Lex'Recap AI-generated recaps from the Lex Fridman podcast



Kevin Spacey: Power, Controversy, Betrayal, Truth & Love in Film and Life

Introduction

> I believe in the power of redemption and second chances. As I said, "I hope that people will give me the chance to have a relationship with them again."

> I strive to understand human beings at their best and at their worst, aiming for more compassion and wisdom in the world. "My goal is to always take the high road and be positive."

Seven

> I didn't initially get the role in "Se7en," but ended up being called last minute to take over as the serial killer. I had a gut feeling not to take billing in the film, to keep the killer's identity a surprise until later in the movie. David Fincher supported this unique idea of mine, making me the first credit at the end of the movie.

David Fincher

> The experience of shaving my head with David Fincher before shooting "Se7en" felt spontaneous and set the tone for my character's eerie presence. It was a quick process that helped build the character in a unique way.

> David Fincher's directing style of pushing for less in each scene, to just say the words and mean them, was a meticulous process that stripped away unnecessary layers, leading to a raw and impactful performance. It was about embodying confidence and simplicity in delivering the role, allowing the audience to truly connect with the character's depth and complexity.

Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman

> In that scene, working with Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman was just incredible. Brad's emotional journey and the moral dilemmas his character faced were intense, and not reacting to that power was a challenge. It was truly extraordinary to witness.

> David Fincher's approach of doing numerous takes, aiming for speed and naturalness, is about cutting away the unnecessary to keep the audience engaged. Stripping away the "bullshit" of acting to find the essence of being human is the goal.

Acting

> My job is to serve the writing. When people reference characters I've played as if they actually exist, that's when I feel like I've gotten close to doing my job.

> Characters that become real are like lifelong companions, whether they are the good, the bad, or the ugly.

> Working backwards in the creative process to evoke the same emotions in the audience as when I first read a script is crucial. Asking unexplored questions can be a catalyst for deeper thinking and new insights.

Improve

> Discovering through improv: "Where could a scene go if I didn't make that choice? Where would the scene go if I made this choice?" Improvisation in rehearsal helps explore limits and boundaries that aren't on the page, enriching the character's depth.

> Theater vs. film: "It's a different game every time you're out on that court or on that field. It's no different in theater." In theater, the live, evolving nature allows for continuous growth and improvement, unlike film where performances are frozen.

> Theater as a family: "Every single day when you show up in the rehearsal room, it's the whole company. You're all up for it every day." The bond created in theater, the trust, and the shared experience of growth and risk-taking build a unique family dynamic that is deeply cherished, even with the bittersweet farewell at the end of a production.

Al Pacino

> Improvisation can be useful, especially in comedy, but I value serving the written words in a script. Improv in film has its moments, like in "Glengarry Glen Ross" with Al Pacino, where improvisation added depth to a scene.

> Al Pacino's improvisation during a scene where he berates my character was intense. It was a generous act from him to push me emotionally in that moment, and that unscripted take ended up being the one used in the film.

Jack Lemmon

> One of my breakthrough moments was thanks to Al Pacino and Jack Lemmon, who served as mentors to me throughout my career. Jack Lemmon became a father figure to me, guiding me since I was 13 years old and encouraging me to pursue acting, which led to us working together multiple times.

> Meeting Jack Lemmon at a young age and having him believe in me shaped my entire career trajectory. Persistence and going out of my way to audition for roles, like in "Long Day's Journey Into Night," opened doors and allowed me to work with a legend like Jack Lemmon.

> Jack Lemmon's legacy lies in his ability to spread light and positivity, embodying his father's final words to him to "go out there and spread a little sunshine." His influence on me is profound, and I attribute much of my success to his mentorship and friendship.

American Beauty

> Sam Mendes brought a unique approach to directing "American Beauty," applying theatrical elements and focusing on gradual character evolution instead of sudden change.

> The film's exploration of finding oneself in a materialistic world resonated with viewers due to the honest portrayal of characters facing relatable struggles.

> The interaction between actors, like the contrast between Kevin Spacey and Annette Bening, plays a crucial role in creating powerful and memorable scenes.

> Through small details and subtle messages, "American Beauty" emphasizes the beauty in simplicity and the importance of taking the time to look closer at the world around us.

Mortality

> Death can be a scary thought, especially during tough times. I used to fear it, afraid of the unknown. But seeing others face it with acceptance and even beauty has shifted my perspective.

> Like Dick Van Dyke at 98, finding gratitude in each day, I am learning to embrace mortality as part of life, striving to resolve what matters most so that if my time were to come suddenly, it would have been a fulfilling journey.

Allegations

> It was a challenging time in my life when faced with false accusations that led to a public backlash, but I stood by due process, emphasizing my acquittal in trials. Acknowledging my past behavior, I admitted to crossing boundaries, learning from mistakes, and committing to never repeat those actions. Despite the turmoil, I've felt overwhelming support from those who believe in me, which has been a source of strength during this period. I've navigated complex dynamics in the industry, understanding the blurred lines of relationships and the impact of power dynamics on interactions. It's been essential for me to take accountability for my actions, seek forgiveness, and work towards personal growth and understanding.

House of Cards

> Becoming Frank Underwood was influenced by my experience in "Richard III" with direct address, where the character looks directly at each person, creating intimacy and a co-conspirator relationship with the audience.

> We aimed for one-take direct addresses to maintain intimacy and engage the audience in "House of Cards", cutting unnecessary dialogue to let the audience read between the lines and be drawn into the darkness of the character.

> The consistency and style Fincher established in the first two episodes of "House of Cards" set the tone for the series, creating a cinematic feel. However, the battle with execs ensued over creative control as Netflix evolved to give suggestions affecting the show's quality.

> In the industry, great films like "The Godfather" and daring directors like Kubrick inspire and challenge us, redefining what is possible in storytelling and character portrayal, making each viewing an opportunity to discover new layers and appreciate bold filmmaking choices.

Jack Nicholson

> "Portrayals like Hannibal Lecter in 'Silence of the Lambs' and 'The Shining' are up there in the greatest performances. Nicholson in 'The Shining' had no shame about being over the top, playing deeply flawed characters. He's interested in that."

> "Nicholson's unapologetically himself. His off-screen stories are as legendary as his on-screen moments. He's a character in every sense of the word, and I admire that authenticity."

Mike Nichols

> Mike Nichols played a pivotal role in my career, from understudying Harvey Keitel in "Hurlyburly" to getting me a role in my first film alongside Meryl Streep and Jack Nicholson.

> He pushed me out of my comfort zone by having me learn multiple roles on stage, teaching me the value of attitude and versatility in acting.

Christopher Walken

> One of the highlights from my conversation with Lex was about reflecting on Christopher Walken's unique and unapologetic nature in his acting, which always seems to work for various characters he plays.

> Another key point we explored was the idea that inhabiting different characters through acting teaches me immense empathy, emphasizing the importance of not judging the characters I portray but rather letting the audience form their own opinions.

Father

> Every day is an opportunity to learn and grow. I've had to reconcile the person my father became with who he was in the US Army. It's been a journey of forgiveness and understanding.

> The desire for less hate and more love stems from a childhood marked by a lack of affection and attention, leading to a search for understanding and connection.

Future

> My experience with "House of Cards" has shown me that politics can be a murky world, with some truth hidden beneath the surface and some aspects that are exaggerated for dramatic effect.

> I believe in the power of forgiveness and redemption, and I hope that people in the entertainment industry will eventually come to recognize that everyone deserves a second chance, just like in other walks of life.