John Lithgow on Family, Acceptance, adn the power of a compelling Story
John Lithgow, renowned for his captivating stage and screen presence, is currently experiencing a professional high point. Adding to his recent accolades, Lithgow is set to star in Sophie Hyde’s “Jimpa,” a powerful drama opening the 2025 Sundance Film Festival.
In “Jimpa,” Lithgow portrays a fictionalized version of Hyde’s own father, Jim.The film delves into the complexities of family dynamics, exploring themes of sexuality and acceptance as Jim comes to terms with his own identity.
Olivia Colman plays Hannah, Jim’s daughter, a filmmaker grappling with the fractured legacy of her parents’ marriage and the lasting impact of her father’s coming out. Their lives intersect as Hannah returns home to Amsterdam to discuss a film project centered around her parents’ relationships. The film beautifully mirrors Hyde’s own life, with her 19-year-old child,Aud Mason-Hyde,portraying Frances,Hannah’s transgender,non-binary child.
Lithgow, swept away by “Jimpa’s” poignant script, shared his admiration for Hyde during a recent interview. “I was captivated by the script,” he confessed. “I could just tell that this was intensely personal to Sophie.” Lithgow’s initial acquaintance with Hyde’s work was limited to her critically acclaimed film, “Good Luck To You Leo Grande,” which he lauded for its “extraordinary forthrightness of her vision and even her technique.” In Lithgow’s view, Emma Thompson delivers one of her finest performances in the film.
Encouraged by his enthusiasm, Lithgow’s agent suggested a Zoom call with Hyde. He recalls,”‘Oh,I am going to do this,but I am going to pretend that I need to be persuaded. Let me have a Zoom with this woman.’ And we had just the most…”, he trailed off, a hint of a smile playing on his lips.
John Lithgow: Embracing the Evolution of Freedom in “Jimpa”
john Lithgow, the celebrated actor known for his captivating performances in both film and television, recently starred in “Jimpa,” a film that explores the evolving landscape of LGBTQ+ rights in Australia. In a heartfelt and insightful conversation, Lithgow delves into his experience portraying Jimpa, a character who embodies the spirit of a generation that fought for acceptance and liberation.
Lithgow, who is known for his meticulous attention to detail, embarked on an immersive journey to fully inhabit the role.He spent time working with dialect coaches to master both the New Zealand and Australian accents, immersing himself in the cultural nuances of both countries. As he reflects on this experience, he quips, “And by now, I’ve forgotten both dialects, so don’t ask me to talk that way.”
His dedication to authenticity shines through in his portrayal of Jimpa, a character who acts as a mentor and guide to Frances, a younger generation navigating a world vastly different from the one Jimpa grew up in.
“There is always a generational gap between the third and second generation,” Lithgow observes, “but then you add the first generation, and it’s even more of a gulf, I think. But Jim absolutely adores of Frances,always has. And I think he is the person in their life who is the most accepting and the most almost exuberant about their self-liberation.”
The film tackles complex themes of societal change,personal growth,and the enduring power of love and acceptance.It’s a poignant reminder of the strides made in the fight for LGBTQ+ equality while together acknowledging that the journey is far from over.
An Exploration of Identity: Exploring “Someone Like You.”
Jim, a seasoned actor, embodies the complexities of human experience in the film “Someone Like You,” portraying a man who embarks on a transformative journey of self-finding. Jimpa, the character he portrays, navigates the labyrinth of gender identity with courage and candor, challenging societal norms and expectations.
Jim describes Jimpa as someone who has “been through the entire spectrum himself,” having experienced a heterosexual marriage and fatherhood before ultimately embracing his true self. This journey is depicted with a captivating blend of honesty and vulnerability, highlighting the internal struggles and triumphs that often accompany such profound personal growth.
“He was always very devoted to his daughters and to his wife. But it just became his determination: ‘Now I’m going to be completely who I am.’ And as he’s quite a bold person, he just does it full-bore,” Jim reveals, illuminating the unwavering resolve that propels Jimpa’s transition.
Amsterdam, with its reputation for embracing individuality and fluidity, becomes Jimpa’s sanctuary as he explores his identity with newfound freedom. Jim emphasizes, “Amsterdam is one of the most gender-fluid cities in the world,” suggesting an surroundings that allows Jimpa to thrive and authentically express himself.
The complexities of Jimpa’s journey are not minimized; the actor acknowledges the potential for “layers of insecurity and self-doubt and even guilt.” Yet, amidst these challenges, Jimpa ultimately finds “relief and joy,” a testament to the transformative power of self-acceptance.
The film, crafted with sensitivity and care, avoids sensationalism, instead choosing to portray the nuances of Jimpa’s experience with empathy and honesty. This approach aligns with the intentions of Hannah, the filmmaker, who aspires to tell a story “without conflict but with kindness and empathy,” as quoted by screenwriter Matt Cormack and director Will Hyde.
Jim views this approach as a defining characteristic of Sophie, the filmmaker, stating that “It almost defines Sophie as a filmmaker.” this suggests a director deeply invested in exploring human experience with compassion and understanding.
Actor John Lithgow spoke about his experience filming the upcoming movie “Jimpa,” emphasizing the unique dynamics between his character and his co-star, Oscar-winning actress Olivia Colman.
Lithgow described Colman as having “a very good sense of herself,” adding that she brings an intriguing dynamic to the set. He elaborated on the “emotional chess game” that unfolds between his character, Jim, and Colman’s as they navigate the portrayal of their characters. “He wants to know, and she won’t tell him. And it’s this little emotional chess game they play. I think that’s great. He does have a vanity,” Lithgow noted, hinting at Jim’s desire to ensure a favorable portrayal.When asked about the potential for drama without overt conflict, Lithgow suggested it was entirely possible. He explained, “Oh, I think so.Look, there’s every version of drama and comedy, and there is a certain degree of conflict … there’s plenty of conflict in there. It’s sort of unspoken conflict in a way. It’s the drama of avoiding conflict and denying conflict.There’s a little conflict that’s sort of meta conflict there.”
Throughout the conversation, Lithgow’s enthusiasm for working with Colman was palpable. ” “
An Unexpected Gen X Pairing: Lithgow and Hyde on “The Last Days of Ptolemy Grey”
In an era of relentless streaming, finding genuine heart and connection in family dramas can feel like striking gold.
“The last Days of Ptolemy Grey,” a poignant AppleTV+ miniseries,navigates the complexities of familial bonds and generational divides through the lens of a captivating story.
Veteran actors Samuel L. Jackson and Cynthia Erivo deliver stellar performances, bringing a profound depth to their roles as Ptolemy Grey, a forgotten man grappling with dementia, and his niece, Robyn, caught between her own struggles and the weight of obligation for her beloved uncle.
Joining this dynamic duo is the ever-versatile John Lithgow, whose portrayal of Ptolemy’s estranged son, adds another layer of complex emotion to the narrative.
Lithgow’s character, a man wrestling with past regrets and a strained relationship with his father, serves as a poignant counterpoint to the unwavering love and support Robyn offers Ptolemy.
“I can’t say enough about what a responsive and generous actor she is, but also just as a person. She’s like the best person I know in the whole world. Just this fantastic, gentle, happy spirit full of her own interesting insecurities as we all are. But just an absolute joy to work with. And I think this, as you say, the drama without conflict but with kindness — it’s infused with love between father and daughter, between the two of them, and almost a companionship now,” Lithgow shares, his voice filled with warmth and admiration for Erivo.
The nuanced father-daughter dynamic between Lithgow’s character and erivo’s robyn is a standout element of the series. Lithgow further elucidates this complex relationship, describing his character’s unwavering presence in Robyn’s life, despite his own struggles.
“I mean, he’s there for her, in her, what she’s going through with her own former daughter, queer nonbinary child, whom Jim cheerfully calls his grand thing. He makes fun of himself, and he can’t quite figure out what in the world they’re going through, but it’s like he’s there. He’s got Hannah’s emotional back. he’s there for her. Just be patient. This young person is more together than we are. They’re going to find their way,” he reasons.
Adding a layer of humor and introspection to the character, Lithgow even shared an unexpected visual aid during discussions with lead actress Cynthia Erivo.
“During our discussions about the film, Lithgow sent Hyde a 1973 photograph of himself nude,”
The image, taken from his Broadway debut in David Storey’s The Changing Room, served as a powerful symbol, highlighting the universal human experience of vulnerability and the transformative act of embracing nudity in art.
“I said, ‘Look, this is what I look like. It’s what I used to look like anyway, and blithely sent it to her online.It’s probably gone around the world five times by now,” he dryly supposes.
“But here’s what I think,” he says, sitting up smartly. “I think that being naked onstage or in a film is about the most potent thing you can do dramatically. And even comedically. It is the one thing we all have in common. We all have naked bodies, and yet it’s the one thing that we completely hide from the rest of the world. So whenever you actually have the nerve to go out there naked, you’re going to have a tremendous impact no matter what. And so I just embraced that.”
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Veteran actor John Lithgow, known for his wide-ranging roles from heartwarming patriarch to sinister villain, has a unique theory about success. “There have been four or five times when I’ve appeared naked and this and that, and every time I’ve won a major award,” he reveals with a playful twinkle in his eye.
Lithgow pauses to let the absurdity of his statement sink in, then adds with infectious humor, “So it’s a very complex, positive reinforcement.”
Jimpa: A Film That Celebrates Love and Acceptance
Actor John Lithgow opens up about his experience in Sophie Hyde’s heartwarming film “Jimpa,” a story about a trans man navigating life and love within his close-knit family. The role required Lithgow to push boundaries, both physically and emotionally, showcasing the liberating power of embracing one’s true self.
“I knew it was very significant to Sophie, and I felt it was quite critically important to the film, just this feeling of Jim as a completely liberated person, and there is this level of irony, pathos and even comedy about a plot twist that happens as of sexual activity in a sex club. And I savored the complication of that plot twist,” Lithgow explains.
While the scene in question involved a degree of nudity, Lithgow emphasizes the importance of context and the powerful message it conveys.
He readily admits to feeling self-conscious, but director Sophie Hyde’s unwavering trust helped him overcome his nerves. “Although I was game,I was nervous about it. Of course, I was very self-conscious about it, and Sophie helped me through that. I just believe in her and trust her so explicitly as a filmmaker.”
The set, he recalls, was closed to some measurable degree, but the presence of the crew and the many naked extras helped to ease any discomfort. Lithgow draws a parallel with renowned actor Ian McKellen’s own boldness on stage, mentioning McKellen’s infamous “King Lear” performance that famously involved a full frontal display.
With “Jimpa”, Lithgow champions a film that delves into the complexities of family dynamics while celebrating love and acceptance in its purest form. “It’s disarming in all sorts of ways,” he says. “The most beautiful way is that it’s the portrait of a nuclear family in which one of the parties has transitioned, and yet it is indeed still a very loving, very happy, playful family. They have absorbed this and made it into their own version of normality. And I think that is the capital critically important aspect of this film. But it doesn’t come off as preachy.”
The film’s poignant moments resonate deeply, especially when Jim, lithgow’s character, travels to Helsinki seeking a job prospect. Lithgow’s performance beautifully captures Jim’s vulnerability and hope, leading to a crushing realization that hits him quickly. “Something in your eyes, … that tells us so much. Which is quite heartbreaking, actually,” I remarked to Lithgow. He simply nodded, acknowledging the emotional weight of the scene.
Lithgow Embraces “Bottle” in Powerful New Role
John Lithgow, acclaimed for his versatile and dynamic performances, is back with a role that showcases a different kind of strength. Taking on the character of Roald Dahl in the play “Giant,” Lithgow dives deeply into the complexities of aging and the challenges of confronting mortality.
The role requires Lithgow to portray a senior Dahl grappling with the realities of his waning physical prowess. As Lithgow puts it, “You get into your late 70s and early 80s, and you begin to realize, ‘Oh, I don’t have much bottle left.’ And trying to deny that as long as you possibly can. I found that extremely moving.”
This portrayal resonates profoundly with Lithgow’s own reflections on time and resilience. He acknowledges the universal human struggle with aging, which he beautifully juxtaposes with the emotional depth and tenderness found in the script. “Sophie, in her writing with that wonderful writer, Matthew Cormack, they just treat that with such tenderness and kindness,” he observes.
Lithgow’s commitment to embodying diverse characters extends beyond physical change. He has previously played a transgender woman in the film adaptation of “The World According to Garp,” demonstrating a willingness to explore complex identities with empathy and understanding. Asked about taking on this challenging role, he stated, “People asking me: ‘Why did you take this part? Weren’t you scared?’ I thought that was such a crazy question.I said, ‘Why do you think I became an actor? It’s to enter into other emotional worlds and explore other people, even horrible people. But this is not a horrible person. This is a beautiful person.’”
“Giant” arrives at a time when conversations surrounding empathy and compassion are increasingly urgent. Lithgow sees the play as a powerful counterpoint to the negativity and division that permeate society. “And I have to say, these days, you cannot escape what’s happened in the zeitgeist and in politics,” he acknowledges, “Our last election cycle, it ended with two weeks of the most disgusting, transphobic, smear campaign about Kamala Harris and Tim Waltz’s empathy for trans people and LGBTQ people. It’s like, what has happened to us? How have we become so cruel? At the very moment when I thought people where finally opening up and an age of empathy had dawned, it was disgusting. Thus, how marvelous that this film should be chosen to open the Sundance Film Festival as it’s really an critically important moment for them. Once again, I hesitate to use the word ‘critically important.’ I want people to just accept this film purely on its own terms. It’s a beautiful portrait of a family.”
“Giant” transfers to the Harold Pinter Theatre from April 26, promising a captivating cinematic experience that delves into the depths of human experience with honesty and grace.
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