The actor and musician engages in a candid discussion about the disappointing performance of his recent films at the box office, reflecting on the challenges and unpredictability of the industry.
He also shares his admiration for the legendary comedian Oliver Hardy, whose work has profoundly influenced his own artistic journey. Additionally, he introduces his latest persona as a vaudeville crooner, revealing the creative process behind this new alter ego and how it allows him to explore different facets of his musical talent while paying homage to the rich traditions of classic entertainment.
Your roles fluctuate wildly between the serious and silly. Does one necessitate the other?
I have long held the belief that the essence of storytelling remains constant, regardless of the context. The key lies in striving for honesty; when one navigates absurd situations with sincerity, the result often veers into the realm of comedy. My intention is never to force humor or gravitas; rather, it is to present an authentic perspective.
When observing a portrayal of a villain, if the performance fails to evoke empathy or a deeper understanding of the character, I consider it a missed opportunity. Life itself is replete with contradictions, exemplified by the fact that even in moments of sorrow, such as at a funeral, humor can unexpectedly emerge.
This ability to find laughter amidst grief encapsulates the complexity of existence for me, highlighting the myriad shades of gray that define our experiences and emotions.
Years ago, I had the opportunity to perform in the musical Chicago, where I took on the role of Mister Cellophane. This experience reignited my passion for musical theatre, particularly the vaudeville style of performance, which emphasizes a direct connection with the audience rather than maintaining a sense of detachment.
I find great joy in engaging with the audience in such a vibrant manner. While I was eager to sing the various songs from the show, I couldn’t help but notice the increasingly unkind and divisive atmosphere in the world around me. This observation inspired me to create a character named Mister Romantic, who exists without any recollection of the past, allowing the performance to unfold in real-time.
The essence of this character and the accompanying show is to foster empathy and connection, while delving into the complexities of love and human relationships.
Who were your main inspirations for this album?
It is essential to acknowledge the profound musical influences of artists like Harry Nilsson, Irving Berlin, Tom Waits, and Nat King Cole. While I do not claim to match their extraordinary talents, these musicians exemplified a deep affection for their craft, embracing the beauty of a song and choosing to share it with the world.
I feel a connection to this artistic lineage, as I believe that a song, when truly cherished, should not be confined to a single interpretation; rather, it deserves to be revitalized and reimagined. I recognize that it may seem audacious to attempt to reinterpret these timeless pieces, especially after they have been so masterfully rendered by others.
However, life is meant to be experienced fully, and it is our responsibility to breathe new life into these works if they continue to resonate with us.
I truly admire Scarlett Johansson for her artistic choices. While I can envision Mister Romantic creating an entire album dedicated to the works of Tom Waits, I believe it is more likely that I would take on that endeavor myself. I often refer to Tom as Saint Tom, as he has profoundly influenced my life in numerous ways.
His impact extends beyond music; he has shaped my understanding of performance and the artistry involved in it. The way he approaches his craft and the dignity with which he presents himself are qualities I deeply respect. I discovered his music when I was just 18, and it was a transformative experience that altered the course of my life.
His unique ability to embody and interpret characters resonates with me, making him an enduring inspiration in my artistic journey.
I have been fortunate enough to encounter him on a few occasions. On one particular instance, as he was preparing for a film role, he approached me with a request: “Can you connect me with an acting teacher?” I found myself taken aback, as I thought to myself, Tom, with all due respect, you are one of the most remarkable storytellers of our time;
what insights could anyone possibly offer you about the craft of acting? Nevertheless, I arranged for him to meet Patrick Murphy, my first acting instructor and a dear friend. Their meeting took place in Sacramento, where they spent time at the zoo, engaging in discussions about character development while observing the animals.
I often find it challenging to choose favorites, yet my admiration for Brats stands out prominently. This particular work has significantly shaped my unique sense of humor, and in an unexpected way, I feel as though I have been preparing for the role I eventually took on throughout my life, having watched those films repeatedly during my childhood. Oliver Hardy has been a constant source of inspiration for me; he is undoubtedly one of the most remarkable clowns in history.
However, a poignant aspect of his legacy is the fact that he possessed a stunning singing voice, an exceptional tenor, yet there are only a handful of recordings of him performing, all of which are linked to his film appearances. This scarcity is truly unfortunate, and I am determined to avoid a similar fate.
If my singing resonates with people, I want to ensure that they have ample opportunity to hear me convey my artistic expression.
