Russell Crowe on 'steely' Ron Howard

Russell Crowe says Ron Howard is "tempered steel".

The 50-year-old actor worked under the direction of the American filmmaker in A Beautiful Mind and Cinderella Man, both of which saw Russell pick up awards. Having got to know Ron well during these periods, Russell is in complete awe of his skills behind the camera.

"You can say certain things that are fundamentally true about people you work with as much as you like, but if it doesn't match up with what has been pre-decided, then it's still not going to become a part of the general consciousness. But here's the thing about Ron Howard - he's tempered steel," Russell explained to Empire magazine. "He is so knowledgeable about what makes a day on a film set work. He has the exact right fluidity to do the job with finesse and grace."

The star spoke about other directors he has collaborated with too. Ridley Scott was among them, with who Russell has shot masterpieces such as Gladiator and American Gangster. The filmmaker is one of Russell's favourite people thanks to his charm and ability to be an inspiring leader.

Darren Aronofsky was also named thanks to his 2014 flick Noah. Russell played the title role alongside Emma Watson, Jennifer Connelly and Sir Anthony Hopkins.

"He is the central place where all questions go and where all internal decisions will come from," Russell gushed about Darren. "Film requires a relentless energy, which is something you understand when you come out of the independent world and go into the studio world. The nature of the pursuit does not change. The budget goes up but it's the same thing. Darren knows that."