Ep 25. Taylor Kitsch Is 'John Carter'
- March 2, 2012
In season 5, episode 25 of Popcorn With Peter Travers, viewers are treated to an in-depth interview with actor Taylor Kitsch. The episode focuses on Kitsch's lead role in the 2012 science-fiction film "John Carter," based on a series of novels by Edgar Rice Burroughs.
Travers opens the interview by asking Kitsch how he landed the role of John Carter. Kitsch reveals that he had auditioned for the film two years prior and was ecstatic to finally get the part. The two discuss Kitsch's intense physical preparation for the film, including learning to horseback ride and sword fight.
Travers then asks Kitsch about his experience working with director Andrew Stanton, known for his work on Pixar films such as "Finding Nemo" and "WALL-E." Kitsch praises Stanton's attention to detail and ability to juggle the film's complex visual effects while still telling a compelling story.
The conversation then turns to Kitsch's portrayal of John Carter, a Confederate soldier who is transported to Mars and becomes embroiled in a war between Martians. Kitsch discusses how he approached the character's emotional journey, particularly his struggle to find a sense of purpose after the trauma of the Civil War.
Travers also asks Kitsch about co-star Lynn Collins, who plays the film's female lead Dejah Thoris. Kitsch lauds Collins for her strong and nuanced portrayal of the character, stating that their on-screen chemistry helped to elevate the film.
Throughout the episode, Travers and Kitsch also discuss the film's reception, with Kitsch expressing disappointment at its lackluster box office performance. However, he also reflects on the impact the experience had on him as an actor, stating that it taught him to take risks and trust his instincts.
Overall, the episode provides an engaging look at "John Carter" and Kitsch's performance in the film. Kitsch's charisma and insight make for a compelling interview, and fans of the film or Kitsch's work will enjoy diving deeper into his experience making the movie.