Taking it to Heart

While enjoying the limelight of awards' season, Michael Fassbender also took time to show that he's a caring person, too.  

He was part of a commercial for Ballygowan Pink bottled mineral water, which a supporter of the Marie Keaton foundation for breast cancer awareness.

Here's the commercial with John Rhys Myers, Matt Dillion and Michael Fassbender:



The next day, Michael spent a day at the Gaiety School of Acting, talking to students and answering questions.

Michael Fassbender, best known for his recent role in ''Inglorious Basterds'' visited the Gaiety School of Acting today in a memorable day for its students. Watched by all 1st and 2nd year students, Michael discussed the trials and tribulations of his career including his rise to fame. Michael was first taught by GSA tutor Donal Courtney and from there he went on to the Drama Centre in London. He first played the part of Burton 'Pat' Christenson in Tom Hanks and Steven Spieldberg's award winning Band Of Brothers. After a number of television roles, Michael then went on to star in some big productions, most notably 300, where he featured alongside Gerard Butler, Eden Lake and Hunger.

Michael also talked of his recent role in Hunger, a film detailing the last six weeks of the life of the Irish republican hunger striker Bobby Sands. The part required Michael to drop his weight to a dangerous 58kgs.

His life story was followed up by questions and answers from students of the GSA. After receiving a gracious round of applause, GSA director Patrick Sutton thanked Mr Fassbender for his visit and wished him the best in his future endeavours.

Source

For more information about the school and to see pictures of the class, visit Gaiety School of Acting site or their Facebook page.  It was very nice of Michael to take time out of a busy schedule and visit with students and his former acting instructor.  Some of us are still waiting for a Mr. Hanks to come back to his former community college in CA.

This isn't the first time Michael has been invited to talk at about his work at higher education classes or festivals.  But there's something different when you share your work with those whose dreams are still alive in doing the same thing you are already doing.

And since we are talking about giving, we're going to put another reminder for MFO's Charity Fundraiser and Birthday Messages.  Luckily for you, the date has been extend, so you can get your taxes back and send in a donation to help children with cancer through Barretstown.  You can also catch up on your movie collection by buying movies through Hexperience's Amazon store, where proceeds will go to Barretstown.  Thanks to Hexperience and Anita for offering her site's services.

Also, send a note of encouragement, or congratulate Michael for his awards, or tell him what you think about his work, by sending messages for his birthday.  Sign into MFO for information. 

Lastly, a beautiful, autographed "300" poster is being auctioned on ebay, which all funds will be going to Barretstown.  Autographs include Gerard Butler, Michael Fassbender, David Wenham, Lena Heady, Rodrigo Santoro, and others.  Click here to post your bid.

One thing to remember about all these charity fundraisers; you may never know when you might need the charity of others, or become dependent on the open heart and hands of others, especially in this day and age.  Give now, whatever it may be. 

Check out MFO's new look, too.

Originally written 2/23/10