Denzel Washington Discusses His Identity Beyond Hollywood
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Synopsis
Denzel Washington, in a recent interview, identifies more as a stage actor than a Hollywood star. He expresses his views on film, his career trajectory, and his reluctance to watch his past performances, highlighting the differences between stage and film acting.
Key Takeaways
- Denzel Washington identifies as a stage actor.
- He questions the definition of a Hollywood actor.
- Washington prefers stage acting over film.
- He rarely watches his past films.
- He reflects on his career journey and learning process.
Los Angeles, March 24 (NationPress) Acclaimed star Denzel Washington has articulated his perspective by identifying as "a stage actor" who engages in "films".
In an interview on 'CBS Sunday Morning', Washington remarked: "What’s the definition of a Hollywood actor? I’m from Mount Vernon, so I consider myself a ‘Mount Vernon actor.’ I’m not sure what ‘Hollywood’ signifies."
He elaborated, stating: "I view myself primarily as a stage actor who happens to work in film."
The seasoned actor further explained: "It’s not the reverse. I started with stage performances. My acting foundation was built on the stage rather than in film. Movies belong to the filmmaker’s realm. You capture the scenes, and then you’re out of the picture while they edit, add music, and all that. Theatre, however, is an actor’s domain. When the curtain rises, you’re all alone."
Additionally, Washington previously mentioned that he refrains from watching his older films "from beginning to end", as reported by femalefirst.co.uk.
This celebrated actor has appeared in numerous blockbuster films throughout his career, such as 'Gladiator II' and 'Training Day', among others.
Despite this, he expresses little enjoyment in viewing his performances on screen.
He shared with The Times newspaper: "I view it so I can discuss it knowledgeably. However, I have not watched any of my previous films in their entirety, not even 'Malcolm X'. All I notice are my mistakes. Besides, what’s the point?"
Washington played the role in 'Malcolm X' back in 1992, but he admitted to having produced "some real clunkers" in the years that followed.
He commented: "In life, you learn, earn, and then you give back. So if your lifespan is 90 years, you learn until age 30, and from 30 to 60, you earn."
"During that period, I was focused on earning. With a great agent, my career progressed to monetary success, and then life’s responsibilities emerged, including bills, four children, and a home… After 'Malcolm X', I made some real clunkers. Look them up - I won’t disclose their titles."
