The Next Best Picture Podcast Interview With "The Choral" Star Ralph Fiennes & Director Nicholas Hytner
Dec 25, 2025
Ralph Fiennes, an accomplished English actor, shares insights on portraying a conductor in his latest film, The Choral. He discusses his musical preparation and the unique challenges of embodying such a role. Director Nicholas Hytner reflects on the importance of community music-making and the relationship between director and actor. Together, they explore how the film’s themes resonate with today’s audiences, emphasizing participation and collaboration. Their passion for music and storytelling makes for a captivating conversation!
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Early Acting Sparked By Audience Connection
- Ralph Fiennes recalled discovering acting through Shakespeare and drama school, which taught him the necessity of connecting with an audience.
- He described theatre's iterative rehearsal process as essential to finding performances that survive repetition.
Stopping Lunchtime Crowds With A Brass Band
- Nicholas Hytner shared memories of singing in choirs and playing in wind and brass bands as a youth.
- He remembered stopping crowds in Manchester with a school brass band lunchtime concert, feeling the group's power to make people listen.
Theatre Demands Rehearsal, Film Needs Trust
- Nicholas Hytner contrasted theatre and film rehearsal approaches and emphasized trust in actors for film.
- He argued theatre requires exhaustive rehearsal, while film captures truthful spontaneity when the director trusts the actor.