Tom Hanks discusses the challenges of capturing the world of filmmaking in his new novel and how his own experiences influenced its themes and characters.
Hanks shares his favorite drink, 'Diet Cokeane,' a mix of Diet Coca-Cola and champagne, and his enjoyment in songwriting for the movie 'That Thing You Do.'
Hanks emphasizes the significance of time in determining a movie's quality and cultural impact, citing examples of initially dismissed films that became revered classics over time.
Deep dives
Tom Hanks discusses the making of his new novel
In this podcast episode, Adam Buxton interviews acclaimed actor and writer Tom Hanks about his new novel, The Making of Another Major Motion Picture Masterpiece. Hanks shares insights into his writing process and the challenges of capturing the world of filmmaking in a novel. He discusses how his own experiences in the industry influenced the book's themes and characters. Hanks also reflects on the importance of maintaining a positive attitude towards movies and the impact of time on a film's legacy. Throughout the conversation, he provides anecdotes and perspectives that offer an engaging glimpse into his creative work.
Tom Hanks on his favorite drink and his songwriting
During the podcast, Tom Hanks reveals his favorite drink, a concoction called Diet Cokeane, which combines Diet Coca-Cola with a shot of champagne. He also discusses his experience in songwriting and mentions songs he wrote for the movie 'That Thing You Do.' Hanks shares some behind-the-scenes stories and highlights the enjoyment he finds in the creative processes of both writing and music.
Tom Hanks on the challenges of movie-making
Hanks discusses the challenges of making movies, including the pressures of competition and the need to trust and collaborate with the entire ensemble. He reflects on the inherently uncertain nature of the industry and the importance of recognizing the immense effort that goes into every film. Hanks emphasizes the significance of time in determining a movie's quality and cultural impact and shares examples of movies that were initially dismissed but have become revered classics over time.
Tom Hanks on aging and self-care
Tom Hanks shares his perspective on aging and self-care. He suggests that while exercise becomes less demanding, regular physical activity is still essential. Hanks emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balanced diet, emphasizing the mantra of eating real food, not too much, and mostly plants. He also speaks about the role of moderation and the lifelong process of understanding and caring for one's physical well-being.
Tom Hanks reflects on his COVID-19 experience
Hanks discusses his experience being diagnosed with COVID-19 and the subsequent impact on the film industry. He reflects on the initial uncertainty and challenges of the pandemic and the effects on movie production. Hanks shares insights into the safety protocols on film sets and the resilience and adaptability required to continue making movies during the pandemic. He also mentions the importance of maintaining a positive attitude and how moments of uncertainty can be powerful opportunities for creative exploration.
Adam talks with American actor and writer Tom Hanks about his new novel The Making Of Another Major Motion Picture Masterpiece, as well as why it's important not to walk out of films, favourite drinks, dogs, whether an AI Tom Hanks will be as good as a real Tom Hanks, working with Wes Anderson and other important stuff.
Conversation recorded remotely on April 18th, 2023
Thanks to Séamus Murphy-Mitchell for production support and conversation editing.
Genial host Bill Simmons conducts an excellent talk with Hanks about the first half of his career including particularly good insights about two of my favourite Tom Hanks films: Cast Away and Big.