Jim Carrey Honors The Mask Director Chuck Russell: “A Privilege to Have Worked With Him”

Jim Carrey offers tribute to his 'The Mask' director Chuck Russell, says "I consider it a privilege..."

Los Angeles, July 25

In a statement, Carrey remembered working with the late filmmaker, reflecting on his experience during shooting.

"I consider it a privilege to have worked with Chuck Russell, who during the shooting of The Mask, created an ebullient, childlike atmosphere of wonder and camaraderie on his set. The entire cast and crew were touched and inspired by his playfulness," he said, as quoted by Deadline.

Describing 'The Mask' as one of the "jewels of my creative life", the actor added, "Every one of us has been many years blessed by that buoyant and timeless moment. I consider The Mask one of the jewels of my creative life. Thank you, Chuck."

While 'The Mask' is counted as one of the career peaks alongside 'Ace Ventura: Pet Detective' and 'Dumb and Dumber', all of which were released in 1994, the film also marked the screen debut of Cameron Diaz.

It was a box office hit, also earning an Oscar nomination for the visual effects by George Lucas' Industrial Light and Magic.

'The Mask' follows Carrey as a meek bank teller who discovers that an enchanted mask can transform him into a green-faced trickster superhero with the ability to alter himself and his surroundings with cartoon-like ease.

Russell died on July 22; his wife, actress Ania Zeyne, confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter.

"He was such a wonderful guy. He meant everything to me," Zeyne said.

The cause of death has not been disclosed.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Russell, born Charles Raymond Russell, was found unresponsive at his home in San Diego by Zeyne.

TMZ confirmed that fire department personnel responded to a medical emergency involving an unconscious male at Russell's residence on July 23 but were unable to revive him.

— ANI