Travolta talks 'Pelham' on Web site

OCALA, Fla., June 8 (UPI) -- U.S. actor John Travolta, who has been mourning the death of his 16-year-old son since January, says he is proud of his latest film "The Taking of Pelham 123."

Travolta hasn't been attending press events to publicize his New York-set thriller, co-starring Denzel Washington, James Gandolfini, Luis Guzman and John Turturro. Directed by Tony Scott, the movie is set for release in U.S. theaters Friday.

In lieu of giving interviews and making red-carpet appearances to promote "Pelham," Travolta has posted a letter to his fans on his Web site praising the feature and expressing his gratitude to the filmmakers, his fellow actors and Sony Pictures for their support as he and his family continue to grieve for Jett Travolta, who died early this year of a seizure disorder.

"Tony gave me the freedom to define, and then to become, the ultimate evil mastermind," Travolta said of his role in "Pelham." "This role as an actor gave me the chance to dispense with all moral and ethical limitations, and explore just how bad this character could really be. I believe you will like the result.

"Tony, Denzel, Luis, John, James and Sony Pictures stepped up without hesitation to help promote this wonderful film, and their unselfish efforts have allowed my family the additional time to reconcile our loss," Travolta added. "I am very proud of the efforts we have all made in making this movie, and I want each and every one of you to enjoy it. ... Thank you all from the bottom of my heart. With Love, John."