Cannes: Bennett Miller emotional over Hoffman

CANNES, France — Director Bennett Miller, who directed Philip Seymour Hoffman in the 2005 film Capote, became emotional discussing the actor's dedication during a Cannes Film Festival news conference on Monday.

Bennett was asked to describe how his actors, like Hoffman in 2005's Capote, are able to completely disappear into their characters. The director unveiled Foxcatcher at the current festival to much critical praise for Steve Carell's immersed performance as multimillionaire and convicted murderer John du Pont.

Bennett tried to get out of speaking about Hoffman, who died in February.

"I'm avoiding the question ... It makes me emotional," said Bennett. pausing with his voice trembling. "To work with actors ... who are willing ... all of these guys, and of course Phil (Hoffman) ... to have faith in me. You have to be grateful for the rest of your life."

Journalists in the room burst into applause at the sympathetic sentiments. Hoffman went on to win the Academy Award for his role as Truman Capote in the Miller film.

Likewise, there has been applause after the worldwide premiere screening of Foxcatcher, which focuses on du Pont's relationship with wrestlers Mark Schultz (Channing Tatum) and his brother David Schultz (Mark Ruffalo).

Miller was greeted to robust applause from journalists as he entered the news conference.