Josh Brolin said he and costar Denzel Washington nearly got physical while working on the set of 2007's 'American Gangster'. The actor, 56, appeared on the 'In Depth with Graham Bensinger' interview series, at one point discussing his experience working with Washington.
- There was tension on the 'American Gangster' set
- Denzel Washington and Josh Brolin nearly got physical
- HERE is how Brolin recalls it
Washington's Character Immersion
In a candid interview, Josh Brolin revealed a tense interaction with Denzel Washington during the filming of the 2007 movie 'American Gangster.' Brolin, who played a detective opposite Washington's gangster character, recounted how a last-minute line change nearly led to a physical altercation.
"We almost got into a fight," Brolin shared, highlighting the pressure of performing alongside esteemed actors. The incident unfolded when Washington altered Brolin's lines, causing the latter to forget his part.
"I was trying to remember the structure, and then we rehearsed. It wasn't that many lines, mostly mine. And I'm supposed to be super confident," Brolin said. "It’s Denzel Washington, man. It's, like, not easy. You're just this actor who they're trying out, seeing if he's the real thing or not. And I forgot a line."
"I put my hand on his shoulder and I said, ‘What's the line?’ and he hit my hand off and he said, ‘Don't ever f---ing put your hand on me,' " Brolin said. "And I was like, ‘Holy s---, I'm gonna scrap with Denzel Washington. This is crazy.’ We're not actors anymore … at least in my mind."
Brolin explained that Washington was deeply immersed in his role as "Frank Lucas", a notorious gangster. This intense dedication to his character seemed to influence his on-set interactions. The tension eventually dissipated after a brief exchange.
Brolin said Washington seemed caught up in the persona of his character for much of their time on set. "In his mind, he was just doing his job. He was that guy. He was Frank Lucas, period. But I didn't know," he said.
"And then we got through that moment. I said, ‘Are you okay?’ He said, ‘Yeah. You?’ I said, ‘Yeah. Can I get my line?’ He said, ‘Go for it.’ It's like he'd said what he needed to say."
Reflecting on the experience, Brolin acknowledged the different perspectives actors bring to a set. He noted that while some actors, like himself, are eager to work with their idols, A-listers like Washington are focused on their craft.
"You want to have an experience, and those guys are just trying to do their job," Brolin remarked, drawing parallels to other seasoned actors like Robert Duvall.
Despite the initial tension, Brolin encountered Washington at an event a year later, where the Oscar winner greeted him warmly, indicating no lingering animosity.
Washington's portrayal of "Lucas" is compelling, as he exudes both confidence and vulnerability, demonstrating the personal and professional challenges "Lucas" faces in his journey to the top of Harlem's drug empire. This role earned Washington widespread critical acclaim and reinforced his ability to inhabit multifaceted characters with depth and authenticity.
Josh Brolin plays "Detective Trupo", a morally compromised member of the NYPD who represents the systemic corruption within law enforcement during that era. Brolin’s portrayal of "Trupo" is menacing and sleazy, showing the dark side of police work where officers are not always the heroes.
"Trupo’s" unethical behavior creates obstacles for both "Lucas" and the film's more virtuous characters, like "Detective Richie Roberts". Brolin brings a sense of tension and unpredictability to his role, making "Trupo" a figure who further complicates the battle between good and evil.
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The film 'American Gangster' boasted an impressive cast, including Russell Crowe, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Idris Elba. Washington's collaboration with director Ridley Scott continues with 'Gladiator II,' set for release on November 22. Meanwhile, Brolin's memoir, 'From Under the Truck,' is available for fans eager to delve deeper into his experiences.
