Crowe co-star understands temperamental star

Russell Crowe's Cinderella Man co-star Fulvio Cecere has offered the temperamental superstar his support following his phone-throwing tantrum, but admits Crowe is a difficult guy to deal with.

Cecere, who plays a referee in the boxing drama, admits he can understand why Crowe lost his cool while staying at New York City's Mercer Hotel - the actor has an edgy side to him which makes him difficult to communicate with.

Speaking to Moviehole.net, the Canadian actor says: "Russell is a bit of a mystery and enigma. He can be the most generous and gregarious person ever and then there can be days that you don't want to bother him.

"I don't profess to know him that well but I'd have to say that overall my experiences with him have been great. I do know that he is one of the best actors I've ever worked with and I believe that he is one of the best actors of our generation.

"As for the phone-throwing incident: well, he does have a temper but haven't we all secretly wanted to throw something at someone when they annoy us. I'm not advocating violence or that type of behaviour but I can understand the frustration."