Will Smith Says – ‘I grew as an actor from Pursuit of Happiness’ Not a ‘slapgate’ scandal.
During the Red Sea International Film Festival 2023, actor Will Smith shared insights into his career journey in the entertainment industry. Reflecting on his life, Smith expressed that if he hadn’t pursued acting, his alternate path might have led him to become a scientist.
This choice aligns with his approach to dealing with the intricate puzzles and challenges that life presents, showcasing his affinity for a scientific mindset in navigating through various aspects of his personal and professional experiences.
In attendance at the Red Sea International Film Festival in Saudi Arabia, Will Smith, the profoundly human actor renowned for his ability to connect with audiences, engaged in a conversation with Firstpost. During the interview, Smith delved into his remarkable journey in the entertainment industry and highlighted some pivotal films that have left a lasting impact on his life.
Smith emphasized his belief in trusting his instincts when it comes to selecting roles. He expressed the importance of choosing characters that possess universal relatability and emotional relevance, considering them as seeds from which actors can grow.
Despite the tendency to focus on the controversies surrounding actors, Smith’s interaction with Firstpost underscored the need to shift the narrative away from his infamous ‘slapgate’ incident and instead appreciate his artistry and the craftsmanship that defines him as an exceptional performer.
This perspective encourages a reevaluation of Smith’s contributions to the cinematic world, emphasizing the need to acknowledge his talent and dedication to his craft.
When did you realise in life that you are going to become an actor?
Approximately fifteen years ago, a pivotal realization about my future as an actor unfolded. During that time, my mother was in the process of digitizing all our images. She prompted me with a question, asking if I noticed anything distinctive. It was then that she pointed out, “See, there is not a single picture where you are not looking directly at the camera. You always knew where the camera was, and when it appeared, you looked straight at it.”
This revelation became a turning point for me. Recognizing that I consistently enjoyed being in front of the camera, I discovered a passion that had been with me throughout my life.
The realization was akin to a lightbulb moment – a profound understanding that acting was not merely a pursuit but an intrinsic part of me, a source of energy and inspiration that fuels my journey. Acting, for me, is like a constant, glowing energy bulb that keeps me motivated and moving forward.
When did you actually realise that acting is much more than a desire for you and this is what you are going to pursue?
The realization that acting was more than just a desire for me and something I wanted to pursue came to me when I first heard “Rapper’s Delight” in 1978-79 when the record was released. Despite the challenging landscape for aspiring rappers at that time, I knew that I wanted to be part of that art form and perform in front of people. Rap music was the initial form of entertainment that truly captured my passion.
Did you ever think of picking up any other profession like a lawyer or a scientist?
Interestingly, during my formative years, I excelled in Math and Science, leading me to contemplate a career as a scientist. I was fascinated by the analytical mindset required in these fields, enjoying the process of solving problems and tackling puzzles. Life, to me, seemed like a math problem, and I relished the challenge of figuring out how to make things work.
However, the turning point came when I heard “Rapper’s Delight,” marking a significant shift in my aspirations. In 1986, I took a step towards my newfound passion by releasing a small record in Philadelphia, solidifying my commitment to the path of a rapper and actor.
Tell us about Men in Black and your journey as an actor from there on.
This particular project generated significant attention, particularly due to my collaboration with actor Tommy Lee Jones. Working with him proved to be an inspiring experience that motivated me to elevate my skills as an actor.
Interestingly, my foray into acting coincided with a decline in my music career, and I found myself transitioning into primarily being recognized as an actor. However, this shift was intentional as I believed I could excel more as an actor than as a rapper.
For me, my career has evolved into a profound exploration of self. It serves as a platform to try new things, experiment, and ultimately, a beautiful means of discovering who I am and shaping my desired path. Engaging with various characters not only enhances my acting abilities but also imparts valuable lessons about myself and life, allowing me to contribute meaningfully to humanity.
Despite the demanding nature of a hectic schedule, I’ve found that the periods between projects are remarkably creative for me. The intensity of a sixteen-hour workday leaves little room for creativity, emphasizing the importance of these breaks.
Continuous learning is a priority for me, and I’ve delved into stories that have endured for centuries, recognizing that at their core, they often revolve around human suffering. This realization adds depth to my understanding of storytelling and contributes to my growth as an artist.
Will Smith – In ‘Men in Black’
What do you look at when you are doing a movie?
Navigating the creation of a film involves a dual perspective for me – relying on instincts and adopting a scientific approach to understand the movie’s purpose. Take, for example, a film like “King Richard.” The pivotal moment in the development of the story is when Richard Williams declares, “Nobody had respect for Richard Williams.”
This highlights the father’s conviction that the world never afforded him respect, and he is determined to ensure that his children do not face the same treatment. The essence of a movie must originate from something universally relatable and emotionally relevant. It’s about connecting with the core idea from the seed of its inception, fostering growth as an actor.
While the allure of a project may come later, the crux of everything lies in the exploration of suffering. Movies, such as “King Richard,” serve as a testament to this principle. They teach us not just how to survive but how to thrive amid the existential tragedy we find ourselves in. The heart of storytelling revolves around the human experience, providing profound lessons on resilience and the capacity to flourish despite the challenges life presents.
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