Surprisingly the publication Miller McCue, which is usually as dry as its name, caught Movefone's wandering eye (we really need corrective lenses). They conducted a mathematical analysis on which actors on average score highest with critics.While we don't understand the formula (we were always too busy rewinding VHS tapes to do our statistics homework), we're impressed by the results. Child star-turned-fringe-hipster/movie-icon Elijah Wood ended up on top, beating beloved Academy stalwarts Philip Seymour Hoffman, Clint Eastwood, and Tom Hanks (meanwhile, Freddie Prinze Jr., star of 'Wing Commander,' finished at the bottom).
Some may be surprised, but around the office "Elijah Wood" is synonymous with "Super-Rad." For example, "'The Road' looks like it could be Elijah Wood!" Doubters need only to read further.
1. He Works Smart
Unfortunately, child stars are too often falling stars. They're exciting to watch until quickly burning out. Wood has not only avoided the Haim/Feldman curse, he sets the example of how actors should choose projects. After the first 'Lord of the Rings,' Hollywood threw leading roles at him. Instead he chose strong ensembles like 'Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind,' 'Bobby,' and 'Sin City' (as a cannibal!); the offbeat independent films 'Everything Is Illuminated' and 'Green Street Hooligans;' and voiceover work with 'Happy Feet' and '9.' He follows Hollywood's golden rule: work a lot without breaking a sweat.
2. He's More Hip Than Ironic T-shirts
Rather than pump whichever Myspace band makes him look hip at the moment, Wood's iTunes Playlist contains everything from Gang of Four to The Roches to The Beach Boys to Gogol Bordello, and Aphex Twin. He owns his own record label, Simian Records. He directed an Apples in Stereo music video. He's in the upcoming music documentary 'The Heart is a Drum Machine.' He DJs backyard parties SXSW. Every indie band and trendy celebrities is scrabbling to appear on 'Yo Gabba Gabba!' now, but Wood appeared on the very first show. He was down with Brobee way before you. And on top of all that, he's going to play Iggy Pop in the upcoming biopic, 'The Passenger'!
3. He is Nice
'Autograph Collector' magazine releases a list of best and worst Hollywood signers each year. Wood made the list in 2006 and is happy to sign autographs, even though he's regularly mistaken for Daniel Radcliffe and Tobey Maguire. He's active with multiple charities benefiting children in need and we've even heard him do an impromptu podcast interview because someone handed him a phone in a bar.
4. He is Danger
While it's odd enough that Ozzy's whiny son Jack has a reality show called 'Adrenaline Junkie,' Wood made it cool by appearing on the show to become the first person ever to cross the Victoria Falls on ropes. Celebrities like Keanu Reeves can stick to their pro/am auto racing. Wood is setting world records.
5. He Keeps It Classy
Unlike most young stars, Wood keeps out of tabloids. He doesn't flaunt his personal life in front of TMZ cameras and DUI mugshots of him with bags under his eyes won't appear. With so much good press, groupies must occasionally beat down his short front door to party with Frodo. However, we don't know if he partakes, which is classic movie star -- just like people never knew Rock Hudson was gay.
Add your comments