8 OCTOBER 2004

In his new movie Jude Law proves he's every inch the silver screen heart-throb. The British actor plays the legendary Errol Flynn in Martin Scorcese's latest blockbuster. And as these newly released publicity shots show, the 31-year-old has no difficulty capturing the style and charisma the iconic performer was famous for.

The Aviator, which tells the story of renowned director Howard Hughes, sees him starring alongside a roll-call of Hollywood's hottest properties. Cate Blanchett takes on the role of Katherine Hepburn, while Kate Beckinsale plays siren Ava Gardner.

Box office favourite Leonardo DiCaprio has meanwhile been cast in the title role. With Howard Hughes remaining a celebrated figure in modern American history, it is sure to be one of the most scrutinsed performances of his career.

From his beginnings as the son of a Texan inventor, Howard became a mover and shaker in Hollywood's Golden Age, while also romancing a series of its leading ladies. In his later years, however, the entrepreneur became famous for his phobias and reclusiveness.

"He was one of the most iconic men the country has ever seen, but he had a strong need for privacy," explained Leo. "He was a dreamer and a visionary. Hughes was a force in Hollywood, in aviation, in about everything he did."