Andrew Garfield Reflects on Life After Spider-Man
Ralph Fiennes and Andrew Garfield.
Filming took place on the eve of the pandemic, with the cast and crew confined to an enclosed space for the duration of the shoot after five days of rehearsal, in a microcosm of the real world amidst the anxieties that were rapidly multiplying.
Andrew Garfield, known for his captivating portrayal of Spider-Man in two Sony Pictures films and a reprise in a Marvel Studios crossover, found himself at the Marrakech Film Festival as a member of the jury. During a thoughtfully posed question phase, the actor opened up about his experiences since stepping away from the iconic superhero role.
“I had to really put in the hard work to get people to stop asking me about Spider-Man,” he shared, reflecting on the intense period following those standout web-slinging performances.
“Every single question, every press conference, every movie project, it was all ‘Spider-Man’ this and ‘Spider-Man’ that,” Garfield continued, a hint of weariness hinting through his words. “After a while, it was tiring, you know… constantly being associated with that one role.”
### The Long Shadow of a Web-Slinger
Despite the challenges of shedding his superhero skin, Garfield acknowledges the profound impact of playing Spider-Man. ”
“I’m still working on it, obviously,” he admitted.
“It’s an imperfect process. But I’m very grateful for that period of my career. It allowed me to fulfill a childhood dream—let’s face it, playing Spider-Man is truly a dream come true. But it also opened up doors. Imagine starring alongside Martin Scorsese in ‘Silence’ in 2016!”
Garfield’s journey highlights the delicate balance many actors face, navigating the desire to explore diverse creative avenues while carrying a role so pervasive, it risks eclipsing all others in the public consciousness.
### Embracing New Horizons
Today, Garfield’s career exemplifies this balance. He’s chosen roles that showcase his versatile talent in vibrant dramas, musicals, and independent films.
His dedication to diverse and compelling projects speaks volumes about his artistry and refusal to be confined by expectations. Clearly, his work, much like his life, embraces growth and multifaceted exploration.
How has Andrew Garfield’s acting career evolved since his role as Spider-Man?
## Andrew Garfield Reflects on Life After Spider-Man
**Host:** Welcome back to the show! Today, we have the incredibly talented Andrew Garfield joining us. Andrew, thank you so much for being here.
**Andrew Garfield:** It’s a pleasure to be here!
**Host:** You’ve had quite the journey these past few years, transitioning from the iconic role of Spider-Man to more serious, dramatic roles, such as your chilling performance in “Under the Banner of Heaven”. Has it been a conscious decision to explore different genres?
**Andrew Garfield:** Absolutely. While I deeply cherish my time as Spider-Man and the joy it brought fans, I’ve always been drawn to exploring the complexities of the human experience through diverse roles. [[1](https://ew.com/tv/andrew-garfield-under-the-banner-of-heaven-interview/)]
“Under the Banner of Heaven” was a particularly challenging but rewarding experience. It forced me to delve into the darkest corners of faith and fundamentalism, which was both daunting and deeply insightful.
**Host:** Speaking of challenging experiences, we know filming for ”Under the Banner of Heaven” took place right before the pandemic hit. Was that intense filming environment in any way reflective of the uncertainty and anxieties the world was facing?
**Andrew Garfield:** (chuckles) It definitely felt like we were living in a bubble, isolated from the outside world. We were in a confined space for an extended period, working closely together, which mirrored the anxieties many were experiencing as the pandemic unfolded. It was an intense and strangely prescient experience.
**Host:** It sounds like a truly unique filmmaking journey. Now, with “Spider-Man” behind you, what kind of roles are you drawn to now?
**Andrew Garfield:**
I’m always looking for stories that challenge me as an actor and offer a glimpse into the human condition. I want to tell stories that provoke thought, spark conversation, and maybe even offer a bit of comfort and connection in these complex times.
**Host:** Well, we can’t wait to see what compelling characters you bring to life next! Andrew Garfield, thank you so much for your time and insights.
**Andrew Garfield:** Thank you for having me.
