Gary Oldman has long been regarded as one of the most versatile and talented actors of his generation. Known for his transformative roles and powerful performances, he has captivated audiences for over four decades. However, as he continues to shine in his latest project, "Slow Horses," questions about recognition and the nature of his career have come to the forefront. This blog explores Oldman's illustrious journey, his recent work, and the peculiarities of his career that make him a unique figure in the entertainment industry.
1. A Career Marked by Diverse Roles
Oldman's career is a testament to his remarkable range as an actor. From playing iconic characters like Sid Vicious in "Sid and Nancy" to the infamous Count Dracula, he has embraced a variety of roles that showcase his ability to inhabit different personas. His portrayal of Lee Harvey Oswald in "JFK" and Jim Gordon in "The Dark Knight" trilogy further solidified his reputation as a leading man capable of handling complex characters.
In recent years, Oldman achieved critical acclaim for his role as Winston Churchill in "Darkest Hour," for which he won the Academy Award for Best Actor. Yet, despite this recognition, he finds himself in a peculiar position regarding accolades from the British honours system.
2. Overlooked by the Honours System
While many of his contemporaries have received knighthoods or other royal accolades following their Oscar wins, Oldman remains conspicuously absent from this list. He has expressed confusion over this oversight, stating, “I don’t know why. You should ask them.” This feeling of being overlooked extends to the fact that he is the only British actor to have won the Best Actor Oscar this century without receiving any form of honour.
His career has been punctuated by numerous awards, including BAFTAs and Golden Globes, yet the lack of a royal nod has been a source of intrigue. Oldman has firmly denied any suggestions that he turned down an honour, insisting, “no” repeatedly when asked. This raises questions about the criteria used by the honours system and why some deserving individuals are left out.
3. The Success of "Slow Horses"
Oldman's latest venture, "Slow Horses," has been a significant success, garnering a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. The series, which follows a group of dysfunctional MI5 agents, has been praised for its sharp writing and dark humor. Oldman plays Jackson Lamb, a character who is as unkempt as he is cunning, often found insulting his colleagues more than engaging in espionage.
The show has been described as an "anti Bond" series, offering a gritty and realistic portrayal of espionage, quite different from the glamorous world of James Bond. Oldman himself humorously notes that his character's hygiene is lacking, stating, “He’s a whisky drinker, so obviously, that’s sort of coming out of the pores.” This self deprecating humor is a hallmark of Oldman’s approach to his craft, making him relatable to audiences.
4. The Unconventional Approach to Character
Oldman's dedication to his characters is evident in the thought he puts into even the most trivial details. For instance, discussions about the frequency and sound of his character's flatulence have become a running joke among the cast and crew. “These are the conversations and email exchanges that you have with the director,” he laughs, showcasing his willingness to embrace the absurdity of his role.
This level of commitment to character development is not new for Oldman. He has always immersed himself in the roles he plays, often going to great lengths to understand the intricacies of his characters. Whether it’s researching historical figures or adopting specific mannerisms, Oldman’s approach is both meticulous and creative.
5. Family Ties in the Industry
Interestingly, Oldman's family has also made a mark in the entertainment industry. His sister, Laila Morse, is known for her long standing role in the soap opera "EastEnders." Oldman has expressed pride in his sister's accomplishments and maintains a supportive relationship with her career. He humorously notes that while both are in the acting profession, they inhabit different worlds: “She’s got the Square, and I’ve got Slough House, so we’re quite happy where we are.”
This familial connection to the industry adds another layer to Oldman’s narrative, showcasing the diverse paths that can lead to success in acting. It also highlights the relatability of Oldman as someone who understands the challenges and triumphs of a sibling in the same field.
6. Looking Ahead
As "Slow Horses" prepares for its fourth season, Oldman’s future in the series looks promising, with discussions about a potential fifth season already underway. The show’s creator has hinted at the possibility of extending the series further, depending on audience demand and the source material available from author Mick Herron.
Oldman’s enthusiasm for the role and the series itself is palpable. He has expressed his commitment to continue as long as the show remains engaging and well received. The actor’s willingness to embrace a long running television series is a departure from his previous film centric career, marking a significant evolution in his professional journey.
Conclusion
Gary Oldman’s career is a rich tapestry of remarkable performances, intriguing choices, and a touch of humor that endears him to fans. As he navigates the complexities of recognition in the industry and embraces new challenges, his journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring actors and fans alike. Whether he receives the accolades he deserves from the honours system or not, Oldman’s impact on film and television is undeniable. With "Slow Horses" continuing to capture the audience's imagination, it is clear that Gary Oldman is not only a master of his craft but also a beloved figure in contemporary entertainment.