The article highlights Gene Hackman's transformative approach to acting, illustrated by his intense preparation for pivotal film scenes. In 'The French Connection,' Hackman, after initially failing to capture the necessary intensity, took 37 takes to master a crucial scene. His collaboration with director William Friedkin was essential, especially as they accessed Hackman's dormant emotions. Similarly, Hackman's reservation about playing Little Bill Daggett in 'Unforgiven' resulted in a pivotal Oscar-winning role, demonstrating his capacity to embrace complex characters that challenge traditional narratives.
I had to arouse an anger in Gene that was lying dormant, I felt, within him - that he was sort of ashamed of and didn't really want to revisit.
To his credit, and my joy, he talked me into it,
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