Veteran actor William Forsythe, known for his work on Boardwalk Empire, recently discussed his experiences starring in the film The Roaring Game alongside Mickey Rourke and Darin Brooks. This project, written and directed by Tom DeNucci, blends humor and heart through the story of a down-on-his-luck janitor and an unlikely curling team.
The Underdog Tale Behind The Roaring Game
The Roaring Game follows Rickey Rhodes, played by Darin Brooks, a janitor who assembles an unconventional curling team of misfits to win back his love and claim victory. Forsythe expressed enthusiasm about the production, saying,
“I had a great time. I’ve worked with that team of people (that makes those films) before. I just love working on their movies!”
He noted the film’s old-school style, adding,
“It’s like an old-school style of filming. Everything that you get from being in that kind of community ends up on the screen, and that’s what I love about ‘The Roaring Game.’ It has a family vibe to it.”
Exploring the Role of Coach
William Forsythe delved into his portrayal of Coach, a complicated figure who works for “the man” and lives on the fringes of society.
“What makes Coach an interesting character is that he is low-end hood. He makes his living working for it… for the man,”
Forsythe explained. He acknowledged the character’s flaws, stating,
“There is this piece of heart in the coach. There is just something unique about him that just comes out. I mean, he’s the worst father ever.”
Despite Coach’s troubled background, Forsythe described pivotal moments that reveal his deeper side:
“Coach goes off to jail, and yet there was that one scene before he leaves where he is trying to cram 20 years’ worth of knowledge to the kid. Then, once we get hooked up and start going on the road with the curling team and every, it has a great payoff in terms of family and everything.”
He fondly recalled the role as
“such a fun character to play,”
adding,
“There were just some fabulous moments because he doesn’t care. Coach is just a wild man himself.”
Acting Alongside Mickey Rourke
Forsythe shared his admiration for working with Oscar nominee Mickey Rourke, who also stars in The Roaring Game.
“Mickey Rourke was great to work with too. I’ve known him for a very long time, and he is just so good in his craft,”
he said, underlining Rourke’s skill and professionalism on set.
Collaborating with Darin Brooks
On screen, Darin Brooks plays Forsythe’s character’s son, Rickey Rhodes. Forsythe praised Brooks for his talent and demeanor:
“Darin is great! I loved working with him. Darin is a complete gentleman. He has a lot of talent, and he carried the movie well.”
He expressed hope for future projects together, adding,
“I have nothing but good things to say about Darin. I hope to work with him again soon.”
Insights Gained from The Roaring Game Screenplay
Reflecting on the screenplay, Forsythe found the story relatable and compelling, especially its use of curling as an unusual backdrop.
“Well, I don’t know. It’s funny. When the guys first sent over this piece, I thought it was interesting especially with curling as a backdrop.”
The familiar underdog narrative resonated with him:
“It’s a familiar story about somebody who is an underdog and goes against all odds. He steps up and does something fantastic where my character fits in. That is probably what I took away from it.”
Nostalgia for Filmmaking’s Earlier Days
Discussing his career in the digital filmmaking era, Forsythe expressed a mix of appreciation and loss.
“I don’t know. I have to pull it. I miss some of the most amazing things such as shooting on film and all the things that went with it.”
He recalled a collaborative atmosphere present in past productions:
“One of the things I miss is when we would all gather for dailies and it would be semi uplifting, almost party atmosphere combined with this great place to make film better every day. We work together better than in the digital age. We don’t have any of that. We don’t have those kinds of things.”
Forsythe also commented on how digital technology has changed the movie-going experience:
“I love to feel and the look of film and I’m confused by it somewhat. The digital age seems to take away from the big joy.”
He added,
“I remember when a film would open on a Wednesday, and we would wait to go and see the movie, but now, you can get it in your hands at any time. I’m just not sure if it works that well for the magic.”
A New Chapter Fueled by Drive
When asked about the current phase of his life, Forsythe used one word: “Compulsion!” He described his motivation, saying, “I’m driven right now.” He expressed optimism about his future projects:
“I feel that the best is yet to come! I feel like I’m on a road right now, and that something really good is happening. I’m ready to make my own films.”
Forsythe revealed his enthusiasm for producing his own work, sharing,
“This is something that I’ve always wanted to do, and I’ve got a good piece and got some great people backing me up. So, I’m excited as hell.”
Guidance for Aspiring Actors
Offering advice to those starting in the acting world, Forsythe encouraged persistent effort and the right mindset.
“Keep on going! You have to try! For me, I don’t like to give too much advice, but I can say that it’s important to surround yourself with like-minded people.”
Emphasizing dedication, he stated, “Work extremely hard.”
He highlighted the value of humility and commitment:
“Don’t take anything for granted. Also, whenever I talk to young people I tell them not to overestimate themselves and don’t underestimate what they are doing. Always play to in, always do your very best, and live small.”
What Success Means to William Forsythe
Forsythe defined success through the lens of passion rather than commercial gain. He said,
“Success, for me, is just the ability to continue to do what I love so much. I love the process of the work. I don’t care about the business.”
He added,
“I don’t care about a lot of things that go along with it. What I care about is the fact that you get to keep on going and you get to keep doing what you love to do.”
He also found inspiration in interactions with fans:
“Also, sometimes people surprise me when I’ll meet a fan and they’ll say something to me that is very touching… that really hits the heart.”
Reinforcing his view, he said,
“Success is the ability to keep on going.”
Inviting Viewers into The Roaring Game Experience
Closing his remarks about the film, Forsythe expressed hope that audiences will embrace its spirit.
“I want people to have fun! Try to get behind these brothers, the dad, and his whole crew of misfits. Everyone is just from a different place, so I hope they enjoy it, and take this ride with us.”
