While the thriller Whiteout had its US premiere the evening of September 9th at Mann’s Village Theatre in Westwood with the cast in attendance, including Alex O’Loughlin, a press screening took place simultaneously in Hollywood.

Although the first reviews published are not favorable, Alex O’Loughlin fans can certainly be proud of his performance.

Despite a promising plot, Whiteout‘s comic book origin is unfortunately apparent in the clumsy dialogue in some scenes, which regrettably provoked unintentional laughter from the audience during key dramatic moments.

None involve Russell Haden, the role portrayed by Alex.

Although the acting often disappointed, Alex is a clear exception. He proves once again that he seemingly slips effortlessly into the skin of his character; Russell Haden is a believable pesky pilot whose rowdy antics are amusing even when he is being a nuisance.

Alex also has little trouble in showing a darker side to Russell that makes him a credible “baddie”.

Producer David Gambino calls Alex “a real find, such a natural, charismatic actor.”

Information for fans:

• Alex’s role calls for an Aussie accent;
• Russell Haden and his pals perform a naked sprint in Alex’s first scene; according to the dialogue he is “the second out the door”;
• The interrogation scene that was viewable prior to the release of the movie was edited; it is not only longer but also contains stronger language;
• Some scenes are not suitable for the squeamish;
• Alex has more screen time than you may expect.

Alex quotes about the movie:

[Russell] is a pretty audacious personality. He has a lot of energy and confidence, and is a bit of  a smart ass. He does okay with the ladies, although not with Carrie, and rather than be discouraged by that unfortunate fact, he just tries harder and more shamelessly every chance he gets.

The role called for a cheeky Aussie pilot. I thought, “I don’t know how to fly, but I’m a cheeky Aussie”, so I figured I could handle it.

[The faux snow is] starch and salt, so you felt like you’d been rolling around in pizza dough all day.

Whiteout opens in theaters in the US on Friday, September 11th.

The first images from various sources taken at the premiere are available in the gallery.

[tags]alex o’loughlin, alex o’lachlan, whiteout, russell haden[/tags]