To be a celebrated veteran actor in Hollywood with decades of service requires a great deal of patience, hard work, and experience. Well, to be precise, Denzel Washington is the epitome of such an actor, with a well-appreciated career in Hollywood. Often known for his illustrious filmography and method acting skills, the actor revealed a secret tip, from behind the scenes.
Discussing his technique of embodying a character, Denzel Washington spoke about certain measures he takes to deliver authenticity through his acting. Even if it takes him to get physically assaulted for a certain role, he doesn’t step back. Claiming to get slapped by his wife to open up his tear ducts, Washington shared bizarre secrets.
Denzel Washington Discusses His Stagecraft
With more than sixty films, two Oscars, and several other awards under his belt, Denzel Washington gets universally regarded as one of the finest Hollywood actors of all time. Further setting foot in the realm of directors, the 68-year-old sat to discuss his stagecraft, after getting recognition for his directorial efforts.
“I prefer not being in the films…I enjoy being a more behind-the-scenes kind of guy” Washington shared. Taking a great deal of inspiration from other actors and directors throughout his career in Hollywood, Denzel Washington mentioned learning his craft from the best.
“I’m learning how to do it, so I’m interested in learning from the best. So, I’ve been talking to the best.”
Often known for his method acting skills, Washington discussed working with several great actors and picking up their natural talent. But even his wife had a role to play in his successful career. Married to fellow actress Pauletta for more than 40 years, Washington discussed how often his wife has helped him with certain scenes and bring out the authenticity in them.
Denzel Washington’s Extreme Measures To Cry
Sitting for an interview with Variety, Denzel Washington discussed how his wife Pauletta Washington has been by his side, helping him throughout his career. Revealing the extreme measures he takes due to his technique of method acting, the 68-year-old revealed getting physically assaulted by his wife for a scene.
Revealing how he performs crying scenes in movies, Denzel Washington claimed, “My wife stands off camera and she slaps the taste out of my mouth right on action.” No matter how bizarre it might sound, it actually helps the actor perform authentically.
Further discussing the process, Washington stated, “They say ‘rolling’ and she starts winding up, speed camera.” Breaking up the steps that go on behind the camera, in order to bring out real tears, Washington shared a giggle at his wife’s expense.
“I lift my chin like that and action [POW]. She slaps me I tear!”
Denzel Washington gladly discussed the measures he takes to bring out real tears while shooting. Claiming how his wife had no problem standing up and helping him open his watergates, the actor praised his wife for her attempts.
