12-19-2004  Official Site is up with a 2½ minute Teaser Trailer.  Also, the Trailer Page is back up with several links to view both the teaser trailer and the promotional trailer that was once on the site for all to view.

     A very close source also reported that pick up shots were done recently including a re-shoot of the ending.  Apparently, the production team was not satisfied with how the film ended on a test audience.

10-25-2004  Last week, figures.com had this to report:

Meet the new face of adventure!

Prepare for the ride of your life! Clive Cussler’s international bestselling book Sahara will soon be a Hollywood motion picture and 21st Century Toys has the exclusive toy license to produce 1:6 figures and 1:18 figures and vehicles.

In the last days of the Civil War, an Ironclad ship carrying the Confederate Treasury disappearted into the fog during the battle.

Today, a mysterious microbe threatens to destroy all life in the sea. A disease in North Africa drives the population into madness, cannibalism, and death.

Dirk Pitt, an intrepid adventurer and member of the National Underwater and Marine Agency (NUMA), investigates. Along with U.N. Scientist Dr. Eva Aojas, played by Penelope Cruz, and sidekick Albert Giordano, played by Steve Zahn, Pitt discoveres a mystery that ties together the missing Ironclad, President Lincoln’s assassination, the North African illness, and the seaborne microbe.

In conjunction with the film’s release next year, 21st Century Toys will have two 12” figures, three 1:18 scale vehicles, and two 1:18 scale figures on toy shelves.

12” Dirk Pit: Featuring a fully possible 12”, 21st Century Toys body, realistic clothing from the film, and a head sculpt of Matthew McConaughey.

12” Albert Giordano: Featuring a fully possible 12”, 21st Century Toys body, realistic clothing from the film, and a head sculpt of Steve Zahn.

1:18 Dirk Pitt and Albert Giordano figures: fully articulated, 4” tall figures with sculpted facial features from the actual actors.

1:18 UH1-C Huey: in scale with the 1:18 figures, this helicopter will feature paint applications to the exact specifications of the helicopter seen in the film.

MB Vehicle: in scale with the 1:18 figures, this off-road jeep will be an exact replica of the jeep featured in the film.

M-48 Patton Tank: featuring working treads and realistic detailing, this tank will, like the other two vehicles, be in scale with the 1:18 figures and be an exact replica to the tank seen in the film.

Look forward to more news and information on this hit film in the future!

I checked out their website, but there is no mention about the products or a target date for the initial release.  (Thanks to "Scooter")

Also, Dr. Cussler was recently in Washington D.C. for the National Book Festival presented by The Library of Congress and First Lady, Laura Bush.  The event was held on Saturday, October 9.  I wasn't able to attend but they did post his Q&A with the crowd on their website.

The highlights of the Q&A were 2 questions to the Doc about the film, Sahara.  Here is a transcript ( I tried to type it as accurate as possible.) of what he had to say about the unauthorized film.

Q:  Would you ever reconsider and allow another movie to be made?
A:  You would have to touch on that.  As of course you know Raise the Titanic was a monumental disaster.  An so they're making a new one now called Sahara.  So I thought this time in the contract, I get casting and script approval.  So I dumped about seven or eight scripts.  They just weren't up to snuff.  And I kept saying 'I don't know who's book they're adapting but it's  not mine.'  And finally they said you know 'The heck with you'.  So they went out and shot a script I didn't approve.  So I'm suing the Bastards.  (applause from crowd) I joked about that because I really would be surprised if the movie is any good from what I heard.  But if it is a blockbuster, I come out both ways.  And I was telling my agent, that if it's a big success, I'll puke all the way to the bank.

Q:  How are your impressions of Matthew McConaughey and Steve Zahn as the characters (Dirk Pitt and Albert Giordino)
A:  I'm not crazy about Steve Zahn.  He's not Giordino.  And they turned it into kinda like a buddy farce I think.  And these two (Dirk and Al in the novels) never related like that.  McConaughey is what we could get.  I would have liked to got Hugh Jackman but he went to New York to be in a play.  And as I have always said unfortunately, Errol Flynn is dead.

To view the entire cybercast of the Q & A with Dr. Cussler, click here.  (Thanks to "Al")

9-1-2004  The SimonSays Cussler Messageboard and the Clive Cussler Forum have both reported that the actual film had a "special airing" in Los Angeles.  The film has been described as a "Director's Cut", apparently not the final edited cut that we'll see at the theatres (perhaps we'll see it in the DVD release).  But what isn't surprising is that Dr. Cussler and his people refused to attend.  Golly Gee..I wonder why..hmm... (Thanks to "Al")

8-31-2004  Cussler.net posted earlier this past week a trailer of the film.  The trailer is now posted here on the site.  (Thanks to "James")

     Also, I neglected to post two small bits of info on my last update because I did not check my e-mail that I would usually do.  And for that, I apologize to you and to my sources.

     First, IBI, made a correction with what they originally reported back on July 26 ( and what I had reported on August 5).  (Thanks to Dave Hyatt)

     "In a story on July 26 entitled Bombard Explorer 730 to feature in new film we wrongly stated that the Bombard Explorer DB 730 RIB, a high performance inflatable boat designed and manufactured by Zodiac, was to appear in a new action/adventure film Sahara, starring Penelope Cruz and Mattthew McConaughey. However the Bombard RIB was used only for filming purposes and will not feature in the film. We apologise for this error."  The boats that are actually being used in the film are Hunton 43s.

     Second, I received an e-mail last Monday (August 23) from a gentleman who works for the company that supplied the Hunton 43s in the film.  Here is the e-mail that he sent me last week.  (Thanks to Phil Goodacre)

     "I have been working on the Hunton 43's that they have used in the film the picture I send is not of the best quality but will get some more for you if you would like?

The boats are currently based in hamble point marina in Southampton England and are having a full refit for resale i have been told that they are going to be sold for around £150k each

They are fully equipped boats With all standard equipment aboard

They are powered by yanmar diesel inboard engines coupled to jet drive's the only ones i know of fitted to these boats.

There where 3 boats in total made 2 fully working (the ones i've been working on) and 1 to be blown up."

     I will have those photos posted once I receive them.  Stay Tuned Folks!

8-26-2004  Dr. Cussler recently sent a message to his fans on the SimonSays Message Board.  And this is what he had to say about the lawsuit.

"The law suit is in limbo. It won't go to court till next spring. The attorneys will be taking depositions next month, but beyond that I'm in the dark when it comes to legal proceedings.

No news on the movie except it's being cut by the director and edited. Have no idea how it turned out."

     The rest of what he had to say to his fans can be found at the above link.  Way to go Doc and keep plugging away!

8-5-2004  British Motor Yachts, an online magazine for the Marine Industry had a press release last week about the yacht that was being used in the film.

Film producers have selected a Bombard Explorer DB 730 RIB for a new action-adventure film, 'Sahara'. The film, starring Penelope Cruz, Matthew McConaughey and Steve Zahn follows the story of an intrepid adventurer who searches the Sahara for a deadly toxin that is killing marine life worldwide.

The producers required a high performance, versatile RIB in order to shoot several impressive river stunts, so they approached Lymington-based BHG Marine, the UK’s largest Avon Inflatables dealer, for advice in selecting the appropriate craft for the sequence.

BHG Company Director, Paul Martin commented, "The filming of such high-speed stunts required a RIB with particularly good handling and stability. The Bombard Explorer 730 was selected because of its capacity to carry the film crew and equipment safely and yet can achieve the speed and maneuverability necessary for filming such sequences".

The Production Company ordered 6 of the Explorers, which were delivered to the set in Morocco for immediate filming. Sahara is due for release in early 2005.
(Thanks to "Iron Kitten)

     Also, reporter Claudia Eller from the Los Angeles Times (registered users only) reported that Hollywood executives are skeptical about Philip Anschutz's production of Sahara after his big-budget $100 million movie "Around the World in 80 Days" had crashed at the box office.

     It is also stated that "Anschutz, in fact, is on a mission to cleanse movies of sex, foul language and violence, risking hundreds of millions of dollars to deliver family fare with uplifting messages."  Hmm..maybe that is why the cannibal scene at the beginning of the novel was taken out.  But I'm still trying to figure out why they took out the Lincoln conspiracy completely out.  Maybe he thought it wasn't "Dramatic Enough".  Go figure.

     Once again, Paramount opted not to be a 50-50 partner on the movie. Instead, it will receive a fee for distributing it domestically and in five territories outside the U.S.

"Sahara's" lead character, adventurer Dirk Pitt, is portrayed by Matthew McConaughey, who has not yet proved he can carry an expensive action-adventure movie. Likewise, the film's director, Breck Eisner, has never made a feature film, let alone one costing upward of $130 million. Eisner, 34, the son of Disney CEO Michael Eisner, has so far made his mark directing commercials and television shows.

Granat defended the casting of McConaughey, pointing to the once-unproved Brendan Fraser, who hit it big with "The Mummy" franchise. "This is simply going to elevate Matthew tremendously," Granat predicted. He also defended the practice of giving young filmmakers such as Eisner their first big shots.

Paramount Pictures Chairwoman Sherry Lansing said she, too, had confidence in the movie's cast and director. "We're extraordinarily excited about bringing the Clive Cussler franchise (Franchise?  What franchise?  You're already screwing it up!) to the big screen," she said.  (Thanks to "Dirk")

     The rumors that Mr. Anschutz allowed some of Dr. Cussler's requests back into the script to avoid the lawsuit have still not yet been confirmed.

7-16-2004  Sources close to the production team have stated that shooting has been completed and has moved on to post-production.

     Also, Iron Kitten sent this report that there is a Power boat in the movie called a Hunton 43, the production crew had one real one built and a half-working one which they blew to bits.  Iron Kitten  supplied the deck for the real one.  This apparently is the yacht that is described in the novel that Pitt, Giordino and Gunn uses to detect the red tide as they are sailing up the river.  Below, is a photo of the boat that will be seen in the film.  (Thanks to "Iron Kitten")

7-7-2004 Entertainment Tonight has finally released the behind the scenes interview with Matthew McConaughey and Penelope Cruz yesterday evening.  (Thanks to "Ace Roberts", "Dirk" and "Anonymous")

MATTHEW McCONAUGHEY and PENÉLOPE CRUZ are braving the blazing, shifting sands of the harsh Moroccan desert for their new action-adventure, 'Sahara,' and ET is on the set!
"It has something that reminds me of Indiana Jones," Penélope tells ET about the new endeavor. "It's that tone that is so magical. I miss those movies, and that's why I was so happy when they called me."
Based on the hugely popular CLIVE CUSSLER novel, Sahara is just one of 17 international, best-selling novels featuring action hero Dirk Pitt. In what is intended to be the first of numerous adaptations, 'Sahara' finds Dirk (Matthew) searching for Confederate gold coins that have inexplicably materialized in Nigeria. When he thwarts the attempted assassination of World Health Organization scientist Dr. Eva Rojas (Penélope), Dirk discovers a nefarious plot involving a deadly disease that could spread to epidemic proportions. With the help of his long-time partner, Al Giordino (the always plucky STEVE ZAHN), and state-of-the-art equipment provided by his boss, Admiral Sandecker (WILLIAM H. MACY), Dirk sets out to save the world from an environmental catastrophe.
World destruction may loom, but Matthew says there's still plenty of time for a little romance along the way: "I flirt a little bit with [Penélope] in the first half, and then we sort of come together in the second half and then it's a great fairly tale ending."
Did you doubt it would go any other way? The real question, however, is whether the filmmakers will be able to squeeze love scenes in between all of the spectacular action set pieces.
"We don't really have any, I'm sorry," apologizes Penélope. "There's one scene at the beach that's, like, the most romantic scene of the movie, but we don't really have any love scenes."
Love scene or no love scene, Matthew is obviously smitten with Penélope as an actress, and it appears those warm feelings may have also helped the Spanish beauty get over her spring breakup with TOM CRUISE. An off-set romance has reportedly blossomed between the two stars, and last month they were seen dining together at a number of London hot spots, although reps for each deny they are a couple.
"I think she adorable," Matthew reveals to ET about his doe-eyed co-star. "She sees everything for the first time, even if she's seen it many times before. There's a freshness and an innocence about that that I just find adorable."
Watch for 'Sahara' in theaters nationwide next year.

     Also, the Internet Movie Database has updated Delroy Lindo's casting role.  It appears that he is NOT playing General Kazim as originally reported.  Instead, he's playing CIA agent Carl.  A character that is not in Dr. Cussler's novel.  Go figure.

If anyone had noticed, the last 4 days of June caused a panic.  I ran out of bandwidth for the first time ever.  The main reason is because of the popularity of this section of the site.  Not including the video clips page on the RTT Movie Section. 

     I talked to my host provider and they have recommended that I keep a close eye on it this month.  If I exceed more than half of my bandwidth by the middle of the month, than I'm going to have to purchase some additional bandwidth. 

     Not only would you help support the cost and maintenance of the site but you would also help me out financially in retrieving new material to have posted on the site.  Whether it's research or maybe some long lost behind-the-scenes photos or video clips, you're helping to keep this site up and allowing me to digitally archive anything related to this film for you and others to view.

6-15-2004  Cinescape.com reports that Paramount has given Sahara a March 25, 2005 release.  (Thanks to "Ace Roberts")

6-14-2004  This past week at the New Yorker Licensing Show, Bristol Bay Productions (formerly known as Crusader Entertainment) and Paramount Pictures showed off some rather tacky posters of the upcoming film.  Ain't it Cool.com originally broke the story and what they came out of it was this, "SAHARA - I don't really see why those images are at a licensing show..."  (Thanks to "Productionx", "Dirk" and "Rickard")

     Now apparently, many fans, including myself, believe that Paramount and Bristol Bay hasn't properly marketed the film.  And if they don't start here soon, then the film could flop like "Raise the Titanic" back in August of 1980.  Let's all hope that one rumor is true; Anschutz adding many of Dr. Cussler's requests back into the script.

6-7-2004  Many rumors have been circulating that production of the film has apparently come to a halt as re-writes of the script are being done after Anschutz has added back many of Dr. Cussler's requests back into the script.  (Thanks to "Summer")

     The other rumor that was circulating was that Matthew McConaughey had returned back to the states late last month, but both were never confirmed.  (Thanks to "Captain Kirk")

     One definite confirmation that I can report is that according to the Internet Movie Database, Delroy Lindo will be playing General Kazim in the film.  (Thanks to "Abe")

5-21-2004  Due to production delays, the release date for Sahara has been pushed back to April/May 2005. Filming should have been completed at the end of March 2004, but is expected to continue till mid-June.

Anschutz wants very much to settle and move forward and has added back into the screenplay many of Clive's requests. Unfortunately the scene with Al and the train won't be included due to costs.

The lawsuit was kicked out of Federal Court and is now back in California State Court.  (Thanks to Carolena and Trevor Noble.)

5-18-2004  Several things to report today. 

First, Moviezine, ComingSoon.net and Dark Horizons revealed 4 new sneak peak photos of the production.  (Thanks to "Dirk" & "Taxman").

     Second, The Wall Street Journal had an article a few weeks ago about director Breck Eisner.  One of the comments quoted in the article stated, "When the original director of "Sahara" dropped out, Mr. Baldwin hired Mr. Eisner."  Actually that is incorrect.  It was Dr. Cussler who gave Breck Eisner the reigns.  To read the full article, click here.  (Thanks to "Pappa Jim" & "Carole")

     Third, some of the location shooting take place in a park named Ciutadella in Barcelona earlier this month.  (Thanks to "Summer")

     Fourth, Variety reported that TKO  is using motion capture to create realistic likenesses of actor Matthew McConaughey for its upcoming game "Sahara,".  (Thanks to "Dirk")

Fifth, Empire Magazine was recently in Morrocco and did a brief interview with stars Matthew McConaughey and Penelope Cruz.  "We've ridden camels, we've sailed, we've flown 1930s airplanes across the desert, a whole bunch of stuff," says a McConaughey. "I'm the action adventure guy who wrestles gators Saturday morning and dances with the queen at the ball on Saturday night.  All in a day's work!  It's magic stuff...a very fun ride."

     They also did a brief interview with Penelope about her role.  When asked about her character she stated, "I play a doctor with the World Health Organization who is working in Africa, looking for the source of a disease.  She's the only woman in the group and she's had enough of people trying to stop her, looking at her like she's crazy, but she'll end up being right about what she thinks it is."

     What appealed to her about the project?  "Well, I've never done an action adventure movie and I was always excited to do one but I wanted it to be the right project.  It has that touch that reminds me of Indiana Jones and Iused to love these movies and I haven't seen movies like that again in so many years.  They're not made anymore."  (Thanks to "Taxman").

     And the last tidbit of news which was something that I stumbled on by accident.  This came from the Welwyn & Hatfield Times back in December of last year.

"A major Hollywood film was given a helping hand by users of a Hatfield day centre. Khaki uniforms set to feature in action-packed drama Sahara were expertly stitched by ladies at the Jim McDonald Centre. Matthew McConaughey and Penelope Cruz will star in the blockbuster."
 

4-28-2004  Yesterday, the Denver Post and the Internet Movie Database reported that Crusader (now known as Bristol Bay Productions) has countered-sued Dr. Cussler and accusing him of attempting to "foment opposition to the film among his fans, and to organize a fan campaign to coerce Crusader into letting Cussler write the screenplay."  (Thanks to "Dirk",  "Taxman", "Zac", "Bruce" & Soulfound.com)

4-26-2004  An embarrassing incident occurred on the set late last week.  The San Francisco Gate reported on Friday that Matthew McConaughey has got a bad case of diarrhea.

     He has had to regularly rush off to the bathroom during filming, after contracting a bad case of the virus sweeping through the film set in Morocco.

     A source says, "He hasn't been able to keep anything down for days. A lot of the cast and crew have suffered with stomach trouble while we've been out here and Matt's just the latest.

     "It is more severe for him though as it's difficult when the leading man keeps having to run off to the washroom every few minutes."  

     Also there are reports that the reorganization of billionaire Philip Anschutz's film enterprises (Crusader Entertainment now named Bristol Bay Productions) is "very good news" for Sahara.  What does that mean?  We don't know yet, but I'm sure we'll find out soon enough.  (Thanks to "Dirk")

4-21-2004  Yesterday, Variety reported that Crusader Entertainment is no more.  Here is the full report.

HOLLYWOOD -- In a major reorganization of his film enterprises, billionaire Philip Anschutz announced the creation of the Anschutz Film Group as a holding company for his two production shingles, Walden Media and Bristol Bay Productions., the latter formerly known as Crusader Entertainment.

     David Weil, the O'Melveny & Myers lawyer who has been Anschutz's principal adviser on his film investment strategy, will lead AFG as its chief executive. Cary Granat, a co-founder of Walden, will be AFG's prexy.

     Moves had been widely anticipated (Daily Variety, Jan. 27).

     One of the principal reasons for the reorganization, Weil said, was to provide centralized services to the independent creative teams at Walden and Bristol Bay, including legal, finance, business affairs, marketing and physical production.

     But AFG, which will be based in Los Angeles, will also fit more closely within Anschutz's entertainment empire, which includes the nation's largest exhibition chain (Regal Entertainment Group) and the large live-entertainment division (Anschutz Entertainment Group) that includes Staples Center, the Kodak Theater, sports teams and live event production.

     Weil said AFG would consider possible acquisitions that could give the company distribution and marketing capabilities.
Asked if AFG was looking to self-distribute, Weil said, "We're open to any new business opportunity that makes sense. I wouldn't rule anything out at the moment."

Team assembled

     Rounding out the AFG management team are chief operating officer Jess Wittenberg, who joins after a 15 year stint as chief operating officer of Castle Rock, and chief financial officer Francesca Hickson, who ankled as chief financial officer of the Screen Actors Guild last November, citing the stresses of the job (Daily Variety, Nov. 6).

     Reorganization comes within weeks of the expiration of Walden's output deal with the Walt Disney Co., which will release the company's "Around the World in 80 Days," in June. Those two companies have also pacted to produce "The Chronicles of Narnia." Weil said Walden is considering other studios as well as reupping with Disney.

     Granat will continue to serve as CEO of Walden, with co-founder Michael Flaherty remaining prexy and heading the company's Boston office. Flaherty also will add the title of exec Vice President of AFG.

     At Bristol Bay, Lenny Kornberg, formerly a senior Vice President at Universal, will take over as exec Vice President of Bristol Bay and the shingle's creative leader.

     Kornberg replaces Howard Baldwin, former chair and CEO, and Karen Baldwin, exec Vice President of creative affairs, who have become independent producers with a deal at Bristol Bay.

     Bristol Bay, which will continue Crusader's first-look deal with Paramount, pacted with Universal to distribute "Unchain My Heart: The Ray Charles Story" starring Jamie Foxx.

     It's currently in production on "Sahara," with Matthew McConaughey top lining and Breck Eisner directing Par is planning a fourth-quarter release. Bestselling novelist Clive Cussler sued Crusader in January for allegedly changing the "Sahara" screenplay without Cussler's consent.

(Thanks to "Dirk" & "Avions")

4-17-2004  As promised, here are some photos that were taken 3 days ago on the beach in the coastal city of Tarragona in northeastern Spain.  This photos are courtesy from Colourpress.com.

4-16-2004  Several things have popped up today so here goes.

     First, the rumor that Dr. Cussler had won his lawsuit against Crusader appears to be false.  What actually happened is that the suit was "kicked out" of the Federal Court and is now in State Court.  (Thanks to "Pappa Jim") If there are any changes to this rumor, it will be posted here.  Stay Tuned.

     Second, Hellomagazine reported that shooting is now continuing near the sunny coastal city of Tarragona in northeastern Spain.  Most of the shooting will take place along the beach for some key scenes in the film.  Both Matthew and Penelope were in casual costumes; Penelope was dressed in cargo pants and a denim shirt while Matthew was in shorts and a woolly hat (no shirt gals).  The cast and crew are staying at a nearby beach hotel.  (Thanks to "Dirk")

     Third, there will be some photos posted sometime tomorrow.  Stay Tuned Folks.

4-14-2004  In what could have been some horrible news that could now be avoided (Thanks to the judge's ruling on Dr. Cussler's lawsuit, in which he ruled in the author's favor. Which is still yet un-confirmed.),  David Poland from The Hot Button.com, reported some very negative reviews about the film that is now currently in production.  He labeled it as a "Disaster" and than stated, "The cast is wrong, the tone seems deaf and the mélange of genre flavors already leaves a chalky aftertaste.  Nothing suggests to me that 2004 is going to be a banner year for Paramount. But they can get things started. The movies seem to be a little better overall. Sky Captain and Sahara could be this year's unmitigated disasters, but neither is going to leave a lasting stench."   (Thanks to Nessa)

     Now yesterday I reported that Dr. Cussler had won his lawsuit against Crusader.  What I didn't state was that this report has not YET been confirmed.  But if this is all true, than I expect that most of the footage that has been filmed will never see the light of day and some major re-shoots will take place.  What most of the media has probably already seen is that footage. 

     As for the casting that Mr. Poland had stated as "Wrong" will probably not change but who knows.  If there are any changes, it will probably be with some of the supporting characters.  What is etched in stone that will not change is Matthew McConaughey (Dirk Pitt), Steve Zahn (Al Giordino), William H. Macy (Admiral James Sandecker), and Penelope Cruz (Dr. Eva Rojas).  Stay Tuned Folks. 

4-13-2004  Our prayers have been answered!  Sahara's release will be delayed for a couple of months.  Crusader will be announcing this in the next two weeks.  Dr. Cussler has won his lawsuit against Crusader and they have been ordered by a federal court to redo the parts that do not go in conjunction with what Cussler wants. 

     Now hopefully this will include the Lincoln conspiracy and the tourists cannbol scene at the beginning of the film.  Keep your fingers crossed folks!  (Thanks to "Golferreino2002", "Tony Krome" &  "MIG 73".)

4-7-2004  The Internet Movie Database (IMDB) reports that Tom Cruise and Penelope Cruz have been spotted together in Berlin, Germany.  The report has rumors circulating that the two have rekindled their romance.  Cruise is scouting locations around the capital city for the upcoming sequel of Mission: Impossible 3 (Mr. Cruise will spend the summer in Berlin shooting the third film in the TV spin-off action franchise), while Cruz was seen shopping in the local Gucci and Louis Vuitton stores. Insiders claim the couple are sharing a luxury suite in Berlin's Four Seasons Hotel. However, Cruz's management say her trip to the city was "a spontaneous decision" and that she was due to fly back to Morocco last night to continue filming new movie Sahara.

     Rumors of Ms. Cruz off-screen romance with Co-Star Matthew McConaughey have been circulating since the initial break up.  However, neither Ms. Cruz or Mr. McConaughey have confirmed their romance.  Only a close friend of Mr. McConaughey's gave a slight hint about it by saying, "It's been a long, hot exciting shoot, if you know what I mean."

     Ms. Cruz has also been talking with close friend Halle Berry over the phone while filming on location in Morocco because she's convinced that Me. Berry would help mend her broken heart.   Cruz, at the time, was desperate to arrange a meeting with Halle.  The two have been close friends since they met on the set of the 2003 chiller Gothika. An insider said at the time that they've spoken a lot and they had planned to meet very soon.

3-31-2004  Coming Soon.com and their source Variety reports that Delroy Lindo has been added to the cast of the Paramount's Sahara, starring Matthew McConaughey and Penelope Cruz. The Crusader Entertainment adaptation of Clive Cussler's 1992 novel is filming in the U.K., Morocco and Spain. Breck Eisner is directing. Steve Zahn and William H. Macy are also in the cast. 

     Mr. Lindo's character in the film is unknown at this time.  (Thanks to "Dirk")

3-27-2004  CHUD.com received two exclusive photos from the film.  (Thanks to Ace Roberts & Taxman2001)

The India Times reported today that Penelope Cruz has found a new convenient shoulder to cry on and it's her fellow co-star, Matthew McConaughey. 

     The two first met on location in Morocco and a pal of McConaughey added, "It's been a long, hot exciting shoot, if you know what I mean."

     The romance has been going on since late January, the exact same time Cruz and Cruise split, according to Cruise's sister and publicist as well, who is a Scientologist just like her brother.

     Apparently, it was McConaughey who helped Cruz through an injury on the Moroccan set and provided solace when her father fell ill not Cruise as earlier reported. Cruise was to busy publicizing his movie The Last Samurai at that time. 

3-25-2004  Sources last Thursday (March 18) reported that two extras from the film were tragically killed in a auto accident on their way to the set for filming.  The names of the extras were not identified.

     Also, u-entertainment.com reported that William H. Macy who has been casted to play Admiral James Sandecker (and Dr. Cussler's choice to play our favorite red-headed van-dyked bearded admiral), is making preparations to fly to Morocco as soon as possible to join the team filming the production.  The two-time Oscar nominated actor seems to have a busy schedule this year.  Not including his commitment to Sahara, Mr. Macy is also working as co-producer, writer and acting in the film, "Wool Cap" which is now being filmed in Montreal.  Once the shooting is done in Montreal, than they will travel to Atlanta to finish the production.  Once that is completed, Mr. Macy will be heading to Morocco to start filming Sahara.

    Glynn Turman has been added to the cast.  His character in the film is unknown at this time.

3-12-2004  The New York Daily News had this to report:

Madrid native Penelope Cruz reacted with shock yesterday to the horror bombings in the Spanish capital.

"She's very upset about it," her rep told us yesterday. "Penelope is in Rome, promoting her movie 'Don't Move.' She's been on the phone with friends and family, making sure they're all okay. We think everyone is safe."

Cruz was briefly the (false) subject of her own health scare this week. Britain's Daily Star reported that her beau, Tom Cruise, jetted to Morocco after she collapsed on the set of "Sahara" from heat exhaustion. "Penelope had heard that someone else had collapsed," her spokesman says. "But she says, 'I'm not sick and I'm not suffering from exhaustion. And Tom did not rush to my side. He has not been there yet.'"

Cruz returns to Morocco on Saturday.  (Thanks to Dirk)
 

3-11-2004  Web India had this to report:

Hollywood superstar Tom Cruise rushed to be with his girlfriend Penelope Cruz after she collapsed while filming in Morocco.
Cruz is suffering from exhaustion from the intense desert heat and violent sandstorms on the set of new movie Sahara. Her fears for her father Eduardo, who is recovering from a heart attack, are also thought to have taken their toll on the actress.
Cruise was so concerned about his belle that he jetted straight to the shoot location. He has already visited the set once during the grueling shoot, to try and help Cruz relax.
"The conditions on set are incredibly tough and can bring even the sturdiest of people to their knees. Penelope has been a total professional, but has found it tough going because of the extreme conditions and her worry about her sick father," a source was quoted by imdb.com, as saying.
The actress, who has now decided to take a break from shooting, is expected to make the most of it, by resting and visiting her family in Madrid, Spain.  (Thanks to Dirk & Jack Underwood)

3-2-2004  Rainn Wilson has joined the cast of the feature "Sahara" for director Breck Eisner.  Wilson will play the team's tech expert. Wilson recently landed one of the leads in NBC's comedy pilot "The Office," based on the acclaimed BBC series. He will next be seen on HBO's "Six Feet Under," where he will reprise his role as the mortuary intern, and in Mario Van Peebles' upcoming "Baadasssss!"   (Thanks to Vanessa)

2-27-2004 *UPDATE*  I'm surprised that I didn't find this sooner or that anyone didn't report this to me.  Lenin James has been tagged to play General Kazim.  This was reported  by Times Online on February 16.

     Also, the production team in Morocco are all fine from the earthquake that hit Morocco early Tuesday morning.  But they are having a harder time with the consistent sand storms.  (Thanks to Vanessa and Rana)

2-27-2004  Variety had this to report today:  (Thanks to Dirk)

FROM THE "SAHARA" TROUPE, filming in ErFoud, Morocco, 30 miles from Algeria, producer Mace Neufeld reports the 6.5 earthquake early Tuesday, in which more than 560 people reportedly were killed, was felt by the pic's company of 600-plus. "The small children were frightened," he reported. But filming goes on the "biggest indie-financed pic" ($100 million-plus). It's based on Clive Cussler's book, expected to become a franchise for Par-Crusader. Pic continues on to Spain and London, with Breck Eisner directing Matthew McConaughey, Penelope Cruz, William H. Macy and Lambert Wilson. Joining Neufeld on location as an associate is line producer Diane Conn. They are engaged to wed late this year ...

     Apparently, the rumor about William H. Macy casted as Sandecker turned out to be true.  The other actor tagged for the film, Lambert Wilson, a French born actor, might have landed the role as the French billionaire Yves Massarde.  But that is only my opinion until it is confirmed.

2-24-2004  An un-confirmed report has William H. Macy tagged to play Admiral Sandecker.  (Thanks to JackChase007 & Quicksilver69)

2-17-2004  This came across my desk last week but I had to wait to publish it because I changed to a new server again because of technical and customer service issues with my previous service.  I hope this is the last time that I have to do this.  I do apologize.

     First, People magazine reported in their February 16 issue that Penelope Cruz is getting ready to shoot for her role as Eva Rojas in her upcoming film, "Sahara".  There was also a small picture of her on a camel.

     Also, businesswire.com reported last week that TKO Software announced an agreement for the exclusive rights for developing a PC and console game based on the film.

     (Thanks to "MissClaudia" & Jack Underwood)

2-5-2004  Some sad news came across my desk a few days ago when I received an e-mail that Carole Bartholomeaux has resigned as Dr. Cussler's publicist.  Here is the official press release:

     Dr. Cussler is now being represented by Pitch Productions which is co-owned by his daughter, Dayna Cussler. (Thanks to Chicago Kevin, Jim C & J.Chase)

     On a personal note, I would like to thank Carole for all of her support and gratitude over the past 18 months as I reported to you the news for this production.  I would also like to thank her for supporting my friends, ED and Pat, while they are stationed overseas in Iraq.

1-29-2004  Just when you think everything is getting better with the screenplay, it turns out that the script was NOT approved by Dr. Cussler.  That report has been confirmed by Dr. Cussler's publicist, Carole Bartholomeaux.  The script apparently isn't staying faithful to the novel as promised by Crusader when the deal was struck back in May of 2001.

     Crusader has also updated the synopsis about the film on their website.

SHOW YOUR SUPPPORT AND SIGN THE PETITION!

1-28-2004  Dark Horizons just reported that a new draft, written by Josh Friedman, will be used for filming.  This new draft is a total rewrite and is considered AMAZING.  It also seem to have "cleared up" all the other previous drafts written.  This new script has created a solid action-adventure film with more humor and tons of peril.  Filming begins sometime next month.  (Thanks to Jack Chase007)

     No confirmation with Dr. Cussler's people on whether or not this will resolve his lawsuit against Crusader or if this new draft is faithful to his novel.

1-28-2004  Rumors about Morgan Freeman's involvement with Sahara seemed to have been half truth.  Mr. Freeman is a huge fan of Dr. Cussler's work and was interested in Inca Gold. 

     Until it is confirmed, it will be considered a rumor.

1-27-2004  Yesterday, a Moroccan Newspaper, Lematin, reported that about 90% of the film will be filmed in Morocco which begins its principle photography in late Feb/early March.  But what really catches your eye is who might be starring in the film; Morgan Freeman.  Below is the article translated into English.  (Thanks to "Ish")

For a total budget of 180 million dollars: the American film "the Sahara" turned to Morocco

Could this building double as Massarde's Fort Foureau?

After the great cinematographic production "Alexandre the Large one", Morocco continues to attract the international producers because of the richness of his landscapes. Adapted of an American best-seller of the same name, "the Sahara" is a spectacular which Paramount will turn very soon in the town of Erfoud, Azemmour, El Jadida, Al Haouz and Oujda.

Following the tragic events of May 16, 2003, the turning of this feature film was going to be delocalized towards Tunisia or South Africa But, thanks to the active implication of the persons in charge, it will not be it.
According to specialists', this turning will have beneficial repercussions on the selected areas and will thus offer thousands of working hours for the Moroccan technicians, observers and craftsmen.

On the whole, 750 people, technicians and actors, and about 500 observers and craftsmen will take share there. As for the total cost of this production, it would rise at 180 million American dollars. Except 10 days of turning in Spain and 5 days in England, more than 90% of the production will be realized in Morocco (15 weeks of turning including 12 to 14 days with Azemmour and El Jadida).

With regard to turning with Doukkla, envisaged at the end of February at the beginning of March 2004, the selected sites are Dar Zitoune, the Kasbah, Oued Oum-Rbia, in Azemmour and the Spanish church of the Portuguese city and Mouilha with El Jadida.

The success of such company thus requires the adhesion of the whole of the population of the selected sites so that Morocco remains a gravitational pole for the cinematographic productions and that it can take up the challenge in a context where the competition of the emergent countries, especially those of the East, fact rage.

For the moment, the preparations go good train thanks to the abnegation of several personalities of which the manager of the production on the area of Doukkala, the person in charge for the production for all Morocco and the representative of the Paramount company, which by its eagerness and its love for the Kingdom, knew to convince the persons in charge for Paramount to keep turning in our country.

This large film of action and adventure will be carried out by Break Eismeir.
As for the principal roles, they will be played by Mattew Mc Conaughey, Peneloppe Cruz, Morgan Freeman and Steve Zhan.

History

In 1996, in Egypt, seeking a treasure on the Nile, Dirk Pit (Matthew McConaughey) an attempted murder prevents on a young scientist in the United Nations, Eva Rojas (Penelope Cruz) studied a disease which involves thousands of Africans in the madness, the cannibalism and death.

The suspectée cause of the epidemic which makes rage is a vast pollution without precedent and threat to extinguish any life in the seas of the whole world. To safeguard planet of such a catastrophe, Pitt and its team make an iron arm between a fatal industrialist and a sanguinary tyrant.

It is in the sand of the Sahara that Pitt will raise enigmas and will find answers like slaves in a gold mine, a civil war, the assassination of Abraham Lincoln and the disappearance of Kitty Manock, pionnière of British aviation.

1-26-2004  I really don't anything to report with the production but I did find something that I thought needed to be shared by everyone;

Ten Top Reasons to Make Sahara Clive's Way!

#10: To hear Massarde say, "Sounds like the plot for a second-rate motion picture." (page 239)

#9: We need to see how in the world Pitt can hide a Doxa Sub300T Professional in his shoe!

#8: Sahara has some of the best Pitt/Giordino dialog of all the books and they're together from start to finish. When asked to "identify yourselves!" McConaughy and Zahn will say, "I'm Rocky and this is..." "Bullwinkle."

#7: Imagine the Calliope (before flying the Jolly Roger!) attempting to be boarded by Matabu with his two gunboats and attack helicopter. Then Giordino asking Rudi Gunn what Pitt just said in French. The audience will roar when Gunn says, "I think he just ordered a bottle of California wine."

#6: Eva & Dirk disappearing into an empty storeroom at the waste facility. Eva says, "I'll just close my eyes and imagine I'm with my handsome lover in the most luxurious suite in the finest hotel in San Francisco." As the door's lock clicks, we hear Dirk say, "Lady, you've got one fantastic imagination."

#5: We can buy action figures of Dirk, Al, Rudy, St. Julien, the Caliope, the "Kitty Mannock" land yacht, etc.

#4: The Avions Voisin on the big screen, nothing more to say!

#3: Clive Cussler needs to play "The Kid." He needs to say the line, "Lincoln was on board the Texas when she left Richmond." When Giordino asks the Kid's real name, the audience will cheer when he says, "It's Clive Cussler."

#2: The ending with a wide, sweeping long shot of the Lincoln Memorial for the service of Lincoln's proper burial.

...and the #1 reason to make Sahara Clive's way:

Because that's the only way it should be made, to honor the fans, to honor Cussler, and it's the only way to make the movie profit and continue on as a series!

Okay, now feel free to join in with another thousand reasons why certain scenes direct from the book (CC's work!) would make the film a four star release to break all records!

     After I decided to post this, there was another one added to make it 11 reasons; and here's the eleventh;

#11: When Dirk reveals the true nature of his reasoning for releasing Massarde, the audience will all collectively say, "Ohhhhhhh...ewwwwwww...yeahhhhhhhhhhH!" As if boiling alive in the desert isn't bad enough...boy was that a great ending!
 

     SHOW YOUR SUPPPORT AND SIGN THE PETITION!

1-22-2004  The Internet Movie Database (IMDB) had a short article yesterday about Penelope Cruz.  It seems her Hollywood dream is hinged on the success of her upcoming film, Sahara.  Her previous films have failed to catapult her to the top of the acting 'A' list.  Because she is dating Tom Cruise, she is said to be deeply disappointed that her films (Captain Corelli's Mandolin & Vanilla Sky) haven't elevated her to the same status as Tom Cruise's ex-wife Nicole Kidman.  She is determined to capture the public imagination as she has in her native country of Spain.  A close source to Ms. Cruz says,

*EDITOR'S NOTE*  Penelope Cruz was not Dr. Cussler's choice to portray Eva Rojas.  It was speculated that Salma Hayek was originally (and I believe Dr. Cussler's choice too.) thought to get the part.  But when Spain was chosen as one of the exterior locations for the film, one of the stipulations for Spain to be considered as a shooting location for a Hollywood motion picture is to have an actor/actress who is native to Spain.  This was probably a maneuver from Crusader to override Dr. Cussler's casting approval.  Much like what they're doing with their choice in script.

1-21-2004  It has been reported that Matthew McConaughey arrived in Africa on Monday (January 19) to start filming principle photography for Sahara.  No word or comments from Matthew or his production company, J.K. Livin, about the lawsuit against Crusader.

1-19-2004  The buzz around the internet over Dr. Cussler's lawsuit against Crusader Entertainment over the weekend has been a frenzy of anger and resentment towards the production company for the lack of respect given to our beloved author by his beloved fans, including yours truly. 

After 8 Sahara scripts were thrown "in the toilet", Crusader said "screw you" and went ahead filming with an unapproved screenplay.

So far 2 of the opening scenes have been filmed, one being the "Texas" ironclad escaping down river with Abraham Lincoln, and the other being Kitty Mannock's plane crashing in the Sahara desert. Kitty of course being played by Clive's daughter, Dayna.

At this point, the scenes in the can, are a reportedly fairly accurate translation of Clive's book, but from there it turns to crap.

The unapproved script has scenes like Dirk firing a cannonball from the ironclad, "Texas" into one of Kazim's helicopters, and Al meeting up with the UN tactical team in a whorehouse complete with belly dancers and frontal nudity.

It's no wonder Clive has requested his name be removed as Executive Director, will not act in the movie and will not visit the set.

Its not certain whether litigation will prevent the movie from being produced, but its obvious that's what he wants.

     Listen to the folks who are and will be willing to go see this movie if it's done as hoped.

     Stay Tuned folks because this will not go away lightly anytime soon.  If you hear anything folks, please let me know.

1-16-2004  In a turn of events, Variety reports that Dr. Cussler has taken Crusader Entertainment to court over script approval rights.

     The contract which was agreed on back in May of 2001, stipulated that Crusader had the rights to all of Dr. Cussler's novels for 3 years.  Crusader also signed a three year first-look deal with Paramount in January of 2001 for production financing and domestic distribution.  They also agreed with Summit Entertainment for international distribution.  Now since the 3 years is about up, Crusader, who doesn't want to lose the Dirk Pitt franchise and the financing from Paramount and Summit, has to contractually start filming or lose the entire deal.  So they start filming the second unit shoots, keeping Dr. Cussler locked into his contract.  Principle photography will not take place until the a script is approved by Dr. Cussler.  And that won't happen until Crusader and Paramount agrees to involve him in the script writing which won't probably happen because both companies want to do it their way.   Help support Dr. Cussler!