This episode features Jeremy Strong, an Oscar-nominated actor known for his impactful role as Roy Cohn in Succession; Sebastian Stan, who received acclaim for his portrayal of Donald Trump in The Apprentice; and Adrien Brody, an Oscar winner preparing for his role in The Brutalist. They discuss the complexities of portraying controversial figures, the moral implications of their characters, and the artistic challenges that accompany such roles. The intense negotiation scenes between Cohn and Trump offer profound insight into their troubled legacies.
Jeremy Strong highlights the emotional complexities involved in portraying Roy Cohn, emphasizing the responsibility of accurately capturing his controversial legacy in American politics.
Adrien Brody reflects on the immigrant experience in The Brutalist, showcasing the enduring struggle for identity and resilience in a post-war society.
Deep dives
Jeremy Strong's Portrayal of Roy Cohn
Jeremy Strong discusses the complexities of portraying Roy Cohn in the film The Apprentice, shedding light on Cohn's notorious legacy as a lawyer and political consultant. Known for his ruthless tactics, Cohn played a significant role in shaping the approach of Donald Trump, teaching him the art of denial and aggression in the face of legal challenges. Strong emphasizes the emotional and intuitive aspect of acting, ensuring his portrayal remains true to the essence of Cohn's character, despite the historical controversy surrounding him. He reflects on the responsibility of accurately capturing such a polarizing figure, acknowledging Cohn's role in the dark side of American politics.
Sebastian Stan as Young Donald Trump
Sebastian Stan highlights the nuances of portraying a young Donald Trump in The Apprentice, focusing on the character's early ambition in real estate. As Trump faces a lawsuit for discrimination, he seeks mentorship from Roy Cohn, leading to a pivotal relationship that shapes his aggressive business tactics. Stan intentionally differentiates his portrayal from the well-known Trump persona, aiming to capture his character's evolution rather than reduce him to a caricature. His performance is a careful exploration of Trump during a formative time in his life, marked by insecurity and a burning desire for validation.
The Impact of Roy Cohn on Trump's Tactics
The film examines the profound influence Roy Cohn had on Donald Trump’s approach to conflict and business, particularly in how he dealt with adversity. Cohn's legal strategies, characterized by relentless intimidation and refusal to accept defeat, are depicted as foundational principles that Trump adopted throughout his career. This mentor-mentee dynamic is illustrated through a scene where Trump expresses concern over a lawsuit, while Cohn encourages him to counterattack through legal means rather than concede. The film suggests that Cohn's harsh principles and strategies not only shaped Trump’s business ventures but also contributed to his political rise.
Adrian Brody's Role in The Brutalist
Adrian Brody portrays Laszlo Toth, a Hungarian refugee navigating the complexities of the American dream in The Brutalist. The character's journey reflects the struggles of immigrants adapting to new realities while dealing with the haunting memories of war-torn Europe. Brody's commitment to authenticity in his roles is emphasized, showcasing how past experiences in films have influenced his understanding of hardship and resilience. The film serves as a commentary on creativity and endurance in the face of adversity, paralleling Brody's methods of fully immersing himself in his characters to convey their authentic emotional landscapes.
The Academy Awards are this Sunday. We hear from the two stars of the film The Apprentice, Sebastian Stan and Jeremy Strong. It'sabout how a young Donald Trump was influenced by the infamous, unscrupulous lawyer Roy Cohn.
Also, we hear from Adrien Brody, who is nominated for his starring role in the film The Brutalist, in which he plays a Hungarian-Jewish architect and Holocaust survivor who seeks a fresh start in post-WWII America.
John Powers reviews the animated film Flow, which has been nominated for both best animated feature and best international film.