Peter Sarsgaard, acclaimed actor, recently took on a challenging role in the film “Memory,” where he portrays Saul, a man grappling with dementia. Sarsgaard, in an exclusive interview, reveals the unique approach he took to depict this character positively and discusses the unconventional filming methods employed by director Michel Franco.
A Positive Portrayal of Dementia
Sarsgaard shares that he was determined to present a different perspective on dementia through his character in “Memory.” While dementia is the condition Saul faces, it does not define his character. Saul is a man with a limited time frame in his life, yet he remains vibrant throughout the film. Sarsgaard emphasizes the importance of portraying Saul as a positive person, steering away from the stereotypical sad and bedridden character often associated with dementia.
Influences from Reimagining Dementia
Drawing inspiration from organizations like “Reimagining Dementia” in New York, Sarsgaard highlights the significance of embracing diverse viewpoints when approaching dementia. Although he didn’t directly collaborate with the organization, working with a doctor associated with them allowed him to infuse authenticity into his portrayal.
A Unique Filming Experience
Sarsgaard discusses the distinctive filming style employed by Michel Franco in “Memory.” The film features long, unbroken takes with some scenes shot only once. This approach not only provided a real-time continuity but also allowed Franco to edit on-site, ensuring an authentic portrayal.
Stage Background Influence
Given both Sarsgaard and his co-star Jessica Chastain’s background in theater, they were comfortable letting scenes play out naturally. The control over their timing, influenced by their stage experience, contributed to the organic flow of the film.
Honesty in Filmmaking
Sarsgaard appreciates Michel Franco’s honesty as a director. In an industry where positivity often prevails, Franco’s straightforward approach resonated with Sarsgaard. The director’s concern about boring the audience drove them to maintain authenticity in every scene.
Navigating Honest Critique
Reflecting on his collaboration with directors like Lone Scherfig, Sarsgaard acknowledges the importance of honest feedback. Even if delivered in a seemingly direct manner, Sarsgaard values constructive criticism. He believes that unfiltered honesty is essential for growth and improvement.
Varied Roles and Audience Reactions
As an actor with a diverse portfolio, Sarsgaard notes that people approach him about different roles based on their individual preferences. He appreciates the diversity in audience reactions, acknowledging that each film resonates differently with viewers.
The Curious Query: “What movie do I know you from?”
Sarsgaard humorously addresses the occasional question he receives about being recognized without immediate film identification. Despite the occasional uncertainty, he embraces the varied and unpredictable nature of audience recognition.
In conclusion, Peter Sarsgaard’s portrayal in “Memory” not only showcases his acting prowess but also sheds light on the importance of presenting nuanced perspectives on conditions like dementia. The interview offers a glimpse into Sarsgaard’s commitment to authenticity, his appreciation for unfiltered feedback, and the ever-evolving nature of audience interactions with his diverse body of work.