Hilary Swank: Moving to Hollywood with $75 and Whether She’d Do “Boys Don’t Cry” Today
Feb 20, 2024
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Hilary Swank shares her inspiring journey from a trailer park to Hollywood success, including her breakout role in 'Boys Don't Cry' and challenges in the industry. She reflects on playing a transgender character, underrated movies, and balancing acting with motherhood. Swank's newest film 'Ordinary Angels' is highlighted in the conversation.
Hilary Swank's inspiring journey from trailer park to two-time Academy Award winner showcases the power of determination and love for acting.
Through her role in 'Boys Don't Cry,' Swank highlights the importance of empathy in storytelling and representation for marginalized communities.
Deep dives
Hilary Swank's Journey from Humble Beginnings to Oscar Success
Actress Hilary Swank shares her inspiring journey from growing up in a trailer park to becoming a two-time Academy Award-winning actress. Despite facing challenges and rejection, Swank's determination and love for acting propelled her forward. She discusses the transformative experience of stepping into different characters' shoes and the empathy it fosters. Swank emphasizes the importance of perseverance and the joy of working hard to achieve personal growth. While she clarifies her stance on representation and the roles she would take today, Swank remains passionate about storytelling and continuing to explore new roles.
The Impact and Recognition of 'Boys Don't Cry'
Swank reflects on her groundbreaking role in the independent film 'Boys Don't Cry,' portraying the real-life story of Brandon Tina. She shares her experiences preparing for the role, including living as a man to better understand the character's journey. Swank highlights the significance of the film in giving visibility to the transgender community and allowing people to feel seen and understood. She emphasizes the power of empathy in acting and the role of storytelling in bridging gaps and promoting acceptance.
Perseverance and Navigating the Film Industry
Swank discusses the challenges of navigating the film industry, facing rejection, and persevering in the face of setbacks. She shares her own experiences of being written out of a television show and the lessons she learned from those experiences. Swank emphasizes the importance of trust and embracing the unknown, noting that failures and unexpected opportunities can often lead to profound growth and success. She also touches on the significance of independent films and the opportunities they offer for actors to break into the industry.
Balancing Parenthood and Career
As a new mother, Swank shares how her role as a parent has shifted her priorities and influenced her career choices. She expresses a desire to spend quality time with her children and the need for any future roles to align with her commitment to being present for her family. Swank emphasizes the importance of cherishing this time and being able to witness her children's growth and development. However, she also remains passionate about acting and looks forward to exploring new roles that allow her to continue her journey as an actor.
Hilary Swank is one of just 14 women to win not one but two Academy Awards for Best Actress (Boys Don’t Cry, Million Dollar Baby). And as you’ll learn today, her life story just as remarkable as her career: from growing up in a trailer park (“it was no big deal”) to moving to L.A. as a teenager and living with her mom in their car for a time while chasing her dreams, to her breakthrough role as Brandon Teena in the indie film “Boys Don’t Cry” – a performance that earned Hilary an Oscar, and just $3,000. She also reflects on playing a transgender character as a cisgender woman; which movie she feels doesn’t get nearly the credit it deserves; and how she envisions the next chapter of her career after becoming a mother last year.