Steven Spielberg, the legendary director behind iconic films like E.T. and Jurassic Park, has a career filled with memorable and emotionally charged scenes. However, one particular moment from his film 'Lincoln' left an indelible mark on him, causing him to break down in tears on set. During a recent appearance at South By Southwest, Spielberg shared the story behind this powerful scene, revealing the depth of emotion it evoked.
The scene in question involves Daniel Day-Lewis's portrayal of Abraham Lincoln, as he passionately delivers a four-minute speech to his cabinet about the urgency of passing the 13th Amendment to abolish slavery. Spielberg described it as a 'two-shot, moving scene,' with the camera slowly moving from the end of the table to a close-up of David Strathairn as Secretary of State Seward. This speech, according to Spielberg, was a turning point in the film's production.
Spielberg's emotional reaction to the scene was not just a result of the powerful performance but also the personal connection it evoked. He revealed that it took him years to convince Day-Lewis to take on the role of Lincoln, and the actor's dedication to the character was remarkable. Day-Lewis's commitment to the role extended to his on-set behavior, as he insisted on being addressed as 'Mr. Lincoln' or 'Mr. President' even when not in character.
The most poignant moment, however, occurred after the first take of the speech. Spielberg, overcome with emotion, had to leave the set. Day-Lewis, sensing his director's distress, entered the room in character and comforted Spielberg. As Spielberg recounted, 'Mr. Lincoln walked into the room, saw me crying, sat down near me, and put his arms around me.' This unexpected act of empathy from an Oscar-winning actor, all while in character, left a lasting impression on Spielberg.
This incident highlights the unique bond that can form between a director and an actor when they are fully immersed in their respective roles. Spielberg's emotional response to the scene underscores the power of cinema to evoke deep feelings and the importance of authenticity in the creative process. It also serves as a reminder that the magic of filmmaking lies not only in the final product but also in the human connections formed during the journey to bring a story to life.
