Harrison Ford Reveals Why He Prefers Westerns Over CGI-Heavy Films

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In a lengthy and productive acting career, has ventured into numerous movie genres. This year, he unexpectedly joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe, assuming the role of Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross from the late William Hurt in “Captain America: Brave New World”. Yet, there is one genre that holds a special place for him: Westerns. The fact that he has such an affinity for this traditional cowboy setting seems strange given his subsequent involvement with the Marvel Universe.

Preparing for another Western adventure, like stepping back into the world of Yellowstone with the series 1923, fills me with a sense of satisfaction. This is largely due to the genre’s authentic use of natural landscapes and its minimal reliance on high-tech CGI effects. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter before the premiere of 1923’s second season on Paramount+, I shared:

I adore the raw, tangible aspect of the narrative, the physicality of the storytelling. I’m drawn to working in natural settings. It’s a traditional approach to filmmaking, with minimal or no computer-generated imagery (CGI), just a touch to enhance the location. But what truly matters is the classic, timeless storytelling, and I find this type of material incredibly engaging.

Ford initially encountered the Western genre during his debut movie role more than six decades back, in the 1967 film titled “A Time for Killing“. Although he gained widespread fame in blockbuster films like “Star Wars” and “Indiana Jones“, this genre remains particularly dear to him as it was his launchpad. It appears that the charm of getting gritty and earthy, which is inherent in Westerns, continues to make them an enticing prospect for the octogenarian actor.

Harrison Ford Has Gone from Yellowstone to Red Hulk and Back Again

More recently, Ford has joined other prominent figures like Helen Mirren, Jerome Flynn, and Timothy Dalton in delving into the struggles of early-20th-century ranch life within the world of Yellowstone, as depicted in the series 1923. Interestingly, before reprising his role as Jacob Dutton, Ford has taken an unanticipated leap to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, portraying Thaddeus Ross/Red Hulk in this year’s Captain America: Brave New World.

Given Ford’s attraction to Western themes and his transformation into a CGI creature in the film, it seems like an unusual choice that might challenge the stability of multiple realities. Yet, despite the MCU typically preferring practical effects, Ford appeared to enjoy his Marvel debut, which was a significant factor in his decision to join the franchise. He even expressed eagerness about reprising his role in future projects. Previously, he stated:

“Despite the contrast between his preference for Western settings and his CGI character in the film, Ford seemed to relish his Marvel debut, a key factor that led him to join the franchise. He also hinted at potential interest in revisiting this role again.

I’m hoping he will return, as I envision a tale where he evolves beyond just being the Red Hulk. It seems our characters can transition between Hulk and human forms, but that’s more for someone else to handle. I was thrilled to be part of this playground, working with such an incredible team, and immersed in such a creative world. So, I was excited about the prospect of contributing more to these adventures.

Absolutely, Ford is quite familiar with the role and has played parts in the Star Wars series multiple times. Despite his affinity for traditional, old-fashioned storytelling like 1923, he’s not averse to venturing into less earthbound territories if the finances are right to help him overlook any potential silliness associated with the role.

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2025-02-22 17:33