Russell Crowe 'had tough Les Mis audition'

(Cover) - EN Movies - Russell Crowe reportedly felt like he was being judged by “ten Simon Cowells” when he auditioned for Les Misérables.
The actor portrays policeman Javert in Tom Hooper’s musical movie adaptation of Victor Hugo’s novel.
Russell was desperate to win the part as soon as he heard the film was in the pipeline and was reportedly willing to do anything to secure it. He had to show off his vocal skills in front of many of those involved with the production, which was daunting. It’s been claimed Russell felt like he was trying out for a singing competition in front of famed acid-tongued reality show judge Simon.
“He had to come in and sing live on stage in London in front of a huge panel, including the director, producers and various actors who had played Javert on Broadway,” an insider told National Enquirer.
“It was like ten Simon Cowells! They didn’t hold anything back and he was really vulnerable because he’s insecure about his singing. He felt like a freshman in high school auditioning for the school play. No one seemed to care that he was Russell Crowe, the Oscar winner.”
After his performance, Russell was reportedly given feedback on how he had done. Although it was hard, he was determined to show he was the perfect choice for the iconic role.
“They totally grilled him, giving him notes and rigorous critiques. He said it was the most difficult audition of his life but that he was desperate to win the role,” the source explained.
Anne Hathaway is Fantine in the release and has already been nominated for a host of awards for her portrayal of the sickly prostitute. She is expected to receive an Academy Award nod and has previously admitted she was pleased with her audition.
“Sometimes you leave a room and you feel like maybe you’ve left the door open a crack. This time, I knew that I had slammed it shut behind me," she said.