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Brothers Celebrates Legacy of Character Acting

The new Prime Video release, Brothers, showcases a vibrant mix of comedic talent without the burden of serious tones. Starring Josh Brolin and Peter Dinklage as twin brothers involved in a criminal endeavor after one of them emerges from prison, the film also features notable performances by Brendan Fraser, Glenn Close, Marisa Tomei, Jennifer Landon, and the legendary M. Emmet Walsh, who sadly passed away on March 20, 2024. In a recent interview, Brolin and Dinklage shared their reflections on working alongside Walsh during his final performance.

Brolin reminisced about the experience, noting, “There were a couple of scenes where he needed his lines delivered to him. This is something that occasionally happens with younger performers. But when we shot the scene in his office, he was as sharp as anyone in the cast. He was amazing.” He continued, expressing admiration for Walsh’s dedication, adding, “It’s remarkable to see someone of his age still exhibiting such passion. This is an old-school mentality. In contrast, new actors often express a desire to be famous rather than focusing on the craft. Walsh was the epitome of being all in for the art of acting.”

Understanding Character Actors: Insights from Peter Dinklage

Peter Dinklage, who joined Brolin during the interview, expressed his affection for character actors. “I think of the greats—character actors like Harry Dean Stanton and M. Emmet Walsh. The term ‘character actor’ can sometimes feel dismissive, even though those actors are incredibly talented.” In a light-hearted debate, Dinklage and Brolin pondered if iconic figures such as Al Pacino could be considered character actors, and the nuances of whether a character actor can also carry the lead in a film.

One timeless maxim from Konstantin Stanislavski resonates here: “There are no small parts, only small actors.” This often rings true, as minor roles can leave a significant impact. Numerous actors have secured Oscars for performances in very brief roles, such as Beatrice Straight, who won for her less-than-six-minute appearance in Network. Gloria Grahame and Anthony Quinn also gained accolades for performances that lasted under ten minutes. Even Anthony Hopkins, forever linked with Silence of the Lambs, appeared onscreen for just 16 minutes.

Turning back to M. Emmet Walsh, his work exemplifies the notion that character actors can create unforgettable moments. In the film Blood Simple, while Frances McDormand made her debut, it is Walsh’s performance that remains etched in viewers’ memories. Regardless of the labels applied, Walsh’s legacy as one of the industry’s greats is undeniable.

Source
movieweb.com