Riz Ahmed on Oscar Nomination, Getting Married in Quarantine & Learning Sign Language

TL;DR

Riz Ahmed discusses his Oscar nomination and role in "Sound of Metal."

Transcript

first guest tonight is an emmy-winning actor rapper and the first rizz ever to be nominated for a best actor oscar the film is called sound of metal it is on amazon prime video now say hello to rizz ahmed hey riz how are you congratulations good to see you so rizz i don't know if you remember you were here talking about this movie like a year ago m... Read More

Key Insights

• 👂 Riz Ahmed is recognized for his role in "Sound of Metal," earning six Academy Award nominations.
• 🎥 The film addresses important themes surrounding deafness and musicality, seeking to educate and entertain diverse audiences.
• 🤘 Ahmed's approach to learning sign language emphasized the significance of listening and empathy, enhancing his portrayal of a complex character.
• 🖐️ Family support plays a crucial role in Ahmed's life, as evidenced by their reactions to his nominations and achievements.
• 🥳 The COVID-19 pandemic influenced Ahmed's wedding, leading to a more meaningful and intimate celebration.
• 💠 Humor intermingles with seriousness in Ahmed's narratives, illustrating how personal relationships shape his perspectives.
• 🙉 The movie underscores the importance of sound and silence and how these experiences can resonate differently with deaf and hearing individuals.

Questions & Answers

Q: What does Riz Ahmed mean when he says his film caters to both deaf and hearing audiences?

Riz Ahmed notes that "Sound of Metal" was designed to be accessible for everyone, including deaf viewers. Every print of the film is captioned, and there are segments in sign language without subtitles. This approach aims to merge the experiences of both audiences, enhancing their appreciation of the film's themes and sounds.

Q: How did Riz Ahmed prepare for his role as a character who is losing his hearing?

Ahmed spent about seven and a half months learning American Sign Language with his instructor, Jeremy Lee Stone. This preparation not only helped him portray the character authentically but also provided him with deep insights into communication and listening, facilitating a transformative experience that changed his understanding of connection with others.

Q: What humorous story does Riz Ahmed share about a family Zoom call?

During a family Zoom organized by his sister, Ahmed's cousin, Adnan, admitted he didn't understand what the Oscars were. This moment added a humorous touch to Ahmed's big achievement, showcasing the blend of excitement and familial grounding in the face of celebrity success.

Q: What was unique about Ahmed's wedding that occurred during the pandemic?

Riz Ahmed shared that his wedding was small and intimate because of the pandemic. It allowed for a relaxed atmosphere with only close family present, which he found beautiful and devoid of the stress that often accompanies larger weddings, thus adding a personal touch to the occasion.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Riz Ahmed reflects on his journey to receiving six Academy Award nominations for his film "Sound of Metal," celebrating the film's meaningful impact on deaf and hearing audiences alike.

• He shares a humorous family story involving his cousin's misunderstanding of the Oscars, highlighting the importance of staying grounded amidst success.

• Ahmed details his experience learning American Sign Language to portray his character, emphasizing the personal growth he experienced through connecting with the deaf community.