Amy Irving, Academy Award-nominated star, joins for a lively conversation about her career, YENTL gossip, and Ben's buried jeans. They also discuss regrettable movie choices, working with female directors, a famous twist ending, relationship dynamics, attending awards ceremonies, and admiration for Pierce Brosnan.
Barbara Streisand's vision and personal appeal convinced the interviewee to overcome their hesitations and join the film Yentl, highlighting Streisand's influence and attention to detail.
The interviewee remembers the shock value and impact of the twist ending in the film Carrie, expressing admiration for Mandy Patinkin's growth as an actor despite his emotional struggles.
Amusing anecdotes showcase Barbara Streisand's meticulous approach and willingness to accommodate requests, emphasizing her determination and ability to get what she wants.
Deep dives
The Making of Yentl
Barbara Streisand passionately discussed her dream of making Yentl and asked the interviewee to be a part of it. The interviewee was initially hesitant due to feeling unsatisfied with previous film roles. However, Streisand's vision and personal appeal made it impossible to say no. Streisand guided the interviewee through the role, providing clear direction and attention to detail. The interviewee reflects on Streisand's expertise in making actors look incredible on camera and her commitment to achieving the desired performances. Despite initial doubts, the interviewee recognizes the success of Yentl and Streisand's invaluable influence on the film.
Behind the Scenes of Carrie
The interviewee shares their experience of working on the film Carrie. They recall the shock value of the twist ending involving the hand coming out of the rubble. Initially, the interviewee was not convinced that the scene would be effective, but watching it with an audience confirmed its impact. The interviewee also discusses their relationship with Mandy Patinkin, who was going through a challenging time during the production. The interviewee recounts conversations with Patinkin and how he struggled to control his emotions. Despite difficulties, the interviewee expresses admiration for Patinkin's talent and growth as an actor over the years.
Anecdotes from the Set
The interviewee shares amusing anecdotes about their collaboration with Barbara Streisand. They discuss Streisand's belief that she played a role in reuniting the interviewee with their husband and even taking credit for their pregnancy. The interviewee also recalls Streisand's attention to detail and her willingness to accommodate their requests. In one instance, Streisand arranged for a massage therapist to work on the interviewee every night of the shoot in Czechoslovakia. The interviewee concludes by highlighting Streisand's determination and ability to get what she wants.
Memorable movies and working with Barbara
Amy Irving reflects on her experiences in the film industry, including working alongside Barbara Streisand. She discusses how Streisand's meticulous approach to filmmaking and her ability to surround herself with talented professionals made for a supportive and creative environment. Irving shares anecdotes about her roles in films like Yentl and Mickey and Maud, highlighting the unique experiences and challenges she faced. While noting a slight falling out with Streisand, Irving maintains admiration for the director's work and expresses interest in sending her a fan letter for her recent book.
The joys of singing and pursuing music
Having embarked on a new musical career, Amy Irving talks about her collaboration with the band Goulis and their album production. She reflects on the experience of recording two albums, one with personal songs that shape her life story, and another covering Willie Nelson's songs. Irving also discusses her live performances, including a concert at City Winery, and expresses her passion for singing, emphasizing that it is her current focus and main interest moving forward.
Surprise! In a first for Blank Check, we're dropping a bonus main-feed episode featuring a conversation with an Academy Award-nominated star of the film we just covered. The great Amy Irving joins us for a fun conversation about her career highs and lows, the behind-the-scenes YENTL gossip, and Ben's buried jeans. That's right, we have to explain Ben's denim thing to Amy Irving.