Tim Blake Nelson Talks Upcoming Western ‘Shoot’ and ‘Captain America’: ‘I Couldn’t Respect Martin Scorsese More, but I Disagree When He Derides Marvel. It’s Not Over’

As I delve into the captivating words of this esteemed artist, I am struck by the depth and wisdom that emanates from his every utterance. His career, spanning across various genres and mediums, is a testament to the resilience and versatility of an artist who has dared to challenge the norms and defy expectations.


Actor Tim Blake Nelson will soon begin filming the highly-anticipated Western titled “Shoot,” which is set in Spain and is being directed by Guillermo Navarro. Notably, this is the same director of photography who worked with Guillermo del Toro, having previously won an Academy Award for their collaboration on “Pan’s Labyrinth.”

“Our production boasts an outstanding cast and a script penned by renowned British writer Ian Wilson. Over time, Westerns have evolved to mirror the societal climate during their creation. Each new generation contributes its unique perspective to film genres. This particular piece delves into the corrupting influence of power associated with firearms, as the creator discloses.”

“I’m genuinely excited about this contemporary screenplay, as it faithfully captures the essence of its era. Our production starts in November. What makes Westerns unique is that they demand expansive landscapes, yet compelling Westerns don’t necessarily break the bank. We’ve managed to create ‘Old Henry’ on a budget of just $1.2 million. It’s like crafting a superhero tale within the raw beauty of nature and without relying on visual effects.”

Visual effects can’t be avoided in “Captain America: Brave New World,” as it marks the return of actor Toby Jones as Samuel Sterns, a role he last played in 2008’s “The Incredible Hulk.”

“He was extremely saddened by the possibility of not returning to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. As an actor, his main desire was to discover the fate of this character. After 18 years, he finally had the chance, and he was not let down,” he expressed.

“I faced a significant test, skillfully navigated by the independent filmmaker, Julius Onah. True directors like him appreciate authentic performances from actors and provide chances to portray extraordinary roles. Marvel endorses such creative endeavors.”

Although some have suggested otherwise, Marvel might not be fading away as quickly as they claim, says Nelson. In other words, he advises against writing off Marvel just yet.

“Marvel’s success in movie history is unprecedented, with Kevin Feige and his team crafting numerous interconnected films within a single cinematic universe. There’s nothing comparable to this feat. Thus, I don’t believe Marvel’s dominance is waning,” he points out, labeling “Captain America” as the most realistic franchise in the MCU, similar to “Logan.”

“This is going to be a wonderful movie,” he insists. 

“I hold Martin Scorsese in the highest regard; he truly stands alone in his craft. However, I find myself at odds with him when he criticizes Marvel movies. While I believe Marvel films undeniably qualify as cinema, they transport us back to our childlike wonder. When they excel, and they frequently do, you become immersed within them. Are they profound? Do they compare to ‘Goodfellas,’ ‘Miller’s Crossing,’ or ‘Bicycle Thieves,’ ‘Schindler’s List,’ or Kieślowski films? No, but that’s not their intention. Instead, they aim to provide entertainment, and there is a form of artistry in them.”

“That’s my Marvel speech.” 

In the role of a juror at Locarno, Nelson is mindful of his independent film background and is showcasing the movie “Bang Bang,” an intimate drama, at the festival out of competition. This film, directed by Vincent Grashaw, portrays Nelson as retired boxer Bernard “Bang Bang” Rozyski, who is resolute in setting right past mistakes.

Randomix Productions, Traverse Media produce, with Red Barn Films co-producing. 

“This role required from me things no other had asked, encompassing both physical exertion and mental fortitude. In many ways, I can relate to being a fighter given my profession, but I’m not naturally confrontational. This character, however, is. He maintains a readiness for combat, which is something I needed to learn since I don’t have a boxing background. To prepare, I underwent rigorous training.”

After observing Daniel-Day Lewis on the set of “Lincoln,” he doesn’t mind preparing for roles. 

Working alongside Daniel significantly shifted my methodology in my work, and I’m far from exceptional in this respect – his presence naturally improves your skills. I found myself yearning to reprise the 17-year-old roles I previously played, laughing as I said it.

“I don’t maintain a consistent character throughout the day like he does because it would be tiresome for me. He excels in that aspect, while I do not. Yet, another talented actor, John C. Reilly, once shared with me that each role is a ‘custom-made’ opportunity. It involves finding a reliable process and being adaptable to change it based on the specific role.”

In “Bang Bang,” he delivers a soliloquy reminiscent of Marlon Brando’s iconic speech from “On the Waterfront.”

“I’m really fond of that particular scene. The character discusses, in a compelling manner, the events that led him to become the broken man he is. I must say, all the credit goes to Will Janowitz, the writer. It’s a speech that feels more like a heartfelt conversation than a formal address. What an impressive moment for an actor to portray.”

Over the course of his career, he got a couple of moments like that. 

He mentioned, “One was ‘O Brother, Where Art Thou?’ naturally. The other – ‘The Ballad of Buster Scruggs.’ When they invited me to return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe and when Damon Lindelof asked me to portray Looking Glass in ‘Watchmen’,” he reminisced.

In our profession as actors, we frequently face constraints due to our personal limitations and the public’s or industry’s perception of us. Roles that require goofiness, stupidity, or extreme behavior have often been assigned to me, while roles demanding restraint are seldom, if ever, offered. However, I recently received an opportunity to play a character embodying restraint. This individual only reveals what is necessary. I find this character as captivating as ‘Watchmen’ and Christopher Nolan’s ‘Batman’ films; they immerse you in their world, making it hard to imagine leaving.

He’s also readying to direct his next feature this year – his first since 2015’s “Anesthesia.” 

The pioneer of them all was Cassavetes, yet there’s now more acceptance for directors who are also actors. I initially hesitated to direct ‘O,’ as numerous teen Shakespeare adaptations were emerging, and I didn’t wish to contribute further, _for_ I adore Shakespeare. However, it wasn’t a comedy but a tragedy set in a high school, and instead of being unappealing, it presented an opportunity for me to express my views on the ongoing issue of gun violence in American schools.

A modern adaptation of “Othello, “O” featured Julia Stiles, Mekhi Phifer and Josh Hartnett.   

“The film resonated deeply, yet it resonated perhaps a bit too intensely. While we were finalizing it, the Columbine tragedy occurred. The movie was put on hold and released a year later. Shakespeare addressed antisemitism and racism in his works, issues that persist today, he remarks. However, films should not aim to satisfy everyone’s sensitivities. This remains true even in these challenging times when the future of independent cinema appears uncertain.”

As a long-time movie enthusiast who has witnessed the transformation of cinema over the years, I firmly believe that films should strive to tell compelling stories rather than aiming for popularity. In my opinion, a character like the one in ‘Bang Bang’ who borders on being unlikeable can actually add intrigue and suspense, making us eager to see what happens next.

“I’ve learned that there’s a strong interest in art house movies in the U.S., but it’s challenging for streaming platforms to generate revenue from them. One possible solution is that Apple, for instance, could separate independent films and recent discoveries into a distinct category within their platform. However, they have merged this into Apple TV+ now, which allows them to showcase their own content more prominently. Another idea is to enhance the arthouse cinema experience itself. Cinemas like Alamo Drafthouse, where my son [Henry Nelson] and I sold out a week with our movie ‘Asleep in My Palm,’ could be replicated in major American cities. Additionally, it’s crucial that I continue being part of excellent films while also creating them myself.”

Tim Blake Nelson Talks Upcoming Western ‘Shoot’ and ‘Captain America’: ‘I Couldn’t Respect Martin Scorsese More, but I Disagree When He Derides Marvel. It’s Not Over’

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2024-08-10 09:47