Sam Rockwell on The White Lotus Leopard Briefs, and Loving Sinners

Sam Rockwell is deep in thought as he enters the Variety office, the morning after an engaging panel discussion for HBO Max’s “The White Lotus.” In this acclaimed series, he plays Frank, a former associate who delivered a poignant monologue about sex addiction and identity in a recent episode, making quite the impact on viewers and cementing a memorable moment in the show.

At 56, this Oscar-winning actor has a wealth of experience behind him, and that depth was palpable as he conversed about his craft, his thoughts on contemporary cinema, and even his partner, Leslie Bibb, who is garnering Emmy buzz for her role in “The White Lotus.” Rockwell exuded pride for her performance, emphasizing how she transformed a challenging character into a relatable figure.

Sam Rockwell’s conversation touched on a wide array of topics, including his excitement for the film “Sinners,” a box-office success that is already stirring Oscar buzz. He looked back fondly on his early career with a reflection on his involvement in Duncan Jones’ 2009 film “Moon,” a groundbreaking project for its time that used innovative technology to depict dual roles played by Rockwell. He appreciated how cinematic technology has evolved, allowing filmmakers to convey more complex narratives in exciting ways.

When discussing modern cinema, Rockwell pointed out the rising visibility of risk-taking films like “Sinners”. He noted the film’s success despite its rated R status and its blend of genres, with comparisons to classics like “From Dusk Till Dawn” and “Devil in a Blue Dress.” Rockwell finds hope in these unconventional successes. He mentioned how unlikely films like “Birdman” and “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” managed to captivate audiences, even when their premises seemed too bold to succeed.

The conversation took a serious turn when the discussion veered into the current socio-political climate. Rockwell candidly shared his frustrations about the state of the country, describing it as a “shit show.” When asked if he holds onto hope, Sam Rockwell’s response hinted at the challenges facing entertainers like him, stating the desire to provide catharsis through art, particularly in tumultuous times.

An amusing moment arose when Rockwell cleared up a rumor regarding his character’s leopard-print briefs in “The White Lotus.” He confirmed they weren’t women’s underwear but a tongue-in-cheek homage to Richard Gere in “American Gigolo.” He admitted he picked the most outrageous option from a selection of choices, showcasing his fun-loving spirit even within serious contexts.

Rockwell prepared extensively for his monologue in “The White Lotus,” bolstered by his recent work in other theatrical projects. His dedication involved practicing a series of monologues, including preparing for roles that demanded rapid dialogue. The internet proved to be a valuable resource; Rockwell explored iconic film scenes to enhance his skills, showcasing the vast array of accessible material that benefits actors today.

Looking ahead, he is excited about several upcoming projects, including “Wild Horse Nine,” directed by Martin McDonagh, and another film titled “Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die,” in which he wears an elaborate 40-pound suit designed for the role. He also expressed lingering hope for a biopic about Merle Haggard, a project that has been in development for some time.

As they discussed the intricacies of award categories, Rockwell noted his unique position in the Emmy race with his role in “The White Lotus.” Though his involvement spanned four episodes, he faced overlapping dynamics with others in the supporting category, revealing a nuanced understanding of the industry’s competitive evaluations.

Throughout the conversation, it became evident that Rockwell, while grounded in his accomplishments and experiences, maintains a refreshing perspective on the evolving landscape of cinema. His passion for storytelling remains steadfast, as does his belief in the enduring power of art to resonate with audiences.

With a career built on versatility and dedication, Sam Rockwell remains a vital voice in Hollywood today. As he prepares to return to the East Coast, one can’t help but feel a sense of optimism for not just his future projects, but also the future of cinema itself, as it continues to adapt and thrive despite challenges. With each performance, Rockwell reaffirms that the spirit of storytelling will undoubtedly prevail.

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