There are times when people go beyond their limits to ace their work. This kind of dedication is indeed praiseworthy. Actor Denzel Washington also once made an iconic film of his time, which was also his debut as a director.
The story of a Navy sailor impressed him so much that he was determined to direct it. And to make the film perfect, Washington found out the real person who inspired his film. To honor the dedication and effort he has put into the film, he demanded a huge pay cut to work on the film.
Denzel Washington was paid a huge amount for his debut film as a director
Denzel Washington is an incredible actor who is known for giving some iconic performances throughout his acting career. The actor has not just established himself as a promising actor; he has also done some brilliant work as a director.
Earlier, the actor came across a very intriguing story, that inspired him to sit behind the camera and take up a director’s responsibility. Washinston’s first movie as a director was Antwone Fisher, whose story amazed him so much that he was determined to make it. During an interview, the actor reflected on what provoked him to follow the story. He said,
“I just couldn’t believe this story. I mean, it was such an amazing story. And then I got the opportunity to meet Antwone. I was hooked.”
Antwone is the man whose life inspired the film. After meeting him, Washington decided to take on his first directing project.
Washington put in all his efforts to make the film as good as he perceived it to be. Analyzing his efforts and dedication required for the film, the actor demanded more money than his usual fees to direct the film. The actor took a huge pay cut to work on the film, which cost $13 million overall.
He did not just direct the film; he also acted in it. During the same interview, the actor discussed how difficult it is to direct and act in a movie simultaneously.
Denzel Washington and his team members found the person who inspired the film
The story of Antwone Fisher is based on the story of a sailor who is sent to seek help from a psychiatrist because he often gets out of control. Later, it is revealed that his actions were the result of his past trauma, as he had been abused physically and sexually during his childhood. The film undoubtedly served an intriguing story to the audience; however, what’s more, interesting is to know how the real-life story got discovered by the filmmakers.
Fisher, on whom the story is based, left the Navy and took up a job as a security guard at Sony Pictures. Before anyone else, Fisher has seen his life more closely. Being inspired by his own story, he decided to write a story about his life, and with the help of a free screenwriting class in a church, he learned the technique to articulate his words. His impressive work eventually reached renowned producer Todd Black, who was moved by his life story. Inspired by his story, Black decided to make a film about it.
Source: abc News
