The chapter discussed quite a few movies with big name actors that I don’t recall ever seeing. Actually I don’t even recall anything about some of the movies mentioned, I guess that this might have to do with them not doing well. It is interesting how actors feel pressure to prove them selves in different roles even make them to take risky roles on films not expected to do well. It seems that actors also seem them selves at political activists taking on film projects not expected to do well only to further their political views. I also had not considered something brought out in the text, that actors are the fore front of American Cinema, meaning that it is not always so in other cultures and their directing styles. The text also mentions that the ability to fill multiple roles is considered a way to show you’re talented as well as to have lasting popularity.
I chose to watch the Aviator with Leonardo Dicapprio. It was from what I understand it is a fairly accurate Hollywood portrayal of the life of Howard Hughes it is interesting because Dicapprio’s character at the beginning of the film is what most people would expect from him. However as his character’s condition worsens the paranoia and weird habits he develops is a portrayal not really associated with him. I guess this type of film might be attractive to an actor trying to break out of their usual genre classification allowing them to portray a role they are expected as well as get a shot at something new. It is a little strange to see a personal even a strange side of someone who so many people respect as a very successful businessman and entrepreneur.
1 response so far ↓
1 Densie // Apr 2, 2006 at 5:26 am
I have never seen the movie Aviator, because it didn’t look that interesting to me. I couldn’t really tell if you like it or not, maybe I will have to check it out anyway to see if I like it. After reading this chapter, I was also surprised by the many movies that I have never seen or even heard of, staring actors that I really like.