Unfortunately Javier Bardem is not present at the Cannes Film Festival to promote “Vicky Cristina Barcelona.” I would guess this is because of the reported exhaustion, he probably wants to take time off from the spotlight, which I respect. We now know that Javier’s character is called Juan Antonio. You can view a video clip of the movie here.

Variety offers some quotes of the film and Javier’s performance:

“Vicky Cristina Barcelona” is a sexy, funny divertissement that passes as enjoyably as an idle summer’s afternoon in the titular Spanish city. With Javier Barden starring as a bohemian artist involved variously with Scarlett Johansson, Penelope Cruz and Rebecca Hall, pic offers potent romantic fantasy elements for men and women and a cast that should produce the best commercial returns for a Woody Allen film since “Match Point.”

Even if the film provides a strictly tourist’s view of the city (a perspective justified by the scenario, in fact), and one just as upscale and heedless of money as ever for Allen, “VCB” is by several degrees more hot-blooded than his usual norm, thanks especially due to the palpable chemistry of Bardem and Cruz in the second half.

Looking macho but speaking mostly in a tender, sincere way to his women, Bardem is a thoroughly convincing and likable ladies’ man.