Stars come out for UK's 'australia' film premiere

The London premiere of Baz Luhrmann's new epic, Australia - the best publicity the country has had in ages - attracted a glitzy crowd...

The stars of the film, Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman, were joined on the red carpet by Sir Elton John, Twiggy and TV presenter Konnie Huq among other celebrities at Leicester Square's Odeon cinema.

Director, writer and producer Luhrmann was joined by his wife, Oscar-winning costume designer Catherine Martin.

Luhrmann said, "I think there is a special relationship between Australia and England and actually my films were discovered here. Strictly Ballroom was discovered in London and it ran for 10 weeks at number one, it was so unexpected. And here I am back after all these years with this film. It feels good, it really does."

Martin added, "It's always very exciting. This is our fourth film we've premiered in London. We have a lot of friends here so there are nerves and excitement because we want all our friends to like the movie, but it's a great town to be in."

Kidman braved the cold in a sparkling white dress but resorted to a chic black overcoat for warmth as she signed autographs for fans. The Oscar-winning actress said of the film: "I hope people like it and it makes them fall in love with my country. I hope they realise it's funny and romantic and it's a popcorn movie."

Kidman recently said she would be giving up acting to spend more time with husband Keith Urban and daughter Sunday Rose, born this year. Asked if this could be her last film role she laughed, "Close to it."

Jackman insisted he is nothing like his stereotypical Aussie macho character Drover.

He said, "He's a pretty classic archetypal Male macho Aussie bloke. I'm just like him!

"No, there are differences. I'm not that tough. I actually fainted on the very first day of filming so that wasn't very cool. That kind of gave me away a little bit."

Source: Press Association