Interview: Wallace Shawn Muses About His Career Longevity

It goes without saying, but Wallace Shawn has been in at least one movie that you love. Whether it’s The Princess Bride, his voice work in the Toy Story franchise, or any number of other projects, Shawn is a comforting part of cinema. You don’t get that kind of career appreciation and longevity without being a talent, and it’s indisputable that Shawn is one. So, when the opportunity came along for me to get on a Zoom call to talk with him about his latest Woody Allen collaboration, Rifkin’s Festival, it was the kind of thing I couldn’t turn down. Today, that discussion comes your way…

This is some of what I had to say about him in my Rifkin’s Festival review:

Wallace Shawn rarely gets to be a leading man, so there’s something fun about seeing that. While the rest of the players here are fine, he’s really the only one getting too much to do. It’s the sort of role you’re expecting, but Shawn’s delivery does set it apart a bit. His scenes with Elena Anaya and Gina Gershon do pop, though.

Below, you can see my chat with Shawn. It’s a broad conversation, mostly just content to be about his thoughts on his career. He’s an incredibly easy guy to talk to, whip smart but also quick to shrug off overt praise. Talking to him was an experience, so I’ll just let you see for yourself now…

Here now is my interview with actor and Rifkin’s Festival star Wallace Shawn. Enjoy:

Rifkin’s Festival is in theaters now!