Shia Labeouf has always been one of our most provocative actors. The guy got out of the Disney factory and wanted to stand out, and along the way, has somehow understood who he is and what he believes.
Recently, he was on the Podcast Bad Friends, where he talked about his life, his career and his latest film, Megalopolis.
Let’s dive.
Shia Labeouf on the “megalopolis”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7dyGga2K5Qs
I am aware that Shia is a real polarizing figure. But what I loved in this interview with him, and David Mamet is that he is very, very honest. I thought it really gave us a decent overview of what it is to make a film that you may not understand.
In the video, Labeouf recognized the immense influence that Coppola had on the film industry and spoke of the challenge of fully grasping the director’s vision during their collaboration.
This has often led him to rely on the director, not only out of respect, but due to the weight of Coppola’s power and influence in the industry.
The main problem of Labeouf was that Coppola was a guy who had lived a whole life and spoke of emotions and feelings on which he, as a younger man, had no handful. He couldn’t see his vision because of this, and it took the Labeouf by surprise.
But that also led him to work with David Mamet.
Mamet collaboration
Labeouf is now working with legend David Mamet on a film, and he passionately expressed that working on a Mamet project was a “dream come true”. Part of this has to do with the incessant persistence and dedication of Mamet at work. The film on which they work together is called Henry Johnson.
The film follows a compassionate man whose life is finally ruined by those who enjoy his kindness, a trip that attracts him to prison.
Regarding Labeouf, its process has changed over the years, but something that remains consistent is that it still manages lines for games in the shower. He attributes to Mamet to teach him the importance of knowing the lines perfectly before even starting rehearsals, a discipline he clearly carries with him.
He needs it because Mamet rigorously blocks his equipment and wants all the movements of the actors to feel like a second nature.
Sum up everything
I thought that the interview had given us a convincing portrait of an artist constantly evolving and learning. Shia Labeouf continues to understand her voice in the world of film and learn legends that can teach her new things.
Let me know what you think in the comments.
