Woody Going Bilingual in Barcelona; Cruz Attached?

Roger Friedman has an epic dispatch from Wednesday's annual amfAR dinner at Cipriani 42nd Street, where Woody Allen spoke in praise of the AIDS research org's founding chairman Mathilde Krim and in sparse reference to his next film, the long-rumored "Spanish project":

I think I can tell you exclusively that Penelope Cruz, the hottest star going right now, is set to headline Woody Allen’s next project.

The untitled comedy-drama will film all summer in Barcelona, where Allen will move his family and crew.

Woody told me only that much last night ... The Spanish film -- in which Penelope will speak both Spanish and English -- is the latest in a line of dramas for Woody. ... But before he begins production on the Cruz film, Woody still has to bring out Cassandra’s Dream. He told me that one is “heavy” and “serious” and “more like Match Point. If you liked that one, you’re going to love this.”

Indeed, Friedman showed Woody the protein stains on his pants from that not-so-long-ago night he took the sultry thriller in, reminding readers as well, "It was my pick for best film of 2005." In any event, I can't believe I'm quoting Roger Friedman, but hey -- news is news, especially the part about Woody's speech going so well that Garry Shandling introduced himself. Jesus -- when you're hot, you're hot.

Posted at February 1, 2007 1:17 PM