Published Nov 15, 2018

Episode 968 - Michael Douglas

Marc Maron delves into Michael Douglas's illustrious career and personal life, exploring his transition from television to film, the complexities of his famous lineage, and his resilience through health battles. Douglas shares profound insights into Hollywood's evolution, contrasting traditional mediums with streaming platforms, and offers a reflective look at industry dynamics and award show culture.
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Episode Highlights

  • Streaming Shift

    Michael Douglas shares his perspective on the evolving landscape of film and television, highlighting the shift from traditional theatrical releases to streaming platforms. He notes that while smaller films often struggle with limited theater runs and marketing budgets, streaming services like Netflix and Amazon provide a built-in audience and financial stability 1. "I now enjoy the streaming area because solitary man and another picture called King of California, where you bust your ass, you work for nothing," Michael explains, emphasizing the advantages of streaming over theatrical releases.

    I now enjoy the streaming area because solitary man and another picture called King of California, where you bust your ass, you work for nothing.

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    He also appreciates the creative freedom in television's new era, where writers can become showrunners and explore diverse storytelling without the constraints of traditional formats 2.

       

    Hollywood Reflections

    Reflecting on Hollywood's past, Michael Douglas reminisces about the more autonomous and carefree nature of award shows in the 70s and 80s. He recalls the Golden Globes as a wild event, filled with antics that were later tamed by television broadcasts 3. "It was insane. Between, you know, between amount of drinking was going on, what was going on in the bathrooms," he recalls, highlighting the stark contrast to today's polished ceremonies.

    It was insane. Between, you know, between amount of drinking was going on, what was going on in the bathrooms.

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    In discussing acting, Michael reveals the dual nature of the craft, where one either puts on a character mask or strips down to raw authenticity. He shares how embracing the art of lying freed him from the constraints of reality, allowing him to fully immerse in his roles 4.

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