Standing tall as one of the most recognizable faces in Hollywood, Henry Cavill boasts a fandom far outpacing several other A-listers. The once fan-favorite Superman and Geralt of Rivia now makes it through his days preparing for his next big array of blockbuster stints. However, long before his big breakthrough in Man of Steel, also starring Russell Crowe, the actor had a history of a fateful tryst with his on-screen father. In an interesting dance of destiny, the duo crossed paths several times, yet spoke ever so less, and amid all of this came a movie that remains The Witcher actor’s favorite to date.

For someone who had now eked out a sizeable chunk of his career starring in Zack Snyder’s and Netflix’s projects, it is a shame that none of the British actor’s own movies had made the cut.

Henry Cavill and Russell Crowe go way back than Man of Steel until the former’s favorite movie

In 2001, Henry Cavill marked his acting debut in the 2001 film Laguna. However, his acting roots strayed even further back when he took the job as an extra for several movies. At 16 years of age, the Channel Islands resident played as a background rugby player for Russell Crowe’s Proof Of Life. Speaking to GQ Magazine in June 2013, the Justice League actor revealed that he could hardly resist admiring Crowe. Moreover, the latter’s Gladiator found its spot as Henry Cavill’s favorite movie.

Centered around the story of Maximus Decimus Meridius, the story speaks of his avenge and rise through the ranks to becoming king. On that fateful day of playing an extra, Cavill would finally ask the then-36-year-old actor how to build his own, now spectacularly fortunate, career. The answer would come 11 years later with Russell Crowe not only playing Henry Cavill’s father in Man of Steel, but the duo sharing the same Los Angeles gym and trainer.

Interestingly, that eventful day when Cavill was still 16, would lay the stone for him to opt to not speak to Crowe that often.

Men of few words yet sheer talent

Amid a drizzle and the muddy field, Henry Cavill rose as the only extra with the courage enough to ask him about the long road of showbiz. “But if you want to go for it, then really go for it. Commit.” The one-line advice from the senior would pave the groundwork for the young aspirant to finally star as the lead in Man of Steel. However, as soon as the other boys found the two interacting, they swarmed Crowe for autographs.

Taking a heads-up, Cavill shielded Crowe as he evaded the flood. Days later, as a gift for not asking for an autograph, the junior received Jersey sweets, a jar of Vegemite, a CD, and a picture of Crowe in Gladiator, with a signed message. Sticking to that cue, eleven years later, when they met again, all they ever shared was a handshake.

What are your reactions to Henry Cavill revealing the interesting backstory behind his favorite movie? Let us know in the comments below.