A Tribute to an Unforgettable Talent: Robert Duvall's Enduring Legacy
The Unconventional Genius of a 'Marvelous Actor'
Robert Duvall, an acclaimed Oscar and Emmy laureate, was a truly singular individual, both on and off the cinematic stage. His distinct personality, coupled with a wide array of passions, never overshadowed his profound commitment to his craft. Director Walter Hill, who collaborated with Duvall on the 2006 miniseries "Broken Trail" and the 1993 Western "Geronimo: An American Legend," fondly recalls Duvall as a "marvelous actor."
A Director's Fond Recollections: Professionalism and Friendship
Walter Hill shared with Variety his privilege of directing Duvall on two separate occasions. He described Duvall as an extraordinary actor and an unusual character. While their professional journey sometimes had its challenging moments, Hill believes that everyone benefited from Duvall's contributions over the years. Hill always held immense respect for Duvall's acting prowess, and their working relationship evolved into a genuine friendship.
Duvall's Commanding Presence on Set
Duvall possessed an inherent authority that commanded attention in any environment, despite not fitting the conventional image or vocal archetype of a leading man. Hill observed that Duvall consistently elevated the performances of those around him through his professionalism and high expectations. He asserted that Duvall's unique ability to captivate audiences was a mysterious and profound aspect of his talent, defying simple definition.
An Actor's Method: Dedication and Conviction
Hill acknowledged that Duvall's acting process could, at times, be frustrating for directors. Once Duvall committed to a specific interpretation of a role, altering his approach proved to be a significant challenge. However, this steadfastness ensured that Duvall poured his heart and soul into every scene. Hill noted that Duvall preferred minimal rehearsal, arriving on set with a clear understanding of his character, and was less receptive to directorial input on nuances like character interpretation or line delivery. Yet, he remained highly cooperative when it came to staging, never resisting directional suggestions in that regard.
The Multifaceted Life of Robert Duvall: Beyond the Screen
Hill's initial encounter with Duvall occurred during the production of the 1968 film "Bullitt," where Hill served as second assistant director. Duvall, with a minor role, frequently experienced rescheduled shooting days, leading to considerable downtime in San Francisco, often spent playing tennis. It was during this period that Hill recognized Duvall's genuinely quirky nature. His interests spanned from equestrian pursuits to the delights of Italian cuisine and an impressive talent for the tango. During the filming of "Broken Trail" in Calgary, Duvall even brought his personal chef, funding the arrangement himself. Hill vividly remembers Duvall's eclectic passions, particularly his love for Italian and Spanish food, and his unexpected skill in the tango, underscoring the surprising depth of his personality.
Equestrian Pride and the Success of 'Broken Trail'
Duvall took immense pride in his achievements, both on and off screen. Hill recounted a candid conversation during the filming of "Broken Trail" where Duvall questioned who Hill considered Hollywood's finest horseman. After Hill mentioned Sam Elliott and the Carradine brothers, Duvall confidently declared his own superiority and exited the room, revealing his undeniable ego. "Broken Trail," a two-part miniseries, premiered on AMC in June 2006 to considerable success, proving that compelling programming could attract a large audience, a revelation for a channel then known primarily for classic films. This success paved the way for AMC's future hits like "Mad Men" and "Breaking Bad."
From Concept to Acclaim: Duvall's Vision for 'Broken Trail'
Duvall had initially developed "Broken Trail" as a feature film through his production company before adapting it into a two-part miniseries for AMC. Hill, renowned for his stylish 1980s films such as "48 Hours" and "Streets of Fire," was selected to direct due to his expertise in Westerns. The miniseries depicted a group of cowboys in the Northwest who become protectors of young Chinese women from a human trafficking operation.
Awards and Humility: Duvall's Legacy
"Broken Trail" garnered an Emmy for Best Miniseries, and both Duvall and his co-star Thomas Haden Church received acting Emmys. During production, Duvall was fiercely protective of the material, feeling a profound responsibility for its realization. However, Hill noted that Duvall was not one to boast about his accolades. Instead, he would quietly accept the recognition, believing justice had been served, and then shift his focus to his next project. Duvall was never one for ostentation; his sole preoccupation was his unwavering dedication to his career.