February 11, 2002
Anne Rice didn't think much of Tom Cruise's interpretation of her work in "Interview With The Vampire," but she's being a lot more generous toward the late Aaliyah.

The New York Post says Rice recently screened the forthcoming "Queen Of The Damned" in her hometown of New Orleans, and gave the thumbs up to Aaliyah's portrayal of the 6,000-year-old vampire Akasha.

Aaliyah had nearly completed work on the film when she died in a plane crash last August in the Bahamas.

"Fans of Aaliyah, who died so tragically in a plane crash, will probably be more than delighted with her remarkable performance," Rice said in a recorded message sent out to fans, calling Aaliyah "a gifted singer and actress."

"I can tell you that the movie is an energetic and innovative rendition of 'The Vampire Chronicles,' featuring fine performances and a magnificent look. I think my younger readers very well might love the movie and flock to see it."

When Cruise was first cast in "Interview With The Vampire," Rice had been critical that the all-American actor had been selected to portray the European vampire Lestat, although she later said she approved of Cruise's work on screen.