Matthew McConaughey Explains His Acting Choices In True Detective - Drinkin' Bros Clips

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Matthew McConaughey discusses his experience working on *True Detective*, reflecting on the collaboration with Woody Harrelson. He talks about how the show, which set the standard for TV at the time, wasn’t seen as prestigious for movie stars to join. McConaughey shares his excitement about the script and his commitment to character over medium. He also addresses Woody's initial struggles with their on-screen dynamic and how their contrasting performances created unique, compelling chemistry. Their behind-the-scenes camaraderie is also explored, revealing how McConaughey’s serious approach to his role contrasted with Harrelson's comedic instincts.

Takeaways

• 😀 McConaughey considers *True Detective* the best single season of television in history.
• 😀 McConaughey and Woody Harrelson's on-screen chemistry is regarded as one of the best in TV history.
• 😀 The series was groundbreaking for its time, with many major movie stars not yet transitioning to TV roles.
• 😀 McConaughey emphasizes the importance of content, story, and character over the medium (TV vs. film).
• 😀 Despite initial hesitation about doing TV, McConaughey was immediately sold on the project due to its strong narrative.
• 😀 McConaughey initially had the option to play Woody's role but was more drawn to playing the role of Rust Cohle.
• 😀 McConaughey's decision to join *True Detective* was motivated by the character's complexity and the gripping storyline.
• 😀 McConaughey enjoyed the suspense and thrill of watching the show week-to-week with his family, much like any fan.
• 😀 Woody Harrelson shared that he had difficulty separating McConaughey from his character, Rust Cohle, during filming.
• 😀 The dynamic between McConaughey and Harrelson on set was a blend of both drama and comedy, adding depth to their performances.

Q & A

What is Matthew McConaughey's opinion on *True Detective*'s first season?

McConaughey considers *True Detective*'s first season to be the best single season of television in history, highlighting its exceptional storytelling and his collaboration with Woody Harrelson.

Why did McConaughey initially hesitate to take on a television role in *True Detective*?

McConaughey was initially concerned about the taboo surrounding big movie stars working in television. However, his decision was driven by his focus on content, story, and character rather than the medium.

How did McConaughey decide on his role as Rust Cohle in *True Detective*?

McConaughey was initially offered the role of Marty Hart, but after reading the script, he felt a stronger connection with Rust Cohle, a character he found more compelling and intriguing.

What did McConaughey think about the shift of movie stars to television in recent years?

McConaughey observes that with the decline of the movie theater industry and the rise of streaming platforms, more major movie stars are now turning to television. He reflects on how *True Detective* set a standard for high-quality television.

What was McConaughey's approach to the medium of television while working on *True Detective*?

McConaughey emphasized that he cared more about the content, character, and story than the screen size or whether it was a TV show or a movie. He was determined to pursue projects that felt artistically rewarding, regardless of the platform.

How did McConaughey and Woody Harrelson's off-screen friendship influence their on-screen dynamic?

Their close friendship off-screen made their on-screen chemistry feel authentic, though Harrelson admitted that during filming, he struggled to distinguish between McConaughey’s portrayal of Rust Cohle and McConaughey himself.

What tension did Harrelson express about McConaughey's performance as Rust Cohle?

Harrelson found McConaughey's serious, nihilistic portrayal of Rust Cohle to be difficult to work with, as it disrupted their usual back-and-forth comedic dynamic. Harrelson wanted more balance, but McConaughey stuck with the darker tone of his character.

How did McConaughey describe the dynamics during their scenes together in *True Detective*?

McConaughey described their dynamic as a constant push and pull, with Harrelson’s character getting increasingly frustrated with McConaughey’s deadpan delivery and nihilistic views, which added to the tension and humor of their scenes.

What role did the exasperation Harrelson felt towards McConaughey’s character play in the show’s success?

Harrelson’s exasperation with McConaughey’s character helped create memorable moments, particularly in scenes where his character, Marty Hart, became frustrated with Rust Cohle’s views, enhancing the humor and dramatic impact of their interactions.

What is McConaughey's overall reflection on working with Woody Harrelson on *True Detective*?

McConaughey fondly reflects on their collaboration, noting that their strong friendship and their unique on-screen partnership created one of the most compelling dynamics in television. He cherishes the experience and enjoys how their off-screen bond translated into their roles.