Richard Linklater and Ethan Hawke have collaborated on 11 films over the years, with their partnership being a key factor in their success. The two men met backstage at a play in 1993 and immediately hit it off, leading to their first film together, Before Sunrise. This chance encounter sparked a lifelong friendship and creative partnership that has produced some of the most critically acclaimed films of the past few decades.
One of their latest collaborations is Blue Moon, a period drama set in 1940s Broadway. Hawke plays Lorenz Hart, a jilted lyricist who was once Richard Rodgers' writing partner, while Linklater directs. The film marks a departure from previous collaborations, with Hawke taking on a more significant role and undergoing a dramatic physical transformation to play the character.
Hawke has spoken candidly about the challenges of playing a character that is so different from himself. He has said that it felt like he was "hitting the wall" of his talent, struggling to maintain his usual level of performance. Linklater reassures him that this is a normal part of the creative process, and that the end goal is always the same: making good art.
The two men have also talked about their experiences in the film industry, discussing the business side of things and how it can impact an actor's career. Hawke has noted that if he didn't have a successful career, he would be at a disadvantage when working with Linklater, who wouldn't get funding for his films.
Despite the challenges they face, both men remain passionate about their work and dedicated to making good art. They believe in the importance of collaboration and mutual respect, qualities that have helped them build a lasting partnership over the years.
Their conversation also touched on the topic of aging and how it can affect one's career. Hawke has spoken about losing idealism and curiosity as he gets older, but Linklater remains energetic and enthusiastic about his work. The two men seem to be in a symbiotic relationship, with each pushing the other to be their best selves.
As they sit in the luxurious hotel suite, surrounded by the trappings of their success, Hawke turns to me and says, "We're not like professional athletes, we don't lose a crucial step every year." Linklater nods in agreement, adding, "Film-makers aren't like athletes. We keep going, making art until it's over."
In this conversation, Linklater and Hawke have shared their insights on the creative process, the business side of the film industry, and the importance of collaboration and mutual respect. Their partnership is a testament to the power of creativity and friendship, and their latest collaboration, Blue Moon, is a reminder that even at old age, they remain committed to making good art.
One of their latest collaborations is Blue Moon, a period drama set in 1940s Broadway. Hawke plays Lorenz Hart, a jilted lyricist who was once Richard Rodgers' writing partner, while Linklater directs. The film marks a departure from previous collaborations, with Hawke taking on a more significant role and undergoing a dramatic physical transformation to play the character.
Hawke has spoken candidly about the challenges of playing a character that is so different from himself. He has said that it felt like he was "hitting the wall" of his talent, struggling to maintain his usual level of performance. Linklater reassures him that this is a normal part of the creative process, and that the end goal is always the same: making good art.
The two men have also talked about their experiences in the film industry, discussing the business side of things and how it can impact an actor's career. Hawke has noted that if he didn't have a successful career, he would be at a disadvantage when working with Linklater, who wouldn't get funding for his films.
Despite the challenges they face, both men remain passionate about their work and dedicated to making good art. They believe in the importance of collaboration and mutual respect, qualities that have helped them build a lasting partnership over the years.
Their conversation also touched on the topic of aging and how it can affect one's career. Hawke has spoken about losing idealism and curiosity as he gets older, but Linklater remains energetic and enthusiastic about his work. The two men seem to be in a symbiotic relationship, with each pushing the other to be their best selves.
As they sit in the luxurious hotel suite, surrounded by the trappings of their success, Hawke turns to me and says, "We're not like professional athletes, we don't lose a crucial step every year." Linklater nods in agreement, adding, "Film-makers aren't like athletes. We keep going, making art until it's over."
In this conversation, Linklater and Hawke have shared their insights on the creative process, the business side of the film industry, and the importance of collaboration and mutual respect. Their partnership is a testament to the power of creativity and friendship, and their latest collaboration, Blue Moon, is a reminder that even at old age, they remain committed to making good art.
I mean, who else could make a 1940s period drama about a jilted lyricist so interesting? Hawke's physical transformation is insane, he looks almost unrecognizable 
. And I love how they're still pushing each other to be their best selves, even after all these years. It's like they're saying, "Hey, we're not done yet, let's keep making art!" 
! I mean, can you believe it? They've worked together for like 11 films and it just gets better & better!!! 
I love how they push each other to be their best selves, like they're constantly fueling that creative fire 
. Hawke's transformation into Lorenz Hart is insane 
! He had to totally reinvent himself, you know? But the end result is so worth it. Their passion & dedication to making good art is just infectious 
. I'm already counting down until Blue Moon hits theaters, can't wait to see what they've got in store for us 
. What I find fascinating is how their collaboration has evolved over the years, with Hawke taking on more significant roles and undergoing physical transformations to play characters vastly different from himself 
.
. As we age, our priorities shift, and it's natural to lose some of that idealism and curiosity 
. Their willingness to have open conversations about these topics is refreshing and shows that even the most successful creatives can appreciate a good chat 
. Bring on Blue Moon - I'm excited to see what they've created together!
. But seriously, Richard Linklater and Ethan Hawke are proof that collaboration and respect can take your work to the next level. They're not like those professional athletes who just keep going and going, they actually make art for the sake of making art 
! It's amazing how well they work together, don't you think? They're like two peas in a pod, always pushing each other to create something special. I love how Hawke has been willing to take on new challenges and transform his body for the role – it's not always easy to step out of your comfort zone, but it's totally worth it. And what really warms my heart is that they're still so passionate about their craft, even after all these years together 
. It's a beautiful reminder that collaboration, respect, and creativity can lead to some truly magical things 
. It's kinda cool how they push each other to be better, though.
. We need some serious platform updates, fam 
. Maybe something with more meaningful discussions and less focus on drama 
.
I mean, I love a good musical, but can't we do something new and exciting for once? 
It's not always easy in this industry, but when you've got a partnership like theirs, it makes all the difference 
It shows that as long as you've got the passion & dedication, creativity can thrive regardless of age or anything else 
i love how these two are still pushing each other to make art till it's over 
