for the day – the bustling mid-morning scene looked like something out of a movie.

And that’s just what it was.

On Monday, June 29, Papazzio Restaurant and Catering became the eatery of choice for the lead characters played by Nicole Kidman and Aaron Eckhart in “Rabbit Hole,” an independent film based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning play of the same name.


For Eddy Collyns, the film’s location manager, shooting in Bayside was a natural decision.

“It’s got many different looks: the small homes, the big homes, the parks,” said Collyns, who, having worked as the location manager for the television series “Rescue Me,” has worked in the community on numerous other occasions and called it accessible and “a nice place to film.”

Collyns said that 90 percent of the filming for “Rabbit Hole” has been in Queens, with three days of shooting in Bayside kicking off with the morning at Papazzio, located at 39-38 Bell Boulevard.

Producer Leslie Urdang, a native of Forest Hills now living in Los Angeles, was happy to be back in Queens for production of the film whose plot is actually set in the borough.

“We think this is a charming village and a charming restaurant. It looks great and will be very cinematic,” Urdang said of the Papazzio scene, at which Kidman and Eckhart’s characters discuss whether to continue with group therapy. In the stage drama, a married couple struggles to cope with the automobile-accident death of their only child.

Urdang said the crew looked at Italian restaurants across the borough and ended up renting the Bell Boulevard destination because of “a combination of the artistic look and feel of the place and the logistics of it,” like its proximity to other production locations.

Papazzio owner Dominick Bruccoleri said the exposure was not only beneficial for his restaurant but for all of Bayside.

“You’ve got a high-rated picture that’s being filmed here and it brings good attention to our community, both on a business level and on a community level,” said Bruccoleri, who will appear in the film as the kitchen chef in the background. “It’s not just for Papazzio – It’s for Bayside and Bayside Village.”

However, while some residents craned their necks to get a look at the superstar cast, others shook their heads at the parking problems the shoot created.

One woman, observing the tickets on two crewmembers’ cars, remarked that she did not mind the filming but said the city should have posted more signs notifying people of the parking disruptions.

“Believe me, if they ticket me there will be a scene,” she said, opening up an orange ticket envelope on a stranger’s car and examining its contents. “Where is a traffic agent when you need one? There are thousands when you don’t need one.”

Meanwhile, Eugene Giannola, a Queens resident of 80 years, stood on the sidewalk, surveying the scene with a smile on his face.

“I’m just watching,” Giannola admitted, adding that the action would help put Bell Boulevard – “a very important street” – on the map.

Ted Apodiacos, the owner of Pete’s Pizzeria and Restaurant, just down the block from Papazzio, agreed with Giannola, but said a little extra business from the crew would not hurt either.

“Everybody’s hoping for something, you know,” he said, smiling.

“Rabbit Hole” has, in fact, contributed to the local economy. In addition to the Northern Boulevard Starbucks that Collyns said the crew patronized en masse, the production also rented Bayside United Methodist Church as a “holding area” and a neighboring home for use as a crew bathroom.

And, three weeks ago, the entire “Rabbit Hole” crew had lunch at Papazzio, in an effort to get accustomed to the space.

“They wanted a nice, warm Tuscany-type restaurant,” Bruccoleri explained. “And they said, ‘You’re the perfect fit.’ They loved the ambience, the décor, the feel of us.”

Overall, Bruccoleri said that his restaurant’s morning in the limelight was a great experience, with little impact on the neighbors. He would gladly offer it up for the cameras again someday, he said.

“For a star-rated movie and a world class actor and actresses to come here,” Bruccoleri said, “it puts Bayside right on top.”

Nicole's birthday present from Keith

Nicole stepped out of her New York apartment yesterday to show off the new light blue cardigan she received for her recent 42nd birthday. The Style Icon was keen to give New Yorkers some tips on how to get the dowdy look this summer. I don't know about you, but Nicole looks particularly Grannyish in this outfit. Agree? Perhaps that's the look this summer.

Happy 42nd Birthday, Gran!

Then and Now ... with Daddy Kidman

Nicole turned 42 the other day. Yes, I know what you are thinking! You thought she looked more like 50 (with those wrinkly red hands). Anyway, in usual style, Nicole decided to reflect on the special day by thinking about her break-up with Tom Cruise (yep, again!) This time around though, Nicole thanked her father for the support he gave during that difficult marriage meltdown:

"When my marriage fell apart, I needed to reach out to my dad. He was wonderful," she said. He stood by me, comforted me; showed me, at a time when I really needed to see it, the way a man can be strong, dignified and loving. I'm very grateful that I had such a good father, to see me through that time, because it put me in good stead for trusting again the next time I fell in love.It wasn't until I was older that I really realised how special my father is, too."

Thank you, Nicole. Where would we be without your regular soul bearing sessions? Many happy returns for your birthday. Save us some cake!

Red Rabbit Nicole

Nicole has finally listened to this Blog and realised the blonde hair extensions made her look old and pale. So, Nicole started returning to the red hair extensions slowly but surely. Now the extensions are even redder, just in time for her new movie The Rabbit Hole (see photos above).

The Rabbit Hole is currently filming in New York. Nicole plays a rabbit who comes home one afternoon to find that her hole has been filled up with dirt by a horrible hunter.  Unable to get the dirt out and save her belongings, Nicole hops to New York in search of a better hole to live in. On the way, she visits a pet store and changes her fur to bright red. The film is tipped to give the new Disney film Bugs Bunny Does New York a run for its money.  Where is Alex Forrest (Glenn Close) from Fatal Attraction when you need her most?

'Kidman Tummy' on show again

Some of the world media are once again claiming Nicole is pregnant after she stepped out on Wednesday night in a red nightie - revealing a tummy or bump. 

How often do they need to be reminded that it's more likely the 'Kidman tummy' that is on display ... the one all the Kidman women have.  Nicole, you must learn to suck in when the Paps are watching you! 

"Nine" gets some things right

More news from the upcoming film NINE is that Nicole will be singing some songs. Nicole has done it before in 2001 for Moulin Rouge and also a duet with Robbie Williams.  We're not saying she's a brilliant singer, but we've heard alot worse.

In the movie NINE, Nicole is almost suitably cast as an 'ageing sexbomb' who chases after Daniel Day-Lewis. They got the 'ageing' part right, but the 'sexbomb' part? This should be 'vixen'.

Nicole dumps Woody

Lady Nicole has apparently quit the new Woody Allen film this week after learning how to read a script and not liking what she read.  A replacement is yet to be announced.

See if you can pick the other reason why Nicole left the project:

1. Nicole was not prepared to take a small part against best friend Naomi's meatier part.
   
2. Nicole would rather tag along on Keith's tour for the rest of the year to keep an eye on him.
   
3. Nicole is pregnant and has dreadful morning sickness.
   
4. The other cast members had refused to work with Nicole because they were worried her name would mean the film would flop. 
   
5. Keith demanded that Nicole keep to her promise of retiring from making movies. Frankly the world has had enough of her movies ... therefore Keith is right to demand this.
   

Perhaps you may have a better reason.  Good news is, the world is now a better place because there will be one less Kidman movie to flop.

Keith's Tour Underway: No Fun Allowed

Keith Urban's latest tour has well and truly started. The tour bus is all fired up, and has even been modified and lengthened to include private quarters to accommodate Nicole and Sunday (who plan to tag along for portions of the journey). The tour will see Keith busy right up until the end of the year, at least. 

Keith has already been besieged by groupies and the temptation of after-concert parties. Luckily with Nicole on board, there will be no chance of Keith enjoying himself too much, or too hard.  

No Australian dates have yet been confirmed. Apparently this is because the huge tour bus will not fit on the plane.   Bummer, I was so looking forward to jumping on stage and singing "I thank you, I thank you, for NOT being my wife!"

WARNING! The most stupid commercial ever! Wait for the cut version!

Nicole's Ginger Ale commercial was released this week on various websites.  This is the commercial that Nicole recently made in India with the 'Slumdog Millionaire' girl for Indian audiences. It was directed by Ridley Scott and makes no sense!  It tries to be cute too, but is really just another cringe-worthy Kidman project. 

View the complete uncut commercial here.  Warning! Have a bucket ready! The commercial is truly vomit inducing.

The cut version of the commercial, which completely removes Nicole Kidman, makes much more sense!  It will be available very soon because apparently Ginger Ale sales in India have crashed since the uncut commercial was released.  

Nicole now gets an additional label. Not only is she 'Box Office Poison', but also 'TV Poison' (well, in India anyway). 

Keith Urban: "We love Oz but get no privacy"

"The kangaroos and kookaburras are too noisy, and won't leave us alone!"

"We live in Australia because the Kurbans don't. It gives us peace and quiet!"
Clockwise from top: Cate Blanchette, Guy Pearce, Judy Davis, Toni Collette, Eric Bana and Russell Crowe

It's usually Nicole who says she loves Australia but simply can't live or spend too much time here because the paparazzi invade her every move.  Now Keith is saying similar in an April interview with the Sunday Telegraph Magazine. An excerpt from the interview about this issue is below:

"Within my art, I will speak about what I want to speak about, but that's not the same as someone shoving a camera lens in your face when you're at the beach. I don't get it in Nashville, which is one of the many reasons we love being there. But we love being in Australia too, but it's a bit of that intrusiveness that sometimes keeps us from spending time in places we'd like to be."

Keith - don't forget that you were once able to roam Australia freely without anyone bothering you before you became Mr Nicole Kidman. You brought all of this on yourself. You were largely unknown in this country; your fan base was almost non-existent. You are now famous by association (just like Nicole was when she was married to Tom).  You may have forgotten that your wife actually encourages the paparazzi when she is Australia. That's right. She'll ring up radio stations telling them she is in town and ask everyone to leave her alone. 

Keith - as this Blog has stated before, many Australian actors choose to live in Australia and do so comfortably (see their photo's above). You rarely see their names and photos in the papers here. They do not seek out attention.  Their pictures and names are provided so you can call them if you need any ideas on how to achieve a comfortable visit here, or a future permanent stay.  

Keith - we do understand that you need to live in Nashville for your music career. We also understand that Nicole would get bored living in Australia again, and the Paps would get bored with her fast too. Australia is too far from the big overseas parties and opportunities that your darling Nicole loves.   

It's all OK though! You can change your minds when your parents get older and need you more. Not to mention the lonely alpacas you bought at Easter for the Bunya Hill homestead - they are awaiting your next visit.  Come home soon!

UNIFEM: Nicole's saving grace?

What is an actress to do when the movie roles dry up fast? A common problem with actresses in their 40s. However, many would argue that if a person is a good actor then the film offers will keep rolling in, regardless of their age. Just look at Meryl Streep, for example. Luckily Nicole still has the UNIFEM Ambassador role to fall back on, which still allows her some of the public adoration she craves.

This week Nicole welcomed the Australian Government's plan to reduce violence against women which sees it committing to recommendations outlined in a major report prepared by the National Council to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children. In excerpts from her statement, Nicole Kidman commends the Australian Government’s action:

"As UNIFEM's Goodwill Ambassador, for the past three years I've worked to amplify women's voices and shine a light on the global pandemic of violence against women and girls, which affects as many as one in three during their lifetime. The more I've learned, the clearer it is that ending violence against women is a problem with solutions. I commend the National Council to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children, and the Government of Australia, for their strong endorsement to implement targeted actions. The national plan calls for actions and investment. As spokesperson for UNIFEM's Say NO to Violence against Women campaign, I've seen that Governments from many parts of the world are increasingly recognizing that ending violence against women is a national and international priority. Australia's leadership, through the national plan to reduce violence against women, sends a strong and hopeful signal that working together, we can change attitudes and practices and prevent these crimes against women and girls. It takes us all to 'say NO to Violence' and provide the services and accountability that will literally save women's lives."

As this Blog has said before, initiatives like UNIFEM are examples of where movie stars or ex-movie stars can use their names for worthwhile causes. However, whether Nicole should be allowed to write her own speeches is another issue. Think especially of the cringe worthy "March for Babies" speech. Perhaps she got some help this time round.