While doing the publicity rounds for Deception, Hugh Jackman talked a bit about X-Men Origins: Wolverine to The Herald Sun, specifically praising his young costar, Kodi Smit-McPhee, and his director, Gavin Hood. (The subject of his muttonchops comes up too -- apparently, they aren't popular in his private life. And here I was hoping Jackman could bring them into fashion.)

That talk of McPhee being replaced with Troye Sivan must have been false, or we're seeing two young Logans which is entirely probable. Jackman is full of praise for the young actor he handpicked to play his younger self. "He's one of those kids who's fearless. I hope he doesn't read this article because yes, there is pressure on him because of who he's playing and the expectations of fans. I was lucky to be completely ignorant of fans' expectations and the whole world before X-Men came out. I just hope he doesn't read too much or go on the internet because he naturally has the goods I know the fans will love."


Jackson also sang the praises of Hood -- who, I think, is the biggest hope this movie has. "I'm used to these movies now. They're big and there's a lot involved, a lot at stake, so it's always high pressure. But Gavin Hood, our director, is a real force. He's an Oscar-winning director (for Tsotsi) and he's used to working under different kinds of pressure and stresses."

Two new actors have also been added to the cast -- both female, and both reported via Australian newspapers. Asher Keddie and Tahyna Tozzi are now part of the ever-growing roster, but there's no word on who they are playing. Both are fresh off the Australian film Beautiful, which also starred Jackman's wife, Deborra-Lee Furness. The only clues are that Keddie has been doing grueling night shoots, and Tozzi is playing a mutant. I pray neither one of them are playing Angel Salvadore -- no one needs to see a puking fly girl. Of course, they've reportedly changed Beak Barnell so maybe they'll glam Angel up too.

[via SuperheroHype.com and Jackman's Landing]