As a seasoned gamer who has spent countless hours immersing myself in various virtual worlds, I can’t help but feel a sense of awe and admiration when reading about Daniel Kaluuya’s real-life journey. His story is not just one of an actor rising to fame, but a tale of friendship, mentorship, and overcoming challenges that transcends the silver screen.
As a huge admirer, I’m sharing some heartfelt insights from Daniel Kaluuya himself regarding his bond with Chadwick Boseman, his trailblazing work paving paths for Black actors in Hollywood, and the distinct dynamics between a U.S. and U.K. film set.
On Wednesday, the multi-talented individual (actor, writer, and producer) appeared alongside his long-time friend and fellow actor, Ashley Walters, at a BFI London Film Festival event held at Picturehouse Central in Soho. During this occasion, Walters acknowledged Kaluuya as one of the most inspiring individuals he knows.
Speaking about his encounter with Boseman, Kaluuya couldn’t hide his admiration. Tragically, Boseman passed away at the age of 43 in 2020 following a secret fight against colon cancer. On the Marvel film set, they collaborated, with Kaluuya playing W’Kabi. “Meeting Chad was a transformative experience for me,” Kaluuya expressed. “One evening, we shared dinner together, and I was seated across from him. He seemed to sense that my life was shifting without my awareness. Leaning in, he offered help and guidance without me even asking. And I didn’t know how to ask for it.” [Laughs]
He acted as an older brother to me by assisting me, he explained. Later, “Get Out” was released and he delivered a touching speech at my birthday event. His leadership on set was remarkable, and I empathized with him because performing in Marvel films – that’s demanding work. The physical exertion required during action scenes in those costumes under the hot sun is grueling, and I admire him even more knowing he endured all of this while dealing with personal struggles. To be honest, I struggle to find the right words for how much I respect him for that.
He poured all of himself into the task, leading with great dignity. He consistently managed to unite people… He was always willing to spare a moment for anyone. With Lupita Nyong’o, they formed a close bond and were constantly checking in on each other, knowing that my life was about to take a significant turn.
Daniel Kaluuya, known for his roles in Jordan Peele’s films such as Get Out, Us, and Nope, as well as Shaka King’s Judas and the Black Messiah — which earned him an Oscar — shared with Walters that he does carry the burden of representing the Black community in Hollywood. “When I take on a role, I ask myself, what message am I conveying to people? [Judas and the Black Messiah] was particularly significant. Someone once said something like, ‘our job is to extract wisdom from the past.’ I felt that when I read this script… However, yes, I do feel a sense of responsibility, in a positive way. I want to ensure that the work I do resonates with those who speak to me or resemble me.
The celebrity talked about the contrast between filming in the United States and in the United Kingdom, specifically highlighting the difference in stress levels due to varying health insurance policies (in the U.K., healthcare is provided for free through the National Health Service). Essentially, they stated that there’s significantly more apprehension when working in America because so much is at stake… [In the U.K.] They believe a healthier work-life equilibrium exists.
He went on to explain why he grew fond of this field. He enjoys collaborating with a group of individuals, sharing jokes, and taking pride in their collective efforts. In contrast, work in America often involves more independent tasks or direction from a single individual, which can feel isolating. Yet, he acknowledges the remarkable opportunities that America offers… Each has its advantages and disadvantages.
Kaluuya discussed at length how he perfects an American accent in his movies. He shared that he develops a general accent based on where he imagines he would have grown up if he were born as an African-American man in America, and then adapts it to regional accents. Moreover, he praised filmmaker Steve McQueen, referring to him as “a truly legendary figure.
Discussing his part in the movie “Get Out”, Kaluuya expressed that he sought a challenging project, one where he could truly immerse himself. He mentioned, “I wanted that film. I wanted to feel the work… That’s the one when I got the role, I was like, ‘Wow, that cool. I want to commit.’ I also wanted to perfect the American accent and appear slim so that when he fights to the end, it would be unexpected.” When Walters inquired about Kaluuya’s future plans, he replied: “Writing is my passion, directing is my passion, producing is my passion… I have no boundaries. I just want to explore and find out what resonates. How do I connect and communicate with the people I wish to engage with?
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2024-10-09 15:54