Steve Buscemi on Crafting Iconic Supporting Roles
The veteran actor discusses his approach to scene-stealing performances in Martin McDonagh’s latest thriller.
1The Art of Supporting Roles
Steve Buscemi, a veteran actor with nearly a hundred credits, remains a master of the supporting role. In his latest project, Wild Horse Nine, he portrays MJ, a morally ambiguous boss. Buscemi explains that he approaches every character as if they are the lead, regardless of their total screen time.
2Collaborating with Martin McDonagh
Buscemi joined the cast of Wild Horse Nine specifically to work with director Martin McDonagh. Having met previously in Venice, Buscemi felt comfortable with the filmmaker's collaborative nature. Despite his extensive experience, he admits to feeling nervous about maintaining the high quality of the script alongside co-stars John Malkovich and Sam Rockwell.
3Dynamic with John Malkovich
Playing the boss to John Malkovich’s character required a specific mental shift for Buscemi. He noted that Malkovich is incredibly open and easy to work with, which removed any intimidation factor. This professional ease allowed them to push each other during their office scenes, creating a more authentic and lived-in dynamic.
4Filming on Easter Island
The production took place on Easter Island and in Santiago, Chile. Buscemi described the location as magical, noting that the environment informed the performances. Staying at the same resort as the cast fostered a sense of community, as there were no outside distractions, allowing everyone to focus entirely on the work.
5Research and Character Ambition
To prepare for his role as a CIA official, Buscemi read books on the agency, though he found the material disheartening. He concluded that his character was driven by ego and ambition. The elaborate costumes he wore helped him realize that MJ was a man who thought highly of himself, adding human depth.
6Evolution of Acting Process
Buscemi admits that his process has changed as he has aged. While he used to memorize lines quickly in his youth, he now finds that he must spend significantly more time studying the script. He emphasizes that the extra effort is necessary to ensure he delivers the best possible performance for audiences.
7Genre Versatility and Career
Throughout his career, Buscemi has avoided being typecast as an independent film actor. He has successfully transitioned between studio blockbusters, television series like Boardwalk Empire, and dark comedies. He feels fortunate to have explored various genres, which he believes makes him a more adaptable and well-rounded performer in the industry.
8The Influence of Mentorship
Buscemi credits his old friend Mark Boone Junior with teaching him the fundamentals of acting. During their early years, they wrote and performed their own theater pieces, which also served as his introduction to directing. He maintains that he would do anything for Boone, highlighting the importance of long-term industry friendships.
9Reconnecting with Former Co-stars
Buscemi recently reunited with John Turturro for the film The Only Living Pickpocket in New York. He expressed satisfaction in working with Turturro again, noting that they often see each other around New York. These professional reunions provide a sense of gratification that comes from years of shared history in the business.
10Reflecting on The Big Lebowski
Despite the cult status of The Big Lebowski, Buscemi notes that the cast did not spend much time together during production. However, a dinner years later with John Goodman and Jeff Bridges proved to be a highlight. He regrets not fostering those connections earlier, a mistake he avoided during recent shoots.
11The Importance of Preparation
Buscemi highlights a monologue at the end of Wild Horse Nine as a pivotal moment for his character. He spent considerable time perfecting the delivery to ensure it resonated with the story's themes. This dedication to specific scenes demonstrates why he remains a sought-after actor for complex, multi-dimensional supporting roles.
12Legacy of a Character Actor
Buscemi’s career trajectory proves that screen time is secondary to character impact. By focusing on the narrative importance of his roles rather than their size, he has created iconic performances across decades. His ability to remain humble and collaborative ensures he continues to be a vital presence in modern cinema today.
Original article: Men's Health — Steve Buscemi on Crafting Iconic Supporting Roles