Your new film,Sinners, sounds scary. What scares you?MrSOBaldrickLoneliness.I’ve always wanted to act, but I’ve never taken the plunge. Has there been a role where you felt youtook a plungeout of your comfort zone?AliciaGrace1Getting to portray an American comes with inherent impostor syndrome, because so many other US actors could take the role. The roles I’ve played in the US have bigger distinctions from my lived experiences than some of my other roles. But it can be rewarding and fulfilling to do something that’s very different, so it works both ways.’71 wasone hell of a white-knuckle ridearound the backstreets of Belfast. Did you get that sense of urban claustrophobia when filming it?Aubrey26We didn’t actually film any of it in Belfast. I think it would be quite insensitive to shoot that type of story on the streets where, not so long ago, that ferocious, urban conflict was getting lived out for real. There’s no way you can pull that off without upsetting people. We shot a lot of it on the Derbyshire-Yorkshire border.Didthe ’71 screenwriter, Gregory Burke,draft the screenplay to fit your background,for example the line about Derby and Nottingham folk not getting on?InverclydediasporaYeah, dead on. Originally, my character was from Sheffield. I think the original line was people from Sheffield and Leeds not getting on, but those local rivalries are relevant over the whole country.View image in fullscreenMean streets … Jack O’Connell in ’71.Photograph: Moviestore/Rex/ShutterstockDid Michael Caine really yell: “Star of the future!” at you while filmingHarry Brown? And didAngelina Joliereally hire a helicopter for you to join a family dinner in Derby while filmingUnbroken?TurangaLeela2Michael Caine had me tied up to a chair, interrogating me. I had to spit in his face, which was massively daunting. I think it was doing that that caused him to come out with that. I’ve not forgotten it. It was totally mind-blowing for a 19-year-old to be working with someone like Michael Caine, a hugely important actor for young, working-class actors.We were doing prep for Unbroken. I had to lose quite a bit of weight [to play the Olympic runner Louis Zamperini], so I was hunkering down in a hotel in Ascot, dieting and learning my lines. Before we went off to shoot in Australia, Angelina wanted to meet my family, my nearest and dearest. We got together somewhere on the outskirts of Derby that was rural enough to land a helicopter. Everyone just buzzed off each other. My nana picked a moment during the meal to stand up to say a few words, in that way old-school nanas would, and I think that really stuck with her [Jolie].How did you prepare for your role inStarred Up?ExileCuChulainnJonathan Asser [the writer] was generous enough, once we’d been cast and rehearsed a few times, to step back and give us licence to invent stuff and bring new things to the fold. We filmed sequentially, so it was very organic. We shot it at this empty, crumbling Victorian jail in Belfast and had free rein there, apart from the odd guided tour. It can certainly be challenging when the subject matter is dark, because you’re dealing within trauma. It helps to equip yourself with as much information as possible to do justice to what you’re trying to portray.View image in fullscreenUnder starter’s orders … O’Connell as the Olympian Louis Zamperini in Unbroken.Photograph: Universal Pictures/Sportsphoto/AllstarWhois your favourite character you’ve played?jessputnamI couldn’t possibly say. I’ve been very fortunate. I think it’s obvious what character people associate me with [Cook from Skins], but I don’t mind that – it’s a massive compliment. I think by the time we turned up [the second iteration of characters in season three], we knew we were on to something that felt culturally important. It amazes me that people still talk to me about it, 15 years on.You made your directorial debut last year,directing the video forPaul Weller’s Nothing. Are you a big fan of the Modfather?VerulamiumParkRangerAlways have been: the Jam, the Style Council, his solo material. It was a huge honour. We shot it over three or four days and I loved every second. It’s made me hungry to do more. He originally asked me to be in one of his videos. That’s when I chanced my hand and said: “I could direct one?” He obliged and I shat myself.View image in fullscreen‘It felt culturally important’ … O’Connell, pictured with Lisa Backwell, found fame as Cook in Skins.Photograph: Geoffrey Swaine/ShutterstockI saw you in Caton a Hot Tin Roof. How was it performing nude night after night?Kellysahero1970There’s a nude scene at the start of the play and another at the end.The play starts in the shower. It would be very odd to be in the shower wearing clothing. So I just assumed: I’ll be naked. You just crack on. But I guess, for the audience, being met with that image of me being naked … I remember a few gasps in the matinees from the coach trippers. They weren’t there after the interval.Can Danny Boyle and Cillian Murphy’s 28 Years Later take zombie films to the next level?Read moreWhat was it like working withDanny Boyle on28 Years Later?TopTrampA dream come true. We shot two films – the sequel and the sequel to the sequel [28 Years Later: The Bone Temple]. Growing up, his work meant an enormous amount to me. What his films have done for cinema, British cinema and culture, is hard to encapsulate. On set, I was all eyes and ears, absolutely beside myself. He’s there by the cameras, in the trenches. He’s not sat on some hilltop being fed blueberries. He’s among it and it’s all very immediate.WhichDerby County playerwould you most like to play in a biopic? I reckon TheMarco GabbiadiniStory is well worth telling (Goals! Glory! Caravans!B&Bs!) but that may be a bit before your time.LoumoI love this question, man. I’m gonna go for [the Italy striker] Fabrizio Ravanelli, for the glitz and glamour, so long as we can ignore the [1996-97] Middlesbrough era. I expect the offer will come in now. That’s usually how it works. I say something in the Guardian, tongue in cheek, then someone will write a script.Sinners is in UK and Irish cinemas from 18 April
‘I had to spit in Michael Caine’s face’: Jack O’Connell on Skins, impostor syndrome and stripping off
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Jack O'Connell Discusses Career Challenges, Notable Collaborations, and New Film 'Sinners'"
The Guardian
8.6
TruthLens AI Summary
Jack O'Connell, known for his role in 'Skins', recently opened up about his experiences in the film industry, touching on themes of impostor syndrome and the challenges of stepping outside his comfort zone. He expressed that portraying an American character often leads to feelings of inadequacy, especially given the vast pool of American actors available for such roles. However, he finds it rewarding to take on projects that differ from his lived experiences. His latest film, 'Sinners', is described as a scary venture, and he highlighted the importance of sensitivity when choosing filming locations, noting that they opted for the Derbyshire-Yorkshire border instead of Belfast to avoid upsetting the local community, which has a history of urban conflict.
O'Connell reflected on his early career, recalling memorable moments with notable actors like Michael Caine and Angelina Jolie. He described a particularly daunting scene in 'Harry Brown' where he had to spit in Caine's face, an experience that left a lasting impression on him as a young actor. Additionally, he shared a heartwarming story about Jolie, who arranged a helicopter to meet his family while they were filming 'Unbroken'. O'Connell also discussed his directorial debut with Paul Weller’s music video and the challenges of performing nude in 'Cat on a Hot Tin Roof', emphasizing the naturalness of such scenes in the context of the play. He expressed admiration for filmmaker Danny Boyle, recalling the excitement of working alongside him on the upcoming '28 Years Later', highlighting the influence Boyle's work has had on British cinema. O'Connell's journey through these diverse roles showcases his growth as an actor and his willingness to embrace new challenges in his career.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article provides insight into the experiences of actor Jack O’Connell, touching on themes such as impostor syndrome, acting challenges, and memorable moments from his career. It reflects on his personal journey within the film industry while addressing common fears and the emotional weight of performing.
Exploration of Impostor Syndrome
O’Connell articulates his feelings of impostor syndrome, particularly when portraying American characters. This sentiment resonates with many actors who face the daunting task of stepping outside their cultural backgrounds. By sharing his struggles, he may be aiming to connect with others who experience similar feelings, thereby normalizing and validating these emotions in the creative industry.
Filming Locations and Sensitivity
The decision not to film in Belfast for the movie ’71 reflects a conscious choice to avoid insensitivity toward historical conflicts. This highlights the importance of context in storytelling and the responsibility filmmakers have to honor the locations and their histories. O’Connell’s comments suggest a thoughtful approach to filmmaking, which could resonate positively with audiences aware of the area's past.
Memorable Collaborations
O’Connell recounts significant experiences with well-known actors like Michael Caine and Angelina Jolie, which adds a layer of excitement and credibility to his narrative. The mention of Caine’s encouragement and Jolie’s extravagant gesture serves to emphasize the highs of his career, potentially inspiring younger actors or fans. This could also serve to market his upcoming projects by associating him with established names in the industry.
Public Perception and Community Engagement
The article appears to foster a sense of community among fans and aspiring actors by openly discussing vulnerabilities and career milestones. This approach may attract support from those who admire authenticity in storytelling and appreciate openness about mental health within the arts.
Potential Economic and Social Impact
The insights shared may affect public interest in O’Connell’s upcoming film, potentially driving box office success. In a broader context, the film industry often influences social conversations, and narratives around mental health may encourage discussions among viewers, contributing to societal awareness.
Target Audience
The article seems to cater to a diverse audience, including film enthusiasts, aspiring actors, and mental health advocates. By addressing universal themes of fear and vulnerability, it seeks to resonate with various communities who value these topics in the arts.
Market Influence
While the article itself may not have direct implications for stock markets, the promotion of an upcoming film can influence its financial performance. Success in the box office can lead to increased interest in related stocks, particularly those associated with production companies or streaming services.
Global Relevance
The themes of impostor syndrome and mental health are universally relevant, particularly in the current cultural climate where discussions around these issues are increasingly prominent. The article taps into ongoing dialogues, making it timely and significant in today’s context.
Use of AI in Reporting
There is no clear indication that artificial intelligence played a role in crafting this article. The conversational tone and personal anecdotes suggest a human touch. However, if AI were involved, it might have influenced the structuring or style of the writing, potentially steering it towards a more engaging narrative format. In conclusion, the article serves to highlight the complexities of an actor's journey while navigating personal and professional challenges. It aims to foster connection and understanding among readers, promoting a supportive community. The reliability of the content is strengthened by O’Connell's candidness and the relevant issues discussed.