12/21/2014
My husband came across this really interesting article from yahoo about Hugh Jackman's preparation for Jean Valjean in Les Miserables.
"The prospect -- and reality -- of playing one of the most well-known characters in the history of musical theatre in a movie terrified Jackman, who has struggled with fear and anxiety throughout his film career. For guidance in dealing with the immense pressures of playing (and singing) Valjean, Jackman turned to self-help guru Tony Robbins.
"I said, 'I want some help. I got this job, and sometimes in front of the camera I can't feel as relaxed as on stage,'" said Jackman in a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter. "[Tony] said it's not about denying the character within you who feels nervous. That fear serves you to work hard. It's not about going, 'F**k you, I wish you weren't here, get out.' It's about embracing that. He goes: 'Man, you're playing Jean Valjean. You should be scared!'"
Robbins went further and suggested the actor give distinctive names to the secure and insecure sides to his personality.
"'Frank' was the more confident, and 'Charles' was the other," said Jackman. "Tony said, 'Charles is your sensitivity. Charles makes you question. Charles makes you work harder. When you walk on set, thank Charles for everything.'"
Jackman believes this approach was highly effective in helping him deal with his fear and even in getting rid of it. "Tony really transformed my life."
Here's the rest of the article.
Hugh Jackman, the theatrical star who's received acclaim for his performances in productions of "Oklahoma!" and "The Boy From Oz," certainly doesn't suffer from stage fright. However, would you believe that Hugh Jackman, the movie star who's received acclaim for … Continue reading →