Podcast Summary: The John C. Reilly Interview with Throwing Fits

Introduction

In the episode titled "The John C. Reilly Interview with Throwing Fits," hosts Lawrence and Jeff sit down with the versatile actor John C. Reilly. The conversation delves into Reilly's multifaceted career, personal style, artistic endeavors, and life philosophies. The interview is a blend of humor, insightful discussions, and heartfelt anecdotes, providing listeners with a comprehensive look into the life and mindset of one of Hollywood's most beloved characters.

Career and Nominations

John C. Reilly opens the discussion by addressing his nominations across major award platforms, humorously debating the concept of an EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, Tony).

• [00:00–03:12]
  Reilly: “I have arrived.”
  Host: "Did you have anything written down at the Oscars when you're nominated for Chicago?"

Reilly shares his thoughts on being nominated versus winning, emphasizing the pressure that comes with victory and the inherent honor in being recognized.

• [02:47–03:12]
  Reilly: "It is kind of better to be nominated than to win. You get into the Matrix... it tells people that you're there and you're part of the conversation."

He reflects on his experience at the Oscars for "Chicago," where he did not win, but acknowledges his colleague Chris Cooper's well-deserved victory.

Personal Style and Fashion

A significant portion of the interview centers around Reilly's distinctive personal style and his passion for fashion. He discusses his preference for custom-made suits, workwear aesthetics, and his love for hats, providing insights into how his fashion choices reflect his personality and artistic expression.

• [05:19–07:59]
  Reilly: "I always wear the brim up. Some people do this, but then... [wearing a Panama straw hat]...my work suit when I'm there... I wear my work suit when I'm there, my shortcoat."

Reilly elaborates on his admiration for brands like Mont St. Michel and his commitment to quality and functionality in clothing. He emphasizes the importance of investing in personal style rather than following fleeting trends.

• [08:51–10:31]
  Reilly: “Custom shirts... Anto in Los Angeles... '...every single time you put it on, you're like, oh, this is my shirt.'"

He advocates for self-expression through fashion, encouraging listeners to curate their own unique styles instead of relying solely on designer labels.

Clowns and Art

Reilly shares his interest in clowning and clown art, revealing a deeper understanding of the art form's layers and emotional depth. He fondly recalls his own experiences as a clown in his youth and appreciates amateur clown paintings for their portrayal of personality and emotion.

• [27:06–28:52]
  Reilly: “Clowns... there's a whole clown scene... the paintings I love the most are where you see the person inside there too, through their eyes or through their emotion.”

This segment highlights Reilly's appreciation for how art can capture the essence of individual experiences and personalities.

Working with Directors and Actors

The conversation shifts to Reilly's collaborations with legendary directors and actors, showcasing his respect and admiration for their craft. He mentions working with Brian De Palma, Tony Scott, Martin Scorsese, and Paul Thomas Anderson, highlighting the unique influences each has had on his career.

• [55:31–60:16]
  Reilly: “Brian De Palma, that was my first film... I owe my whole career to you and Brian and Art Linson.”

He fondly recalls his friendship with Paul Thomas Anderson and his admiration for Martin Scorsese's storytelling prowess.

• [57:49–60:16]
  Reilly: “Paul was... one of the first people that saw... I've been following you, and you have more to do.”

Reilly emphasizes the importance of supportive relationships in the industry and how these collaborations have shaped his professional journey.

Personal Stories and Life Philosophy

Reilly opens up about his childhood, sharing a humorous yet poignant story about stealing cereal from a train—a tale that underscores his mischievous side and reflects on his upbringing.

• [50:52–52:12]
  Reilly: “I smashed this lock off, which is a felony... we took like 500 boxes of Sugar Corn Pops... we'd have cereal parties in Bobby's basement.”

He discusses his Catholic upbringing and the moral lessons learned, illustrating how his early experiences have influenced his compassionate and empathetic nature.

• [49:16–50:44]
  Reilly: “I try to be honest with myself... Do unto others... Treat your brother as you would.”

Reilly shares his views on personal expression and authenticity, advocating for individuality over conformity, especially in the realms of fashion and personal style.

Vaudeville and Artistic Expression

A significant highlight of the interview is Reilly's discussion about his vaudeville show, "Mr. Romantic." He describes the show as a blend of romance and comedy, serving as a meditation on love and human connection.

• [43:09–46:05]
  Reilly: “It's a silly kind of playful vaudeville show... the whole show is like a meditation on love.”

He recounts the positive reception of the show, notably at South by Southwest in Austin, where audiences responded warmly to his heartfelt performances.

• [44:06–45:35]
  Reilly: “We just did our biggest show in Austin... the audience was literally like a sponge.”

Concluding Thoughts and Advice

Towards the end of the interview, Reilly offers constructive criticism to the hosts, emphasizing the importance of personal presentation and respect in public settings.

• [66:35–68:15]
  Reilly: “Make an effort... have some respect for the other people around you... care about what you look like before you leave the house... celebrate who you are.”

He concludes with reflections on empathy, beauty, and joy as essential elements for navigating the complexities of the modern world, tying back to his overarching humanist mission.

Notable Quotes

• [02:47]
  Reilly: "It is kind of better to be nominated than to win."

• [05:31]
  Reilly: "Custom shirts... every single time you put it on, you're like, oh, this is my shirt."

• [27:06]
  Reilly: "Clowns... they wear makeup and it's a very practical item... a walking air conditioner."

• [43:09]
  Reilly: “It's about human beings... human expression.”

• [66:35]
  Reilly: “Everything that I do these days is about trying to create empathy and trying to create beauty and trying to create joy.”

Conclusion

The interview with John C. Reilly on "Throwing Fits" provides an intimate glimpse into the actor's life, highlighting his commitment to authenticity, artistic expression, and personal integrity. Reilly's insights into fashion, his artistic projects, and his philosophical musings offer listeners a rich and engaging narrative that underscores his multifaceted persona. Through humor and heartfelt storytelling, Reilly not only entertains but also inspires, advocating for genuine self-expression and empathy in an increasingly complex world.