I consider ending my filming career every day, Al Pacino says

Reha Erus VENICE

Oscar-winning actor Al Pacino has said he thinks of ending his film career every day – always to succumb to the “temptation” of continuing on with another film.

Hürriyet interviewed Pacino during the Venice Film Festival where he participated with “The Humbling.” The American actor, who has been invited to Turkey’s Golden Orange Film Festival, stated that he would like to visit the country one day.

You portray a depressed theatrical actor in “The Humbling.” Have you ever been in that situation in your life?

Thankfully, I had never been in depression. I do not even like to use the word “depression.” I have three children. They give me life. I am on a great journey. It’s good to be alive. It’s actually meaningful for them to give me a role in which I am depressed.

You repeat that you love living at every chance…

I can’t deny I’ve had darker times in my life. I, like everyone, have had crises, too. But I was able to overcome these. I am 74 and I admire the youth. Enthusiasm is my nourishment.

You said “My children give life to me.” How does it feel to be a father?

It’s great. My three children illuminate me. They are with me wherever I go. I am very, very lucky.

What can you say about Robin Williams, who passed away in August? You shared a role with him in the film “Insomnia.”

I felt very bad when I heard it. He was sad, shy and silent on the set. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to understand his mood.



Have you ever thought of quitting work?

I looked in the mirror this morning in Venice. I have an allergy in my eye, I saw myself blurred. And yes, I thought of ending my film career. I am thinking of it almost every day. I wake up and look at the mirror and say: “OK, I will quit the silver screen.” But then I give into the temptation saying: “Don’t do it. You can’t do without cinema. It not the time to land this plane yet.”

The protagonist of the film “The Humbling,” Simon Axler, forgets his lines. Has that ever happened to you?

Of course! You do get confused for a moment. You even forget where you are. No actor is perfect.

Do you think that this film will win you an Oscar nomination?

The director Barry Levinson is trying to get that in my mind. Who wouldn’t want an Oscar? There is this desire in one corner of my mind.

You’ve played in many films. Is there any character which is important for you?

Tony Montana from “Scarface.” He was a great character. Then, Michael Corleone from the “Godfather.” The character from “Serpicio” also influenced me.

You have been invited to the 51st Antalya Golden Orange Festival as a “guest of honor.” Are you going to participate?

Frankly, I’ve never been to Turkey. Why not? My managers are talking on this subject. I hope it does not clash with any other activities I have.





Translated by Yunus Yüzsüren