The total Interviews with Samuel L. Jackson & Christopher Lee...that is
"Hear the Force"
This issue of Star Wars Insider features exclusive interviews with actors playing some of the most powerful Jedi warriors in the saga. Samuel L. Jackson returns as Mace Windu, Jedi Master; Christopher Lee plays Count Dooku, the fallen Jedi. While you can read their words on the pages of the magazine, this online supplement is the only place to hear select fragments from their interviews, including excerpts that did not appear in print.
Samuel L. Jackson: Straight from the Hip
Throughout the course of the Star Wars saga, it's hard to make a case that there's been a more recognizable star than Samuel L. Jackson. Check that -- it's hard to find a star of his magnitude, period. And no, we're not taking anything away from such actors as Liam Neeson, Ewan McGregor or even the late greats, Sir Alec Guinness and Peter Cushing. Jackson really is in a league of his own, and simply put, the man has all but conquered the silver screen to become one of the hardest-working actors in the world today.
During his career, which is now well into its fourth decade, Jackson's film resume is nothing short of extraordinary, and it's really the stuff of Hollywood legend. Since Attack of the Clones, Jackson has starred or appeared in such films as xXx, S.W.A.T., and Kill Bill, Vol. 2. He's even lent his unmistakable voice to the superhero Frozone in The Incredibles and the crooked cop Frank Tenpenny in the high-profile video game, Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas.
Jackson took time to discuss the challenges of lightsaber action, acting against nothing, and working with the Chosen One.
You've talked before about Mace Windu's death scene. How did you think it turned out?
What do you think the audience will feel about your big action scene in Episode III?
In Episode II, you went up against a gun-wielding foe, now you're going lightsaber-to-lightsaber. Any tips on Jedi combat?
How do you handle imaginary or non-existence opponents or situations when making these films?
What is it like being on the Jedi Council?
How do you think Hayden Christensen is facing the challenge of becoming Darth Vader?
Could you describe your working relationship with Hayden?
Christopher Lee: The Journey of Count Dooku
He is the actor of a thousand faces, and his illustrious career is well into its eighth decade. He has worked with some of the world's most well-known actors, and he has shared the stage with hundreds more. He may have gone to-to-toe with Errol Flynn, but he will be most remembered for his epic confrontation with Yoda. He perfected the art of playing a villain, yet his demeaner is anything but villainous. He is, by all accounts, a gentleman's gentleman.
Christopher Lee will go down in cinematic history as one of the most prolific actors that has ever lived. However, now is not the time to wax philosophical about the man who breathed life into Count Dracula, but rather to delve into the mind of the man who portrays Count Dooku...
Can you offer any words of advice for new actors just getting started? Is there any advice you offered to Hayden?
Is there a lighter side to Dooku? Is there any humor to his character?
Can you comment on the scope and richness of the Star Wars story?
Having worked in the industry for as long as you have, and now being involved with some of the most cutting edge movies being made, can you comment on the ever-changing face of filmmaking?