Willem Dafoe on Playing a Poet in ‘Late Fame’ and Working With Robert Eggers and Yorgos Lanthimos: ‘If I Give Myself to a Director, I Want It to Burn Hot’
Willem Dafoe is in the midst of a massive year — and he’s playing a character whose life is small by design. In director Kent Jones’ “Late Fame” (out Aug. 7 in New York and Aug. 19 in Los Angeles and other cities), Dafoe plays Ed Saxberger, a postal employee who, in his youth, ha
Willem Dafoe's upcoming film "Late Fame" is a highly anticipated release, especially given the actor's current streak of critically acclaimed performances. The fact that he's playing a poet in this movie is particularly interesting, as it allows him to tap into his character's creative side and explore the intricacies of the human experience. Dafoe's willingness to take on complex, nuanced roles is a testament to his dedication to his craft, and his collaboration with director Kent Jones is likely to result in a thought-provoking and visually stunning film.
The fact that Dafoe has worked with a range of innovative directors, including Robert Eggers and Yorgos Lanthimos, speaks to his ability to adapt to different styles and visions. His comment about wanting his collaborations to "burn hot" suggests a deep passion for his work and a desire to push boundaries and take risks. This approach to acting is likely to resonate with audiences who appreciate bold, unconventional storytelling and are eager to see Dafoe's unique interpretation of his characters. As the film industry continues to evolve and prioritize unique, auteur-driven projects, Dafoe's commitment to working with visionary directors is a major part of his enduring appeal.
As "Late Fame" prepares to hit theaters, it will be interesting to see how audiences respond to Dafoe's portrayal of a poet and postal employee living a deliberately small life. The film's themes of creativity, identity, and the human condition are likely to spark important conversations and reflections, and Dafoe's performance is sure to be a major topic of discussion. With its limited release in New York and Los Angeles, "Late Fame" is poised to generate buzz and attract attention from film critics and enthusiasts, and it will be worth watching to see how the movie performs and what kind of impact it has on the cultural landscape.
Originally reported by variety.com. StyleNews adds analysis for culture, style & media readers.