Exposing the Real Way Conservatives in Hollywood Are Targeted | Dennis Quaid
Sep 1, 2024
auto_awesome
Dennis Quaid, an esteemed actor known for his extensive career in Hollywood, shares his concerns about the industry's evolution. He laments the decline of fun and original films, contrasting them with today’s dark and politically charged narratives. Quaid discusses the risks of sharing conservative views and reflects on the legacy of Ronald Reagan, who serves as an inspiration for his upcoming biopic. The conversation also touches on the emotional scars left by political violence and the need for unity in a divided society.
Dennis Quaid discusses the decline of creativity in Hollywood, emphasizing the industry's shift towards fewer films with repetitive and darker themes.
Quaid highlights the growing risk for actors expressing political views in Hollywood, leading to a climate of cancellation and reduced open dialogue.
Deep dives
The Shift in Hollywood Films
Hollywood has experienced a notable shift in the type of films produced over the past few decades. While movies like 'Inner Space' embodied creativity and a light-hearted approach, the current landscape often favors serious tones and repetitive themes, such as remakes and franchises. This change has led to fewer original stories, with studios focusing on a limited number of big-budget films, which tend to lack the adventurous spirit that characterized past cinema. A stark contrast is drawn between earlier cinematic offerings and today’s fare, prompting discussions about the declining variety and creativity in the film industry.
Politics in Hollywood
The influence of politics in Hollywood has evolved, impacting how actors express their views and the nature of political discourse within the industry. There is a sense that expressing political opinions has become increasingly risky for actors, leading to instances of 'cancellation' for those who voice dissenting perspectives. This climate has stifled open dialogue and diverse viewpoints, contrasting with earlier eras when actors like John Wayne and Charlton Heston could collaborate despite differing political beliefs. The conversation highlights a potential shift toward re-establishing an environment where diverse political opinions can coexist more freely.
Portraying Ronald Reagan
Playing a historical figure like Ronald Reagan requires a deep understanding of both public persona and private life, which can be challenging. The actor preparing for this role emphasized the importance of capturing Reagan's essence beyond mere impersonation, striving to convey his humanity and complexities. This journey involved significant research, including insights from people close to Reagan and time spent at his ranch, which revealed his humble character. The aim is to portray not just Reagan's accomplishments, but also his insecurities and the moral principles that guided his actions, thereby providing a well-rounded depiction.
Dave Rubin of “The Rubin Report” talks to Dennis Quaid about his long Hollywood career and the changes in the film industry; his concern over the decline of fun, original movies; why studios now focus on fewer films, often with dark themes or political agendas, unlike the diverse content of past decades; the history of politics in Hollywood, like Ronald Reagan's anti-communism efforts; his political views, his support for Trump, and how it has impacted his career in Hollywood; how sharing political his opinions has become risky, and has led to attempts to cancel him; why he felt compelled to speak out in this election; the diminishing mystery around actors due to social media; his connection to Ronald Reagan, which inspired him to take on the role in the upcoming biopic “Reagan”; the recent assassination attempt on Donald Trump and how it recalls Reagan's 1981 attempt; the national trauma from past assassinations; his portrayal of Ronald Reagan and his commitment to showing Reagan's humanity; how Reagan's ability to compromise, exemplified by his relationship with Tip O'Neill, is a model of unity and cooperation for politicians today; and much more.