Tom Hardy & Gareth Edwards bring Havoc

Summary

In this insightful conversation, Tom and Gareth delve into the complexity of characters, focusing on villains who either knowingly make choices that label them as evil or those unaware of the impact of their actions. They discuss the appeal of morally ambiguous characters who see themselves as heroes in their own stories, making them more fascinating than one-dimensional good characters. Gareth also shares his approach to action sequences, emphasizing the importance of breaking down shots and managing energy levels for the cast, ensuring both physicality and precision during intense scenes.

Takeaways

• 😀 A character that doesn't see themselves as evil is often more interesting than one who is consciously aware of their villainy.
• 😀 Villains who understand the consequences of their choices are compelling, as they recognize the path that led them to become who they are.
• 😀 There are villains who view themselves as heroes, believing their actions, even if perceived as bad, are justified.
• 😀 The most engaging characters often aren't purely good or bad but are multifaceted and complex.
• 😀 The portrayal of symbolic good or evil can make for less interesting storytelling in film, TV, or theater.
• 😀 Action sequences in films can be overwhelming but can be broken down into manageable segments for actors to handle.
• 😀 Directors like Gareth break down action scenes shot by shot, allowing for more precise and less intimidating performances.
• 😀 The use of specific shots in action sequences allows the production team to manage details like makeup, prosthetics, lighting, and stunts efficiently.
• 😀 Actors are informed about which parts of the sequence will be physically demanding, helping them conserve energy for lighter moments.
• 😀 A well-organized production schedule helps in planning out the action scenes in a way that makes the whole process more understandable and less overwhelming for the cast.
• 😀 Detailed planning of each action shot helps ensure that the final sequence is impactful without draining the cast or crew too quickly.

Q & A

What is the difference between a character who doesn't see themselves as evil and one who acknowledges their villainous role?

A character who doesn't see themselves as evil typically believes in their own righteousness or justification for their actions. On the other hand, a character who acknowledges their villainous role understands the consequences of their actions and the perception others have of them. They may even consciously accept the label of a villain, like Walker does.

Why are characters who understand the choices they've made, and accept their consequences, more interesting to portray than those who see themselves as good?

Characters who understand the road they've traveled and the decisions they've made are more dynamic and complex. Their internal conflict and self-awareness create depth, making them more interesting to portray. This contrasts with characters who are purely good and don't explore the darker aspects of themselves, which can lead to one-dimensional portrayals.

What is the significance of villains who recognize their actions versus those who are unconscious of them?

Villains who recognize their actions are aware of their choices, which adds a layer of responsibility and intentionality to their character. They might see themselves as the hero in their own story, making their motivations more understandable and compelling. Those who are unconscious of their evil actions, however, might seem more detached or ignorant, which can also be intriguing but lacks the same self-awareness.

How do characters who view themselves as heroes in their own story impact the narrative?

Characters who view themselves as heroes, even if they are seen as villains by others, add complexity to the narrative. Their belief in their own righteousness, despite their actions, creates a nuanced moral framework, making the audience question the nature of good and evil.

What was the approach Gareth used to help actors prepare for action sequences?

Gareth's approach was to break down the action sequences into smaller, more manageable parts. Instead of filming wide, intimidating master shots, he chose to focus on individual shots that were specifically designed to capture one moment at a time. This helped actors understand the physical demands of each shot and allowed them to preserve energy for the more taxing parts of the sequence.

What advice did Gareth give to actors regarding the physical demands of action sequences?

Gareth advised actors to be prepared for the relentless nature of the action sequences. He emphasized the importance of wearing protective gear like gum shields and cups and gave them practical advice, such as calling their mom beforehand. This helped set expectations for the physical intensity and constant pace of the shoot.

Why does Gareth prefer not to shoot wide master shots during action sequences?

Gareth avoids wide master shots because they can be overwhelming for both the actors and the crew. Instead, he breaks the action down into specific shots that focus on individual moments, which makes the filming process more manageable and less intimidating. This allows for greater control over the scene and ensures that every detail is captured properly.

How does Gareth's shooting style contribute to the efficiency of filming action sequences?

By focusing on specific shots rather than wide masters, Gareth's approach allows for a more organized and efficient filming process. It makes the complex nature of action sequences less overwhelming, and allows the production team to be more precise in their planning and execution of stunts, makeup, lighting, and other elements.

What benefits does breaking down action sequences into smaller shots provide for the cast?

Breaking down action sequences into smaller shots helps the cast understand what is required for each individual moment. This enables them to focus on the specific demands of each shot, manage their energy, and avoid fatigue during the intense action scenes. It also allows for a more tailored approach to physicality and performance.

How does the breakdown of shots affect the planning for other departments like makeup, prosthetics, and stunts?

The breakdown of shots provides clarity for other departments, allowing them to know exactly what will be required for each part of the sequence. It helps in the coordination of makeup, prosthetics, rigging, lighting, and special effects, as they can prepare for specific moments in the sequence. This detailed planning ensures everything runs smoothly on set.