Sam Rockwell Reflects on Film, Career, and Current Events

Hollywood, CA – Sam Rockwell, the 56-year-old Oscar-winning actor, engaged in an insightful conversation at Variety’s office after a panel discussion for HBO Max‘s new series. Known for his role as Frank in the show, Rockwell’s monologue about sex addiction resonated with audiences and went viral.

Upon entering the office, Rockwell noticed a magazine cover featuring director Ryan Coogler and actor Chadwick Boseman promoting ‘Black Panther.’ He expressed admiration for their work, remarking, “It was really interesting. I’m from the Bay Area, and he was talking about this experience watching a movie with his dad.”

When asked about his views on the box office hit ‘Black Panther,’ Rockwell confirmed, “Yes, I did. I really dug it.” He reflected on the advancements in technology in film since his work in the 2009 science fiction movie ‘Moon,’ where he played a man grappling with isolation.

Our conversation soon shifted to the current state of films. Rockwell praised the success of recent R-rated hits like ‘Sinners,’ stating, “It’s a big swing. And it made a lot of money, just like ‘Wonder Woman.’ That was a big swing, too.” He highlighted how unconventional films can succeed, citing ‘Birdman‘ and ‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest’ as examples.

During the interview, Rockwell spotted a Chucky doll on the shelf and jokingly suggested, “I’d get rid of that thing.” Discussing his peers, he spoke fondly of fellow actors such as Billy Crudup and Philip Seymour Hoffman, referring to Hoffman as “our guy.”

When the discussion turned political, Rockwell did not hold back, saying, “It’s a shit show. Man, I don’t even know where to begin. It’s not great.” He expressed that while he feels uncertain, he hopes to provide catharsis through his work.

On the topic of his long-time partner, actress Leslie Bibb, Rockwell’s demeanor brightened. “I’m so proud of her,” he said. He highlighted her current role in ‘The White Lotus,’ praising her ability to transform a potentially unlikable character into someone relatable.

Rockwell also clarified an internet rumor regarding his leopard-print underwear in ‘The White Lotus,’ laughing, “It’s a white-wall kind of thing. It was kind of funny underwear — very ’80s briefs.”

He mentioned his rigorous preparation for his monologue in ‘The White Lotus,’ linking it to a 10-page monologue he performed in another project. He described how he utilized online resources to find inspiration for his acting.

Looking ahead, Rockwell shared excitement for upcoming projects, including ‘Wild Horse Nine‘ and ‘Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die,’ the latter of which features innovative costume design. “It’s about a homeless guy from the future trying to go back in time to stop AI from getting out of control,” he explained.

While discussing his Emmy category placement for ‘The White Lotus,’ Rockwell acknowledged the complexities of awards submissions, expressing bemusement over being in a category with more established lead actors.

As the interview concluded, Rockwell fondly recalled impactful trailers, expressing a lingering fear from the ‘Alien’ teaser. “Just the sound of space and that tagline — ‘In space, no one can hear you scream.’ That’s all it needed,” he said with a grin. As he prepared to leave for the East Coast, Rockwell remained optimistic about the future of cinema.