Billy Crystal on Friendship with Robert De Niro

TL;DR

Billy Crystal discusses his role as a rabbi in the film "Untogether."

Transcript

SO WHAT DO YOU DO? >> I'M A RABBI. >> YOU'RE KIDDING. >> NO. >> YOU'RE JUST SAYING THAT BECAUSE OF WHAT I JUST SAID, YOU'RE MAKING FUN OF ME BECAUSE YOU HAVE A BEARD. >> THAT I GREW JUST SO I CAN TELL PEOPLE I'M A RABBI? NO. WHY ARE YOU SO SURPRISED? >> I DIDN'T THINK YOU'D BE ABLE TO DO SOMETHING LIKE THIS. >> WHY? >> ISN'T IT VAIN? >... Read More

Key Insights

• 🥰 "Untogether" tells a poignant story about interconnected lives, highlighting themes of grief, love, and faith in modern society.
• 😀 The film's characters face relatable struggles, making their personal journeys resonate with audiences seeking genuine emotional narratives.
• 🐰 Billy Crystal's portrayal of a rabbi combines humor and authenticity, offering a fresh perspective on spiritual leadership and personal growth.
• 🎦 The creativity involved in filming "Untogether" reflects the resourcefulness often required in independent cinema, emphasizing passion over budget.
• 🧑‍🏫 Crystal shares that collaborating with Robert De Niro taught him valuable lessons about acting and spontaneity, reinforcing the importance of connection in performance.
• 🫠 The rabbi's character arc is layered with historical significance, linking personal faith to broader social movements of the past.
• 😓 The film features a diverse ensemble cast, including well-known actors, which enriches the storytelling and deepens audience engagement.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the main premise of "Untogether"?

"Untogether" revolves around six individuals dealing with personal struggles in Los Angeles. The characters' paths cross and intertwine, leading to explorations of grief, love, and self-discovery, particularly through the lens of the rabbi's relationship with a young woman navigating her father's recent death.

Q: How does Billy Crystal's character differ from traditional portrayals of rabbis in film?

Crystal's rabbi character is depicted as modern and relatable, with a background in the civil rights movement that adds depth and a rebellious streak. He challenges traditional expectations and engages with a younger generation, showing a side of spirituality that blends humor and personal struggle.

Q: What was the process of filming like for "Untogether"?

The filming process was notably intimate, with a small budget resulting in cast members changing clothes in cars. The minimalism fostered an energetic and collaborative environment, allowing the actors to focus deeply on their performances and character dynamics amidst financial constraints.

Q: How did Billy Crystal and Robert De Niro create chemistry on set?

Crystal and De Niro developed their on-screen chemistry through improvisation and a mutual desire to create genuine moments. Crystal recounts an early interaction during filming where they broke the ice with humor, establishing a rapport that translated into their performances as a psychiatrist and patient.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Billy Crystal's new film "Untogether" features a complex narrative centered around six characters facing various personal crises, intertwined through their interactions in Los Angeles.

• The character he portrays, a rabbi, has a rich backstory, including involvement in the civil rights movement and personal dilemmas that resonate throughout the film.

• Crystal reflects on his experiences working with Robert De Niro, sharing anecdotes that highlight both their friendship and the nuances of acting alongside such a legendary figure.