Dave Poland sits down with Jake, who discusses the things he loves about making movies and being an actor, his ambitions and whether he has a grand plan. It's a wonderful opportunity to observe a relaxed, funny and serious Jake. All in glorious close up.
Britain's ShortList delves into similar themes:
Did you have trouble convincing your agent to let you do it?
It’s interesting you say that because [it points out] how the business is taking over any sense of creativity that anybody might have. Everyone’s going after some goal, be it financial or otherwise and, in my perspective, that is totally out of whack. But no, I wouldn’t work with an agent like that. ...
Did you experience any funny encounters on the job?
The laughter comes in the little things – like figuring out where to eat, because people will do crappy things to the food if you’re a cop. Seriously. And when you do eat, like clockwork, locals will come up and ask you questions about parking tickets or when their cousin will get out of jail. ...
You came close to playing both Batman and Spider-Man. Are you over the superhero thing now?
At a certain point you realise there’s always someone more interesting, talented and ready to do a role than you are – and you won’t get every role you go for. All I want right now is to hone my skills and become a better actor, not dream about wearing a cape. But you never know.
After nude scenes in Brokeback Mountain and Love And Other Drugs, are you now impervious to embarrassment on screen?
Do you think there is one person on Earth impervious to embarrassment? And do you think it would be me? That’s a rhetorical question, and I’ll leave you with that.
The Wrap shines the spotlight on movies and performances that shouldn't be overlooked come awards time:
David Ayers, "End of Watch": The year's best crime drama is a hyper-realistic ode to the LAPD punctuated by strong performances from Jake Gyllenhaal (right) and Michael Peña. "Training Day" made writer-director Ayers' career, but this film isn't far off.
Jake on the Gyllenholiday tradition:
This year in Jake World, I'm grateful for two thrilling, moving performances. In End of Watch, for which Jake and everyone involved worked so hard. I'm so happy that it has paid off for all of them.
I'm especially thankful for If There Is I Haven't Found It Yet and the opportunity to see Jake being funny and sexy and dark, all live and in person.
Meeting and attending the play with fellow Jake fans made it all the sweeter.
Every year, I'm grateful for the community we have here, from regulars to lurkers. Thanks for making this a fun place to spend time. And thank you to Jake for giving us so much to experience, look back on and look forward to.
Eat, drink and be merry!
