Ray Winstone Shares Career Insights at Sarajevo Film Festival Masterclass
Ray Winstone, renowned for his tough-guy roles, recently offered a fascinating glimpse into his illustrious career during a masterclass at the 31st Sarajevo Film Festival. The acclaimed actor, recognized for his outstanding contributions to cinema, received the honorary Heart of Sarajevo award, celebrating his remarkable acting journey.
During the masterclass, Winstone discussed his collaborations with Hollywood heavyweights such as Angelina Jolie, Steven Spielberg, Martin Scorsese, and Gary Oldman. He candidly addressed the evolving landscape of the film industry in the age of social media, stating, “It’s all about selling tickets now. The business aspect has become more pronounced.” He acknowledged the dominance of franchises like Marvel, which, while entertaining, can overshadow more culturally rich films that provide actors with substantial roles.
Winstone remarked on the pressures of social media, emphasizing that not having an online presence can hinder an actor’s opportunities. “If you’re not on social media, you might not even be considered for a film,” he noted. Despite his mixed feelings about this trend, he recognized that social media can draw audiences to theaters and create more job opportunities within the industry. “I’d like to see more cultural films being made because that’s where the best cinema lies,” he added.
The 68-year-old actor first gained attention in Alan Clarke’s 1979 drama Scum, portraying a juvenile delinquent. His subsequent role as Kevin in Quadrophenia further solidified his status as a formidable talent. Winstone has earned acclaim for his ability to blend toughness with vulnerability in films like Gary Oldman’s Nil by Mouth and Jonathan Glazer’s Sexy Beast.
Reflecting on his early acting experiences, Winstone shared, “I did a school play because I fancied a girl, and I really enjoyed it.” He also discussed how boxing taught him respect for his opponents, a lesson he applies in his acting career. When asked about the two versions of Scum, he remarked that the original was superior due to the youthful energy of the cast.
Winstone also spoke fondly of working with Oldman, highlighting him as one of the best directors he’s collaborated with. He appreciates films that tackle social issues, drawing on his own working-class background. His role in Nil by Mouth allowed him to explore themes of abuse with a deeply personal touch.
As for working with icons like Ben Kingsley in Sexy Beast, Winstone praised Kingsley’s versatility, showcasing his ability to transition from playing Gandhi to a menacing character. Winstone enjoys portraying complex characters, often blurring the lines between good and evil to heighten the impact of violence on screen.
Winstone’s filmography also includes notable roles in Martin Scorsese’s The Departed and Guy Ritchie’s The Gentlemen, where he plays a drug boss. He shared a memorable anecdote about meeting Scorsese, who was initially interested in casting him as a policeman. Winstone’s charm and confidence led to a memorable role, showcasing the director’s unique filming style.
On his collaboration with Steven Spielberg, Winstone expressed admiration for the director’s innovative approach to filmmaking. He enjoyed the privilege of observing both Spielberg and Scorsese work their magic on set.
Winstone praised Angelina Jolie, who he starred alongside in Beowulf, calling her a talented actress who brings much more to her roles than just beauty. He candidly shared that playing a pedophile in one of his films was the role he liked least.
When asked about the best advice he ever received, Winstone recalled a critique about his performance, which taught him the importance of conveying emotion through his eyes. Looking ahead, he mentioned his ongoing work on The Gentlemen and a new project about the English snooker player Jimmy White.
With a career spanning five decades, Winstone has captivated audiences with his talent and magnetic presence. Sarajevo Film Festival director Jovan Marjanovic praised him, stating, “His honesty and intensity resonate far beyond the screen, giving us many unforgettable characters.” Winstone’s humor shone through during the masterclass, as he lightheartedly admitted to feeling the effects of local wine from the night before, delighting the audience with his candidness.
In conclusion, Ray Winstone’s masterclass at the Sarajevo Film Festival provided invaluable insights into the changing dynamics of the film industry, his personal experiences, and his hopes for the future of cinema. He continues to be a significant figure in the film world, inspiring both audiences and aspiring actors alike.
