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Tackling Shocking Scenes: A New Facet of His Acting

—What were your thoughts when you first read the novel?

I was utterly shocked; I found it to be an intense work. It's like a young man's journey, with detours, regressions, and plunges into darkness. I couldn't grasp what was happening or what the story was about until the very end. But the film's conclusion was shocking, it completely overwhelmed me.

—How did you approach preparing for the role?

The most challenging part was capturing the feel of the era and the location. I studied Florida in 1969, even the accents of the time. But Director Lee simply told me, 'Come with an open mind' and 'Leave your ego at the door.'



—What is Director Lee Daniels like?

He inspired me and gave me energy. He also created an environment where actors could perform comfortably. He has no ego and is always joking around. He strives to make us relax; I think he's a selfless and loving person. I'm honored to have worked with him. Lee has an eye for the essential, which is why the characters feel so real. He's also skilled at building relationships; you can connect with him just by talking. He possesses great insight and understands people well. And Lee doesn't hesitate to take on challenges. If he doesn't like a scene, he lets it go. 'Let's improvise here,' he'll say.


—This story is packed with various elements. What were your initial thoughts when you first read the script?

It's filled with so many elements that it's hard to grasp them all. When I first read the script, I didn't quite understand it, but it's very exploratory and delves deeply into the characters. It doesn't limit itself to one theme; it poses many questions and raises many doubts. In that sense, I think it's a thought-provoking and stimulating film.







—Were you nervous about the love scene with Nicole Kidman?

Love scenes are always nerve-wracking, I think not just for the actors but for the crew too. But once filming starts, it's like any other scene. And it was easy; I just had to kiss Nicole.

—What is the relationship between Jack, whom you play, and his brother Ward, played by Matthew McConaughey?

The relationship between Ward and Jack might seem a bit complicated. They are brothers who were separated and have an emotional reunion after a long time. I thought they had a good relationship, one where they could boast to each other. But Lee said, 'That's not the relationship.' Jack must feel some confusion towards his brother who suddenly returned. What makes this film special is that each relationship is so realistic; light and fun scenes lead into dark ones, revealing the darkness. The film is firmly rooted in reality.



—This role was a departure from your previous image. You've likely grown as an actor; what are your thoughts on playing this part?

It was a wonderful experience, like a dream. Creative people gathered on set, engrossed in achieving a common goal. My co-stars and Director Lee were amazing; everyone was top-notch. And the film's major theme is about growing up. Jack learns life lessons from the people important to him. I still have things I don't understand myself, and I haven't fully grasped acting... I felt supported by my co-stars during this shoot.


'Paperboy'
Now playing Saturday, July 27th at Shinjuku Musashinokan, Human Trust Cinema Yurakucho, and other theaters nationwide.
Directed and Written by Lee Daniels
Starring Zac Efron, Nicole Kidman, Matthew McConaughey, John Cusack
Distributed by Nikkatsu
2012 / USA / 107 min / R15+
© 2012 PAPERBOY PRODUCTIONS, INC.