JRE #2191 – Russell Crowe

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20-Aug-24

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This podcast features actor, director, and musician Russell Crowe, known for roles in “Gladiator,” and “A Beautiful Mind.” Crowe discusses his career, his band Indoor Garden Party, and his upcoming film “Kraven the Hunter.” The conversation also touches on topics of personal growth, mental health, and the challenges of fame.

Major Topics

  1. Russell Crowe’s Early Life and Career:

    1. Crowe’s early days in New Zealand, where he left school before university due to financial constraints.
    2. His first job was working for an insurance company, which was not a good fit.
    3. He pursued a career in music, starting as a nightclub DJ, and later performing with a 1950s-themed band.
    4. His acting career was sparked by his parents’ work as caterers on film sets and an unexpected opportunity on a school trip to a TV studio.

  2. Crowe’s Philosophy on Work:

    1. Crowe emphasizes the importance of passion and having clear motivations in his work.
    2. He chooses film projects that resonate deeply with him, even if they are unconventional or challenging.
    3. Crowe views his acting career as a passion and an opportunity to step into the shoes of others.
    4. He acknowledges the demanding nature of filmmaking, but embraces the challenges and finds fulfillment in the creative process.

  3. Crowe’s Experience with the Film Industry:

    1. A humorous anecdote involving a tarantula crawling into his mouth during the filming of “Miss Shumwe Waves a Wand” highlights the sometimes chaotic and unpredictable nature of film sets.
    2. Crowe shares stories of extreme weather conditions, long hours, and unexpected injuries, such as shredding both his hamstrings while filming “Noah.”
    3. He reflects on the intense preparation for physical roles, like boxing training for “Cinderella Man,” where he worked closely with legendary boxing trainer Angelo Dundee.
    4. Crowe’s experiences with various directors, including Ridley Scott, Darren Aronofsky, and Ron Howard, illustrate his appreciation for the creative genius and collaborative nature of filmmaking.

  4. Crowe’s Passion for Music:

    1. Crowe’s long-standing love for music is evident as he discusses his band Indoor Garden Party and their current tour.
    2. He views music as its own reward, finding joy in playing, singing, and collaborating with fellow musicians.
    3. Crowe’s music career provides him with a sense of reset, allowing him to connect with a more visceral and immediate audience.
    4. His music and acting careers complement each other, both offering unique outlets for creativity and expression.

  5. Crowe’s Perspective on Environmentalism:

    1. Crowe expresses concern about the impact of fossil fuels on the environment and climate change.
    2. He acknowledges the irrefutable evidence of climate change and encourages responsible action.
    3. Crowe practices sustainable farming on his property, raising cattle in a humane and regenerative manner.
    4. He challenges the common misconception that climate change is a political issue, emphasizing its importance and urgency.

  6. Crowe’s Views on Fame and Celebrity:

    1. Crowe shares his perspective on the strange and sometimes surreal experience of being recognized for his work.
    2. He acknowledges the challenges of fame, including the constant scrutiny and the pressure to maintain a certain image.
    3. Crowe highlights the importance of staying grounded and maintaining a sense of normalcy, despite the attention.
    4. His experiences with various celebrities, such as Anthony Hopkins and Jack Thompson, reveal his appreciation for mentorship and the importance of connections within the industry.

  7. Crowe’s Views on Spirituality and Religion:

    1. Crowe discusses his personal approach to spirituality, suggesting a belief in a power beyond human understanding.
    2. He views religion as a human way of explaining the inexplicable, emphasizing the importance of personal introspection and the power of belief.
    3. Crowe shares a heartwarming story of his mother’s emotional response to a visit to the Vatican, reflecting on the profound impact of shared experiences and family connections.
    4. His experience playing Noah in “Noah” highlights the universality of flood narratives across different cultures and religions.

  8. Crowe’s Thoughts on the Future:

    1. Crowe expresses concern about the growing polarization and misinformation circulating in society, particularly in politics.
    2. He highlights the importance of critical thinking, responsible information sharing, and recognizing the human element in political discourse.
    3. Crowe finds hope in the potential of technology to connect people and foster greater understanding, despite its current shortcomings.
    4. He advocates for a more inclusive and collaborative approach to navigating the challenges and opportunities of the future.

Memorable Quotes

  1. “I think we’ve all got a bit of a crazy in us to do this job.” – Crowe acknowledges the unique characteristics and dedication required for a career in the film industry.
  2. “I only ever bring somebody on stage who’s going to absolutely shred the room.” – Crowe’s philosophy on collaborating with talented individuals and fostering a high-energy performance environment.
  3. “I don’t think there is an ancient religion that doesn’t have a flood story.” – Crowe highlights the universality of flood narratives across different cultures and religions, suggesting a possible connection to real historical events.
  4. “Politics is the art of the possible, so it’s not really connected to anything. It’s like what can we get away with?” – Crowe’s cynical view of political maneuvering and the focus on expediency over principle.
  5. “It’s so important that America remains healthy into the future, for everyone, not just for Americans.” – Crowe emphasizes the global significance of America’s role and the responsibility it carries as a beacon of freedom.



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