Ethan Hawke, 54, is at a pivotal stage in his career, feeling no pressure to prove anything further. He reflects on his experiences, including four Oscar nominations without wins, and recalls advice from Denzel Washington. Hawke shares that Denzel comforted him during a past loss, suggesting that losing can sometimes hold greater meaning. Hawke now embraces this wisdom as he delivers a compelling performance in the upcoming film “Blue Moon.”
Ethan Hawke’s New Role in Blue Moon
In “Blue Moon,” directed by Richard Linklater, Hawke portrays the legendary songwriter Lorenz Hart. The film explores Hart’s emotional turmoil on the night of the premiere of “Oklahoma!” This biographical dramedy has gained significant buzz in this awards season, highlighting Hawke’s dedication and emotional depth in the role.
A Long-Awaited Collaboration
This project, 12 years in the making, showcases Hawke’s and Linklater’s deep professional relationship. Due to Hawke’s need to age into the character, Linklater patiently revised the script during periodic readings over the years. The role of Hart demanded an actor who could express the weariness and disappointment accompanying the songwriter’s life.
“Larry Hart would be dead within months of that premiere,” Hawke states, revealing the depth of his character’s emotional landscape. This aspect of the role sparked Hawke’s interest, aligning with his evolving approach to acting.
Hawke’s Perspective on Legacy
As discussions about legacy arise, Hawke remains cautious. He emphasizes that fixating on legacy can lead to vanity or bitterness. Reflecting on his career, he admits to feeling grateful for ongoing opportunities to act, noting that the true reward lies in the enduring impact of his work rather than accolades.
The Importance of Collaboration
Alongside Hawke, Andrew Scott plays Richard Rodgers in “Blue Moon.” Their collaboration involved intense preparation, including a demanding seven-page scene that captured significant emotional conflict in their characters’ friendship. Hawke recalled the day he learned of Scott’s 19 Emmy nominations, noting the latter’s modesty and dedication to their craft.
The Role of Distributors in Adult Cinema
“Blue Moon” is released by Sony Pictures Classics, a company known for supporting mid-budget films. Hawke praises their commitment to film artistry, appreciating how they challenge the current trends in the movie industry. He believes that success should be measured by the legacy of the work rather than immediate financial returns.
Reflections on the Oscars
Looking back, Hawke remembers his first Oscar nomination for “Training Day” in 2002, a moment that was surreal and transformative. He recalls Denzel Washington’s advice to see the bigger picture in his career, helping him process both wins and losses over the years.
The Future of the Before Films
With 10 years since “Before Midnight,” fans wonder if there will be more entries in the “Before” series. Hawke hints that while the trilogy feels complete, they could explore new stories in the future. He acknowledges the uniqueness of this creative collaboration between himself, Julie Delpy, and Linklater, emphasizing their synchronicity in vision.
Concerns About AI in Art
Hawke expresses concerns regarding the rise of AI in creative fields. He believes this trend poses an existential threat, compromising the human elements essential to storytelling and art. He stresses the importance of genuine emotional connection in art, contrasting it with the cold efficiency of artificial productions.
Through his insights in “Blue Moon,” Hawke not only showcases his talent but also encourages audiences to reflect on artistry, collaboration, and the significance of emotional authenticity in film.
