The Transformation of Ethan Hawke: Unveiling the Secrets Behind 'Blue Moon'
In the world of cinema, stepping into a character often requires more than just physical changes. For Ethan Hawke, portraying Lorenz Hart in Richard Linklater's 'Blue Moon' demanded a complete metamorphosis, one that left him almost unrecognizable.
Hawke, with his balding and diminutive appearance, embodies the lyricist behind timeless hits like 'Blue Moon' and 'My Funny Valentine.' In the film, his character, Hart, makes a memorable entrance at Sardi's on the opening night of 'Oklahoma!', oscillating between sharing anecdotes about his career triumphs and lamenting the theater world that has seemingly forgotten him, including his former partner, Richard Rodgers.
But here's where it gets controversial...
Linklater reveals that the process of bringing Hart to life involved a 'dismantling' of Ethan Hawke himself.
"We were kind of dismantling Ethan Hawke," Linklater explained. "Larry Hart is all brain, wit, and mouth. His physical presence wasn't the focus. For the role to work, Ethan's natural gestures and mannerisms had to be minimized."
And this is the part most people miss...
Hawke describes Linklater's direction as a 'little howl into the night,' a challenge that required him to shed his own persona. He calls the role the 'hardest thing' he's ever done, and with good reason.
The film's unique approach, shot largely in one location - a replica of Sardi's built in Dublin - meant Hawke was constantly in the spotlight, his character's struggles on full display as he sneaks drinks during a celebratory party for Rodgers.
The journey to 'Blue Moon' began over a decade ago when Linklater received pages of Lorenz Hart monologues from Robert Kaplow. As a theater enthusiast, Linklater immediately envisioned Hawke in the role, having collaborated with him on numerous projects.
"My love for the theater runs deep, and my mentors often remind me of Larry Hart. I couldn't stop wondering what it would be like to sit next to him at the 'Oklahoma!' premiere. It felt mythical."
Over the years, Linklater and Hawke worked through a series of readings, with Kaplow adjusting the script after each session. Hawke aged into the part, and through workshops, he found his way into the complex role.
Bobby Cannavale joined the cast, playing the Sardi's bartender, a character Linklater described as 'New York City in human form.' Hawke and Cannavale spent time at the real Sardi's in Manhattan, immersing themselves in the atmosphere before filming in Dublin.
The Sardi's set, with its local actors speaking in Dublin accents, added a layer of authenticity, making it feel like a true Broadway haunt.
Andrew Scott, who plays Richard Rodgers, spoke about the challenge of portraying a composer known for his cold, businesslike demeanor. He chose to focus on the dynamic between Rodgers and Hart, as written in the script, rather than any preconceived notions.
"They had a real creative bond, but their working relationship became unproductive. Lorenz Hart's alcoholism was a significant factor. It's an elephant in the room during this heady opening night."
Scott spent time rehearsing the 'geography and choreography' of the scene, ensuring the conversation between Rodgers and Hart felt spontaneous and believable amidst the bustling party atmosphere.
"Ethan's performance is incredibly empathetic. We all understand the challenges of our industry, especially when you're not at your creative peak. It's a struggle to exist sometimes, as you have to give so much of yourself."
As for the opening scene, where Hart is shown collapsed in an alley, Hawke believes pity is too simplistic an emotion for such a complex character.
"It's about witnessing a mind raging against the inevitable fall of night, defeating itself. That's what makes Hart an incredibly complex character. The audience should be intrigued by these contradictions - loving and hating Richard Rogers, longing for success while battling alcoholism, being gay and in love with a woman. It's like watching a tragic, yet fascinating, car accident."
'Blue Moon' is a testament to the power of transformation and the depth of character exploration in cinema.
What do you think? Is 'dismantling' an actor necessary for a role like this? Share your thoughts in the comments!
