Ep 29. Sam Rockwell Goes 'Way Way Back'

Sam Rockwell is an Academy Award-winning character actor, known for his versatility and ability to transform himself completely for a role. On the latest episode of Popcorn With Peter Travers, rockwell sits down with Travers to discuss his latest film, “The Way Way Back,” a coming-of-age story that sees him play a supporting role as a zany water park manager.

Rockwell discusses his process for getting into character, explaining that he always starts with the script. In the case of “The Way Way Back,” he was drawn to the script because of its “authenticity” and the way it captured the awkwardness of adolescence. He also talks about the challenges of playing a comedic character, something he hasn’t done very often in his career.

Throughout the interview, Rockwell proves to be a charming and engaging guest, telling stories about his life and career with a wry sense of humor. He talks about growing up in San Francisco, watching movies at the Castro Theatre with his dad, and how he got his start in theater.

Travers also asks Rockwell about some of his other notable performances, including his turn as a racist cop in “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri,” and his role as the paranoid CIA agent in “Confessions of a Dangerous Mind.”

As always, Travers proves to be an insightful interviewer, asking thoughtful questions and eliciting thoughtful responses from his guest. He also provides his own analysis of Rockwell’s performances, highlighting the nuances and subtleties that make him such a compelling actor.

Overall, “Sam Rockwell Goes 'Way Way Back'” is an engaging and entertaining episode of Popcorn With Peter Travers. Whether you’re a fan of Rockwell’s work or simply interested in the craft of acting, this episode is well worth watching.