Paul Dano Reflects on Kindness, Music, and His Acting Evolution
In a candid interview, acclaimed actor Paul Dano opens up about his diverse career, personal philosophy, and the projects that have shaped him. From his early days in high-school bands to his latest role in The Wizard of the Kremlin, Dano emphasizes the value of kindness and continuous learning in the intense world of film.
Singing with a Legend: The Brian Wilson Experience
Dano fondly recalls his time preparing for the role of Brian Wilson in Love & Mercy. "I spent a bunch of time with Brian before filming," he says. "If you asked him about the world, you might only get a little bit out of him. But if you asked about music, he’d light up." The actor even had the rare opportunity to sing with Wilson and his touring band, filming in the iconic studio where Pet Sounds was recorded. While he didn't receive direct feedback on his performance, the experience was about building a connection and understanding Wilson's life.
Challenges and Breakthroughs: From Silence to Screens
Reflecting on his role in Little Miss Sunshine, Dano discusses the unique challenge of playing a character who maintains a vow of silence. "The first few days, filming the dinner table scene where they’re eating chicken and I don’t speak, felt daunting," he admits. Directors initially pushed for more expression, but upon review, they recognized the subtlety of his performance. Dano notes that sometimes, the absence of words can be more demanding than delivering lines, highlighting the complexities of his craft.
Literary Inspirations and Personal Growth
Dano's preparation for the BBC adaptation of War and Peace involved diving into Leo Tolstoy's masterpiece. "I do think it’s probably the greatest book ever written," he asserts, praising its detailed passages and thought-provoking epilogue. Beyond literature, his roles have influenced his personal habits, such as in Okja and Fast Food Nation, which briefly altered his relationship with food. However, he credits age and parenthood with fostering a more mindful approach to health.
Unlearning and Staying Grounded in Hollywood
Starting his career on Broadway at age 10 or 11, Dano has always valued the process of learning and unlearning. "I’ve always wanted to stay in touch with my intuition – the part of me that isn’t thinking," he explains. Today, he prepares more thoroughly, using tools to maintain curiosity. When asked about staying kind in a competitive industry, Dano responds, "I appreciate being thought a kind person. I do think that matters." He believes empathy is key, even for darker characters like the Riddler, avoiding judgment to find their emotional core.
Music, Missed Opportunities, and Future Projects
While Dano jokes that "nobody needs to know about my high-school band," he acknowledges music's profound impact on his life. "Music gets into your veins faster than anything," he says, referencing a Walter Pater quote about art aspiring to music's condition. Though he once dreamed of rock stardom, acting became his focus due to the dedication required. Looking ahead, he was drawn to The Wizard of the Kremlin for its compelling take on modern politics and power. "It’s a story about a place that we don’t often see behind the curtain of," he notes, emphasizing its relevance and intelligence.
Advice to His Younger Self and Final Thoughts
If he could speak to his 10-year-old self, Dano would urge more fun and lightness. "I started working young and I was a fairly serious kid," he reflects, quoting Aldous Huxley on doing things lightly. Today, he enjoys his work and life more, valuing collaboration and friendship. As The Wizard of the Kremlin hits UK and Irish cinemas, Dano's journey serves as a testament to the power of kindness, continuous growth, and the art of finding joy in every role.
