Celebrated actor Tom Hanks discusses his debut novel, nomadic upbringing, inspiration from Stanley Kubrick, early work in Shakespeare, dramatic roles in Philadelphia and Forrest Gump, making Cast Away, receiving AFI Lifetime Achievement award, reflecting on human experience, kinship with Joe DiMaggio, friendship with Holland Taylor and Nora Ephron, and his desire to keep telling the Cecil B. DeMille story.
Tom Hanks emphasizes the importance of curiosity and storytelling from his nomadic upbringing.
Hanks highlights the significance of embodying truth and decency in portraying characters with moral integrity.
Hanks reflects on his dedication to artistic excellence and authentic storytelling, drawing inspiration from real-life figures.
Deep dives
Tom Hanks Reflects on His Journey as an Actor and Storyteller
Tom Hanks discusses his nomadic upbringing and early love for storytelling, emphasizing the importance of curiosity in storytelling. He reflects on his experiences working in the film industry, sharing insights on the collaborative nature of filmmaking and the significance of trusting one's instincts. Hanks highlights key moments in his career, including his breakthrough role in 'Splash' and the transformative experience of filming 'Cast Away'. He discusses the challenges of balancing commercial success with artistic integrity and the evolution of his approach to selecting roles.
Tom Hanks's Commitment to Authenticity and Moral Integrity in Acting
Tom Hanks delves into the essence of portraying characters with moral integrity, drawing parallels between his roles and real-life figures who exemplify courage and ethical principles. He emphasizes the importance of embodying truth and decency in his performances, showcasing individuals who face adversity with resilience and honor. Hanks explores the responsibility of artists to reflect human nature authentically and engage audiences in moral dilemmas through storytelling.
Tom Hanks on Embracing Challenges and Self-Reflection in His Craft
Tom Hanks shares anecdotes from his interactions with iconic figures like Joe DiMaggio and Nora Ephron, highlighting the dedication and discipline required in the craft of acting. He discusses the meticulous process of checking the 'gate' in filmmaking as a metaphor for striving for perfection and continuous growth in his work. Hanks reflects on his own desire to make each moment on screen meaningful and impactful, underscoring the ongoing pursuit of excellence in his artistic endeavors.
Tom Hanks's Optimism and Resilience Amidst Changing Times
Tom Hanks maintains a positive outlook on the societal challenges and shifts in the entertainment industry, emphasizing the enduring power of storytelling amidst turbulent times. He acknowledges the complexities of navigating cynicism and maintaining hope in an ever-changing world, remarking on the enduring influence of past works and the potential for transformative narratives to inspire introspection and empathy. Hanks's unwavering commitment to capturing the essence of the human experience through his performances reflects a deep-rooted belief in the transcendent nature of storytelling.
Tom Hanks's Reflection on Legacy and Artistic Journey
Tom Hanks contemplates the impact of his acting career on his legacy and creative evolution, acknowledging the significance of each role in shaping his artistic journey. He shares insights into the process of storytelling and the pursuit of authenticity and depth in his performances, emphasizing the transformative power of shared narratives. Hanks's dedication to his craft and commitment to ethical storytelling serve as a testament to his enduring legacy as an actor and storyteller.
Tom Hanks's Continuing Commitment to Artistic Excellence and Truth in Storytelling
Tom Hanks reaffirms his dedication to upholding artistic excellence and conveying truth through his storytelling, drawing inspiration from real-life figures who exemplify courage and moral resilience. He reflects on the challenges and joys of his acting career, underscoring the importance of authenticity and integrity in portraying diverse characters. Hanks's unwavering commitment to his craft and vivid storytelling demonstrates a profound belief in the power of narrative to illuminate the human experience.
Today, we're revisiting our special conversation with actor Tom Hanks.
We begin by discussing his debut novel, The Making of Another Major Motion Picture Masterpiece (5:58), his nomadic upbringing across California (13:28), and the Stanley Kubrick film that made him want to be an artist (19:40). Then, we talk about his early work at the Great Lakes Shakespeare Festival (24:00) and moving to Los Angeles for his television debut in Bosom Buddies (28:30), before pivoting to dramatic roles in films like Philadelphia and Forrest Gump (32:44).
On the back-half, Hanks describes the transformative, eight-year process of making Cast Away (39:00), receiving an AFI Lifetime Achievement award for his work at age forty-six (41:35), the vital performances that followed (42:40), and his insatiable desire to reflect the human experience (46:23).
To close, Hanks reflects on the kinship he found with Yankee hall of famer Joe DiMaggio (59:08), his formative friendships with actor Holland Taylor (52:30) and the late Nora Ephron (54:40), and the Cecil B. DeMille story he hopes to keep telling (55:50).
