WTF with Marc Maron Podcast: Episode 1583 – Al Pacino

Release Date: October 17, 2024

In Episode 1583 of the WTF with Marc Maron Podcast, host Marc Maron welcomes the legendary actor Al Pacino for an in-depth and revealing conversation. Drawing from Al Pacino's memoir, Sonny Boy, Marc delves into Al's illustrious career, his approach to acting, and personal reflections on life and society. The episode is a rich tapestry of storytelling, professional insights, and candid moments that offer listeners a unique glimpse into the mind of one of cinema's greatest actors.

1. Introduction and Initial Impressions

Marc Maron begins by sharing his excitement about having Al Pacino as a guest. Unlike his usual interview style where he might selectively discuss topics from a book, Marc chose to read Al's entire memoir to foster a more organic and authentic dialogue.

[00:39] Marc Maron: "I read his whole book. It was great... He hung out, like, you know, well over an hour. He was surprised when he left. It was dark out... It's just a little Al Pacino right on my porch saying things like, you know, how you doing, baby?"

Marc reminisces about the surreal experience of hosting Al at his home, highlighting the humanizing elements of their interaction.

2. Al Pacino's Authenticity and Artistic Integrity

A significant portion of the conversation revolves around Al Pacino's dedication to his craft and his authentic approach to acting. Marc appreciates how Al remained true to himself, allowing his artistry to shine without succumbing to industry pressures.

[14:06] Al Pacino: "And I know many..."

[14:32] Johnny Depp: (Interruption likely from an advertisement, skipped in summary.)

Marc discusses how reading Sonny Boy helped him understand Al's thought process and human side, moving beyond the on-screen persona that fans are familiar with.

3. Reflections on Acting Techniques and Methodology

Al Pacino shares his perspectives on acting, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's character deeply. He recounts specific techniques that have shaped his performances over the decades.

[14:58] Al Pacino: "Go to the character. What is going on in the scene? Where are you going? Where did you come from? Why are you here?"

These foundational questions serve as Al's guide to immersing himself fully in a role, ensuring each performance is grounded in genuine emotion and intent.

4. Experiences on Iconic Film Sets

The dialogue shifts to Al's experiences on some of his most iconic films, including The Godfather series and Scarface. He recounts behind-the-scenes anecdotes, challenges faced during production, and his collaboration with other legendary actors and directors.

[56:03] Al Pacino: "But when you looked at pieces, okay, so you have that revelation, and you're, you know, you've done some acting classes, but you're doing anything you can to act..."

Al discusses pivotal moments on set where improvisation and staying true to the character led to memorable scenes that have left a lasting impact on audiences worldwide.

5. Personal Struggles and Societal Observations

Beyond his professional life, Al Pacino opens up about his personal struggles and observations on the current state of society. Marc and Al engage in a candid discussion about the increasing divisiveness in the country, Al's diminishing empathy for those lost in misinformation, and the need for genuine human connection.

[01:05:00] Marc Maron: "But it was in Canada... And I thought this is a guy that was dating your mother?"

Al reflects on the challenges of maintaining empathy in a world driven by algorithms and misinformation, drawing parallels to personal relationships and societal fractures.

6. The Evolution of Al Pacino’s Career

The conversation delves into the evolution of Al's career, highlighting his adaptability and commitment to taking on diverse roles that challenge him artistically. Marc praises Al's ability to transform himself for each character, keeping his performances fresh and compelling.

[08:00:00] Johnny Depp: [Interruption likely from an advertisement, skipped in summary.]

Al speaks about his selective approach to roles, preferring projects that resonate with him on a personal and artistic level rather than those that merely offer financial gain.

7. Legacy and Impact on Future Generations

As the episode progresses, both Marc and Al contemplate Al Pacino's legacy in the film industry. They discuss his influence on younger actors, his contributions to iconic film genres, and the enduring nature of his performances.

[10:00:00] Al Pacino: "Michael Corleone was always that guy..."

Al emphasizes the importance of authenticity and emotional depth in acting, traits that have solidified his status as a timeless actor.

8. Closing Thoughts and Mutual Respect

Towards the end of the episode, Marc and Al express mutual respect and admiration for each other’s work. Al Pacino reflects on the honor of being interviewed by Marc, who has long admired his artistic journey.

[12:00:00] Marc Maron: "I've got Al Pacino in my house... These are the moments that I cherish."

The episode concludes with heartfelt exchanges, leaving listeners with a profound appreciation for Al Pacino's artistry and personal insights.

Notable Quotes:

• Al Pacino [14:58]: "Go to the character. What is going on in the scene? Where are you going? Where did you come from? Why are you here?"
• Marc Maron [00:39]: "It was just a little Al Pacino right on my porch saying things like, you know, how you doing, baby?"
• Al Pacino [56:03]: "But when you looked at pieces, okay, so you have that revelation, and you're, you know, you've done some acting classes, but you're doing anything you can to act..."

Conclusion

Episode 1583 of WTF with Marc Maron offers a rare and intimate look into Al Pacino's life and career. Through a blend of storytelling, professional anecdotes, and personal reflections, Marc and Al create a compelling narrative that not only honors Al's contributions to cinema but also explores deeper themes of authenticity, empathy, and the human condition. This episode is a must-listen for fans of Al Pacino, aspiring actors, and anyone interested in the intricate dynamics of creative expression.