In Hollywood, it is becoming increasingly common for an actor to transition from being in front of the camera to going behind the scenes to make decisions in a film’s director position. Their debut on the big screen often comes with positive reviews from critics and audiences as well as numerous nominations during awards season.
Let's take a look at some of the actors who took the big leap and went on to direct a feature film:
Channing Tatum: the actor, who previously participated in films such as Logan Lucky and Side Effects, has now starred in and co-directed Dog, a film that tells the story of Briggs, who ventures across the country with his Belgian shepherd, Lulu. The two will travel the Pacific coast in hopes of arriving in time for his best friend's funeral. This touching story is inspired by Lulu, Channing’s dog who sadly passed away a few years ago due to cancer. This way, Channing Tatum found a special way to continue her legacy.
Andy Serkis: he is one of the most innovative actors in the film industry and he stood out mainly for playing characters digitally through motion capture, for example, Gollum in The Lord of the Rings and Caesar in Planet of the Apes. He brought his originality when he made his directorial debut in Breathe, a film based on a true story that follows the adventurous and charismatic Robin Cavendish. Even though he has his whole life ahead of him, he becomes paralyzed when he contracts polio while traveling in Africa. Against all advice, Robin's wife Diana gets him out of the hospital and takes him home where his devotion and resourceful determination transcend disability.
Tom Hanks: being one of the most celebrated performers of recent times, he has also dared to step behind the camera. Tom Hanks participated in episodes of different series from the nineties until he had the opportunity to direct the film That Thing You Do! (1996). One of his latest projects as a film director was Larry Crowne, a film that tells the story of a former soldier, a simple man who has every reason to think his life has come to a standstill. Yet he is surprised by an unexpected lesson: just when he thinks everything worthwhile has passed him by, he can find a reason for living again.
Stay tuned for more movie suggestions!
