Kenneth Branagh, a veteran actor and director, recently graced the Edinburgh International Film Festival with his presence, receiving the inaugural EIFF Outstanding Contribution to Cinema award. This interview with Branagh, hosted by Guardian critic Peter Bradshaw, offered a captivating glimpse into the actor's illustrious career and his unique approach to filmmaking.
Branagh's journey began with a memorable encounter during the preparation of his 1991 thriller, 'Dead Again'. He recalled feeling the room move as he worked in Sydney Pollack's office, a moment that foreshadowed the success of the film. Early previews of 'Dead Again' were disastrous, but Branagh's persistence paid off when he restored the original idea of rendering the past in black and white, turning the film into a studio favorite.
One of Branagh's most intriguing anecdotes involves his collaboration with Christopher Nolan on 'Tenet'. Branagh sought Nolan's advice on whether his Russian oligarch character should speak Russian backwards while moving backwards through time. Nolan's response, 'Yes, I think you would,' led Branagh to spend lunch learning backwards Russian, showcasing his dedication to the craft.
Branagh's experience on the 'Harry Potter' franchise was equally remarkable. He initially assumed that playing Gilderoy Lockhart would require only a few weeks of work, but the role consumed him for nine months. The scale of the production was staggering, with a crew list resembling a telephone directory and stunt doubles and stand-ins filling an entire classroom while the young stars were at school. Branagh described Hogwarts as its own ecosystem, with notes being passed and little darts being thrown at people.
Branagh's passion for Shakespeare is evident throughout his career. He shared his early theater company's mission to make Shakespeare feel immediate rather than reverential, ensuring that his parents could watch the plays without feeling the need to read the plays beforehand. This instinct fueled his directorial debut, 'Henry V', which he made despite producer David Puttnam's late warning of potential career damage. Branagh's approach to directing can be summarized in three words: 'I don't know'.
One of the most emotional moments in the interview was Branagh's discussion of 'Belfast', a semi-autobiographical film written during the pandemic. The script, which had been sitting inside him for 40 years, was a cathartic and necessary release for Branagh. His sister's reaction to the script, 'My God, for a very private man, you've really put it all out there now, haven't you?' highlighted the depth of his emotional investment in the project.
Branagh's advice to an audience member, 'Keep practising and enjoy', encapsulates his philosophy on life and art. His journey from Shakespeare to superheroes, Poirot, Hogwarts, and Hollywood showcases his versatility and dedication to his craft. Branagh's ability to transform and adapt to different roles and genres is a testament to his talent and passion for the art of storytelling.
In conclusion, Kenneth Branagh's interview at the Edinburgh International Film Festival provided a captivating insight into his life and career. His unique approach to filmmaking, dedication to his craft, and emotional depth make him a true master of his profession. As Branagh continues to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide, his legacy as a versatile and talented artist is set to endure for generations to come.
