(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Aaron Eckhart has joked that he paid money to star in his new movie Rabbit Hole.

Aaron plays the partner of Nicole Kidmans character in the drama, which is based on a play by David Lindsay-Abaire and tells the story of a couple whose life turns upside down when their young son dies in a tragic accident.

The movie was directed by John Cameron Mitchell and had to be made on a fairly low budget, which didnt worry Aaron because he was so enthusiastic about the project.

I paid to be on the film thats what it was, laughed the star in an interview with Flicks and Bits.

Nicole spoke highly of her co-star, arguing that it was his presence which attracted investors into the movie. The actress praised Aaron for being so dedicated to the project, and said all the movies stars were involved due to artistic loyalty rather than a desire to earn cash.

There wasnt any money to offer on this film, there was nothing other than the material and the promise of an environment where he would be able to explore and hopefully feel very safe. He just jumped in and was so committed, without him we wouldnt have been able to make the film, she explained. Actually when we spoke to John [director John Cameron Mitchell] we still didnt have the money and then when we got Aaron we got the money. Hes the money, joked Nicole. (C) Cover Media