Tag: Ridley Scott

Ridley Scott Praises Paul Mescal as a Sympathetic Actor in “Gladiator II” – In Cinemas December 4!

Visionary director Ridley Scott has long been known for his ability to cast actors who leave indelible marks on audiences. For Gladiator II, the stakes were higher than ever. How do you follow up the Oscar-winning original? Enter Paul Mescal, the breakout star from Normal People, who Scott describes as “a very sound, solid, sympathetic actor.”

Scott first noticed Mescal for his quiet intensity and likened him to acting greats like Richard Harris and Albert Finney. “He seemed a very sound, solid, and sympathetic actor. As this story in the script started to evolve, I kept thinking about him. I knew that he was a very good theater actor, which to me is a plus. Theater actors keep me honest. I tend to be very visual and move like lightning. They like to know about the story and the characters between each take.”

A Star in the Making

Playing Lucius, the son of Maximus (Russell Crowe’s iconic character from the original), Mescal had to balance emotional depth with physical ferocity. Producer Douglas Wick says the decision to cast him was a “leap of faith.” Mescal’s transformation from the sensitive lead of Normal People to a commanding gladiator wasn’t an obvious choice. But as Wick notes, “That meant we either had to find a new star or make one. It was an incredible risk on a big movie to choose an actor who’s never carried one. And our protagonist also had to be credible as an action hero. Ridley, the producers and the studio all held hands with Mescal and jumped off a cliff. We would soon discover that Paul is one of those once-in-a-generation talents who always lands on his feet.”

From Rugby to Rome

Mescal’s athletic background was another asset. Producer Lucy Fisher recalls how they asked Mescal if he had any sports experience. His answer? Irish rugby, a sport demanding grit and resilience. “were all wowed by Paul’s talent.” But they first had to check one very important thing: if Mescal played any physical sport that could help him with his journey of becoming a gladiator for the film. “We had to sheepishly ask if he had ever played any sports, hoping to see a sign that he could play a gladiator,” Fisher recalls. “When he replied ‘Irish rugby,’ which we know demands toughness and more than a little lunacy, we knew we had our man. Some might say it was a gamble, but Paul has such wisdom and depth as an actor and such clarity as a human being that it never felt like a risk. Plus, the camera loves him, as did everyone who worked with him.”

Rigorous Preparation

Transforming into Lucius wasn’t just about looking the part. Mescal dove into intensive training with Tim Blakeley of Media Physiques, perfecting swordsmanship and enduring grueling workouts. Mescal describes the preparation as pivotal: “There were all kinds of practical elements,” he says. “I was going to the gym, weight training, running, eating a certain way, all of these things. The training was something I could grab onto with both hands during prep. Ridley’s only interest is the talent for which he hired us. You’ve got to just step into it.”

A Career-Defining Role

At just 28, Mescal’s resume is already dazzling: an Olivier Award for A Streetcar Named Desire and an Oscar nomination for Aftersun. But starring in a Ridley Scott epic? “pinch-me moment.” “Ridley Scott’s a king in cinema and especially this genre,” the actor says. “When Ridley comes knocking, you just say yes. It’s definitely been a career highlight for me to watch the way the master’s brain works. And he was incredibly generous about sharing his knowledge and talent with me.”

As Mescal reflects on the legacy of Gladiator, he acknowledges the gravity of the role: “It holds a huge amount of weight for a vast number of people across the world. And the scale of it is huge. It’s not like any other role I’ve played. Going from independent features to a blockbuster studio picture was intimidating until I realized that acting is acting is acting, regardless of the context.”

Experience the epic journey in Gladiator II, opening in cinemas on December 4. Stay connected: use the hashtag #GladiatorII and tag @paramountpicsph to join the conversation.

_{Photo & Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures”}

December 3, 2024
Building Rome Again: Ridley Scott and Team Recreate Ancient Splendor in “Gladiator II”

Legendary director Ridley Scott is bringing audiences back to the heart of ancient Rome with Gladiator II, his most ambitious project yet. Collaborating with long-time production designer Arthur Max, this sequel promises a cinematic experience of epic proportions. The dynamic duo, who previously partnered on Gladiator, The Martian, American Gangster, and Napoleon, have outdone themselves, crafting a spectacle that redefines scale and authenticity.

“Gladiator on Steroids”

“Everything is much bigger and more elaborate than anything we’ve done before,” says Max, who oversaw the design and build of ancient Rome for the movie. “It’s Gladiator on steroids. Ridley’s approach to making a film is always immersive. He’s involved in every phase, every department. It can be a challenge working with him, because he expects so much. And I love a challenge.”

The sequel’s massive scope took production across Morocco, Malta, and Shepperton Studios in London. Producer Lucy Fisher describes the enormity:

“The scope was overwhelming. In Morocco, there were over 80-something huge tents dedicated just for the extras’ hair and makeup, and to house countless props and costumes. In Malta, we assembled the Arena, the palace and whole blocks of ancient Rome. There was a life size statue of Pedro Pascal on his horse. In a world of green screen and AI, this might be the last great build in movies. And we all felt privileged as we walked the streets of this lost world.”

A Set to Rival History

Spanning nearly eight kilometers, the recreated ancient city is brimming with meticulous details. Max’s designs combine traditional craftsmanship with advanced technology, creating a visually stunning Rome. From an enlarged replica of the Colosseum to a grand city entry arch adorned with Romulus and Remus motifs, the artistry behind the sets rivals that of historical Rome itself.

One jaw-dropping element is the Colosseum set. Built at one-third the height and spanning about a quarter of the original structure, its foundation was elevated to allow for scenes involving water. “We knew we had to fill it with water,” says Max. “So we raised the foundation up about five feet so we could still see what we wanted above the water line when we flooded it digitally. We also enlarged the entry arch, so we could bring the ships in through the gates. We gave it a little bit of a boost from the bottom up, but you will recognize it when you watch the film.”

The Magic of Multitudes

Bringing Rome to life meant assembling over 500 extras to crowd the Colosseum—a number augmented digitally for the amphitheater’s grand scenes. Scott’s signature filming techniques, including simultaneous action and multi-camera setups (up to 12 cameras per scene), ensured that the chaos of ancient Rome felt authentic.

Each scene, he says, is directed like a play, with simultaneous action taking place all over the set. “You have to know exactly where to place the cameras,” explains the director. “I can do that because I’ve storyboarded it all in advance. For even the best camera operator it can be hell. I don’t rehearse with the actors, but I do rehearse with the camera operators, and I dress them in costume on the set because they could end up in a scene.”

A Must-Watch Event

With unparalleled attention to detail and a dedication to practical effects, Gladiator II may mark the last great cinematic build of its kind. Witness the grandeur when it premieres in cinemas on December 4.

Stay connected with #GladiatorII and follow @paramountpicsph for exclusive updates.

_{Photo & Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures”}

November 27, 2024
A Cinematic Triumph – Ridley Scott’s “Napoleon” Dominates Global Box Office

Director Ridley Scott’s latest masterpiece, “Napoleon,” has emerged as an undisputed champion at the box office. This action-packed historical epic, graced by the talents of Joaquin Phoenix and Vanessa Kirby, has garnered a massive $78.8 million globally in its opening weekend. This includes an impressive $46.3 million from international markets, firmly establishing its worldwide appeal.

Joaquin Phoenix, director Ridley Scott and Vanessa Kirby at the London premiere of Napoleon on November 16. A few days later, the film opened at the top of the UK box office.

Stellar Performances and Strategic Releases

Phoenix’s portrayal of the renowned French emperor and Kirby as his wife Josephine has resonated with audiences across the globe. The film’s strategic debut in countries like France, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Italy has propelled it to the top spot in these regions. Anticipation is high in Asia, particularly in the Philippines, where the film is set to release on November 29.

A Director’s Vision: Bridging History and Art

Ridley Scott, known for his visionary filmmaking, brings a unique perspective to the historical figure of Napoleon. “History’s very interesting, because we don’t learn from all of our mistakes,” remarks Scott. The film is more than just a historical recount; it’s a portrayal of Napoleon’s tumultuous journey to power and his intense relationship with Josephine. It’s a blend of personal drama and grand-scale military tactics, brought to life through some of the most elaborate battle scenes ever captured on film.

Joaquin Phoenix and director Ridley Scott at the Madrid premiere of Napoleon on November 20.

Critics Acclaim: A Spectacular Display of Filmmaking

The New York Times has praised the film’s battle sequences as ““The war scenes are extraordinary, vigorous, harrowing and rightly grotesque.” The sheer scale, coupled with Scott’s intricate staging using a multitude of actors and horses, adds a raw, visceral power to these scenes, making them a cinematic spectacle.

Joaquin Phoenix, director Ridley Scott and Vanessa Kirby at the Paris premiere of Napoleon on November 14. The film would go on to debut at No. 1 in France.

Distribution and Anticipation in the Philippines

Produced by Apple Original Films and distributed locally by Columbia Pictures, a division of Sony Pictures Releasing International, “Napoleon” is all set to captivate Philippine audiences. The film’s imminent release is generating significant buzz, as fans eagerly await its arrival in theaters on November 29. Join the conversation online with the hashtag #Napoleon and be part of this cinematic event.

_{Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”}

November 28, 2023
Joaquin Phoenix Unveils the Intricacies of ‘Napoleon’ in Ridley Scott’s Latest Epic

Ridley Scott’s latest cinematic venture, “Napoleon,” brings back Academy Award® winner Joaquin Phoenix, not as the infamous Joker, but as the legendary French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. Scott, reminiscing their time on “Gladiator,” instantly recognized Phoenix as the ideal fit for this intricate role. “I saw him and it all came flooding back – how we worked on Gladiator, and what journey he went on with that character, and I thought, ‘God damn, there’s Napoleon.’” Scott shares.

Unearthing the Layers: Phoenix’s Discovery of Napoleon

Phoenix, initially unfamiliar with the depths of Napoleon’s persona, admits to being captivated by the complexities he unearthed. “I found him to be a much more complex person than I initially imagined, especially the dynamic between him and Josephine,” says the actor who plays Napoleon. “I found him mysterious, and that mystery is something that is always interesting to explore.” Phoenix reveals, delving into the enigmatic character of the Emperor. This intriguing mystery became a cornerstone in Phoenix’s portrayal.

Behind the Scenes: The Director-Actor Synergy

Producer Mark Huffam highlights the unique bond between Scott and Phoenix, a synergy that transcends mere collaboration. “Ridley and Joaquin like to challenge each other on a regular basis, but it’s always done with a smile,” says Huffam. “Joaquin had his concerns about taking on the role, and I think anybody would about this character. But thanks to conversations with Ridley, he got comfortable with it quite quickly and he is fantastic.”

For Scott, rekindling this partnership was nothing short of exhilarating. “He’s the only actor where we talk for weeks beforehand, just chatting and arguing in an office over aspects of the character. At the end, we are on the same page,” says the director. “He’s good for me, because he keeps me honest, and I’m good for him, because I keep him in line. Physically, he’s perfect for the role – some of his facial features are strikingly similar to Napoleon’s,” Scott remarks.

The Art of Spontaneity: Phoenix’s Approach to Character Building

Phoenix credits Scott’s meticulous groundwork for granting him the artistic liberty to explore and embody Napoleon on set. ““What I like is not having it all figured out in my head beforehand – I like to have several possibilities to play with on the day,” explains Phoenix. “Ridley not only allows that process, he encourages it – he wants you to move as freely as the character would.”

About “Napoleon”

The film, directed by Ridley Scott, is a visually stunning action epic depicting Napoleon Bonaparte’s tumultuous rise and fall. Phoenix’s portrayal of Bonaparte is complemented by Vanessa Kirby’s depiction of Josephine, his great love. Set against the backdrop of monumental battle scenes and political intrigue, the film is a testament to Scott’s mastery in large-scale filmmaking.

Scripted by David Scarpa and produced by Ridley Scott, Kevin J. Walsh, Mark Huffam, and Joaquin Phoenix, “Napoleon” is a testament to historical storytelling infused with modern cinematic techniques.

Starring Joaquin Phoenix and Vanessa Kirby, “Napoleon” is set to premiere in cinemas on November 29, exclusively distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, a division of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Engage with the film using the hashtag #Napoleon.

_{Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”}

November 21, 2023
Ridley Scott’s “Napoleon”: Joaquin Phoenix Rises in Latest Trailer

Heads up, film fanatics! A battle-scarred spectacle is storming the silver screen. Say hello to Ridley Scott’s latest masterpiece, Napoleon, with the magnetic Joaquin Phoenix leading the charge!

Joaquin Takes The Throne

Joaquin Phoenix is back, and dare I say…more powerful than ever? Ridley Scott’s new trailer for Napoleon just dropped, and it’s a feast for the eyes. Paired alongside the equally captivating Vanessa Kirby as Josephine, this one’s gonna be a cinematic ride. Mark the date – November 29. And it’s hitting IMAX too.

A Glimpse Into Napoleon

From battlegrounds to palace intrigues, Napoleon takes you on an exhilarating journey through the life of the legendary French Emperor – Napoleon Bonaparte. And who better than Oscar® maestro Joaquin Phoenix to breathe life into such an enigmatic character? The film’s essence? It’s Napoleon’s insatiable hunger for power, intertwined with his tempestuous romance with Josephine, set against mind-blowing battle sequences that will make you grip your armrest. Classic Ridley Scott, right?

The Brains Behind the Battle

With the legendary Ridley Scott at the helm, and David Scarpa weaving the screenplay magic, you’re in for a rollercoaster of emotions. The producing ensemble? Ridley Scott, Kevin J. Walsh, Mark Huffam, and yes, Joaquin Phoenix himself!

Coming to a Theater Near You

Gear up for a cinematic journey like no other! Napoleon launches in cinemas come November 29. Big shoutout to Columbia Pictures, the Philippine arm of Sony Pictures Releasing International, for bringing this epic to our shores.

Don’t forget to join the conversation with #Napoleon. Let the cinematic discussions begin!

_{Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”}

October 19, 2023
Legendary director Ridley Scott brings to the big screen a spectacle-filled action epic in “Napoleon”

Ridley Scott’s brilliant filmmaking is unmatched. See the acclaimed director’s work on the big screen in Napoleon, starring Academy Award® winner Joaquin Phoenix and Vanessa Kirby (The Crown, Mission Impossible movies), in cinemas November 29.

To prepare to shoot the movie, Scott assembled his team in a war room – which in this case was as literal a war room as can be when the subject is making a movie. With large-scale models of the sets for battles at Waterloo, Austerlitz, and Toulan, art department drawings, models, Scott – who is an excellent artist and has always storyboarded his own films – brought the entire team together to share his vision and direct his crafts team in the images he is looking to achieve.

On Napoleon, Scott would employ up to 11 cameras at once. Phoenix, who plays iconic French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, was gratified by the opportunity to work again on a Ridley Scott set. “If we happen to get lucky and discover something, and there is a special moment where something was unplanned, then it’s almost guaranteed that Ridley has captured it,” he says. “To have that opportunity as an actor is really rare. Trying to chase something and recreate it is virtually impossible.”

Vanessa Kirby and Joaquin Phoenix

“It allowed us to bring an improvisational nature to the way we worked,” says Kirby, who plays Napoleon’s one true love, Josephine. “You don’t need to remember the exact movements you did in the previous shot. It’s an opportunity for collaboration, as we would go and watch the monitor with Ridley and throw ideas out about what could be done differently.”

Shares production designer Arthur Max, a frequent collaborator of Scott’s: “There is no background with Ridley, no cheating; it’s all about scale and the density of detail. It’s like living in a painting – it is challenging, but also immense fun.”

Ridley Scott and Joaquin Phoenix

Against a stunning backdrop of large-scale filmmaking orchestrated by Scott, Napoleon captures the iconic French emperor’s relentless journey to power through the prism of his addictive, volatile relationship with his one true love, Josephine, showcasing his visionary military and political tactics against some of the most dynamic practical battle sequences ever filmed. The film opens in cinemas November 29.

Napoleon is distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International. Connect with the hashtag #Napoleon

_{Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”}

October 12, 2023
Thrilling First Look: Joaquin Phoenix Shines in Ridley Scott’s ‘Napoleon’ Official Trailer

“He came from nothing. He conquered everything.” The tagline for the much-anticipated movie ‘Napoleon‘ says it all. Ridley Scott, the legendary director behind cinematic marvels like ‘Gladiator’ and ‘The Martian,’ is back with another captivating action epic. This time, he brings to life the tumultuous story of French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, with Oscar®-winner Joaquin Phoenix leading the charge.

Watch the unveiling of Napoleon’s world in the newly released official trailer now:

‘Napoleon’: A Power-Packed Cinematic Journey

Prepare to be captivated by the larger-than-life world of “Napoleon.” Ridley Scott, the legendary director behind cinematic masterpieces, orchestrates a visual feast that will transport you to a time of grandeur and conquest. The film showcases the relentless pursuit of power by Bonaparte, who emerged from humble beginnings to become one of history’s most iconic figures. Through his addictive and volatile relationship with his one true love, Josephine, played by the enchanting Vanessa Kirby, we witness the human side of this visionary leader.

Ridley Scott’s Visionary Filmmaking

“Napoleon” combines breathtaking large-scale filmmaking with exhilarating practical battle sequences, making it an absolute treat for action enthusiasts. Ridley Scott’s mastery of storytelling brings to life the brilliant military and political tactics employed by Bonaparte. Prepare to be amazed as you watch the epic clash of armies and experience the strategic brilliance that propelled Napoleon to greatness.

A Stellar Ensemble Cast

Behind the scenes, a talented team has joined forces to bring this action-packed spectacle to the big screen. Directed by Ridley Scott and featuring a screenplay by David Scarpa, “Napoleon” is a collaboration of visionary minds. The film is produced by Ridley Scott, Kevin J. Walsh, Mark Huffam, and Joaquin Phoenix, ensuring that every aspect of the production is top-notch.

As the titular character, Joaquin Phoenix delivers a mesmerizing performance that showcases his immense talent and range as an actor. With his commanding presence and magnetic screen presence, he brings Napoleon Bonaparte to life in a way that will leave you in awe. Alongside him, Vanessa Kirby shines as Josephine, capturing the essence of their passionate and tumultuous love story.

Gear up for a cinematic adventure like no other as “Napoleon” prepares to conquer the silver screen. Ridley Scott’s masterful direction, combined with the stellar performances of Joaquin Phoenix and Vanessa Kirby, guarantees an epic experience that will transport you to a bygone era of ambition, love, and strategic warfare.

Don’t miss out on this highly anticipated action epic. Get ready to witness the rise and fall of a legend when “Napoleon” hits cinemas soon. Watch the official trailer now and let the excitement begin!

Stay tuned and join the conversation with the hashtag #Napoleon. Get ready to immerse yourself in the epic saga of Napoleon Bonaparte, a tale of a man who came from nothing and conquered everything!

_{Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”}

July 11, 2023