In a recent interview, actor George Clooney opened up about a challenging audition for the film Bram Stoker’s Dracula, directed by Francis Ford Coppola. Clooney expressed that Coppola’s reaction to his performance left him feeling “hurt.” This recollection offers insight into the pressures and vulnerabilities actors face during the audition process.
Clooney’s Audition Experience
At the red carpet premiere hosted by Jay Kelly, Clooney reflected on his audition for the 1992 film, which was based on Bram Stoker‘s 1897 novel. He described the experience as “terrible,” noting that he believed he had performed well and eagerly awaited feedback from his agent. However, he was disheartened to learn that Coppola perceived him as appearing “drunk” during the audition.
“Which I was not, but that cuts,” Clooney told Entertainment Weekly. “That hurt.” He explained that he had taken Percodan prior to the audition, which contributed to his relaxed demeanor, but he did not expect it would impact the director’s perception of him.
Despite his efforts, Clooney did not secure a role in the film. Ultimately, Bram Stoker’s Dracula featured a star-studded cast, including Gary Oldman, Winona Ryder, Anthony Hopkins, and Keanu Reeves, among others.
A Reflection on Method Acting
This is not the first time Clooney has discussed this audition. In 2016, he humorously recounted how he attempted a method-acting approach by intentionally trying to appear drunk for a character that was meant to be inebriated. His earlier strategy highlights the lengths to which actors may go to portray their roles authentically.
Bram Stoker’s Dracula was a significant commercial success, grossing approximately $215.8 million worldwide against a production budget of $40 million. The film received four Academy Award nominations, winning in the categories of Best Costume Design, Best Sound Editing, and Best Makeup.
Set in 19th-century England and Romania, the film tells the story of Count Dracula, who becomes enamored with Mina Murray, the fiancée of his solicitor, Jonathan Harker. Believing Mina to be the reincarnation of his long-lost wife, Elisabeta, Dracula’s pursuit leads to chaos, prompting vampire expert Abraham Van Helsing to intervene.
Clooney’s candid sharing of his audition experience serves as a reminder of the challenges that actors face, even those who have achieved significant success in Hollywood.
