Olivier had finesse and class and Brando had brutishness and animal magnetism. So they were completely different animals. If I compared them to primates, I’d say Olivier was like an Orangutan 🦧 and Brando was like a Gorilla 🦍. Orangutans are smarter. Gorillas are fiercer.
@Ray Sierra It’s called creative writing using an analogy. I compared their acting styles and then thought: who is the greatest Actor? And they are both so different! One is intellectual and the other is mercurial. I then thought they are like two different animals. Then I thought: what kind of animals would they be? That’s when I thought of Primates. You could use Big Cats, too. One would be a Lion: Olivier and the other a Tiger: Brando. They are both great! I can’t say one is greater than the other. It depends on what you prefer. I enjoy Olivier’s acting. No doubt about his thoroughness in roles. He was incredibly precise. He could play anything. On the other hand, I also enjoyed Brando’s performances. For his power and subtlety. He was amazing! They were both cut from a different cloth. So I can’t say one is better than the other. You decide for yourself. Lions 🦁 are symbols of Nobility and Pride and 🐅 Tigers are symbols of Strength and Fierceness. They are both powerful!
That's what it seems like to simple minds who always have to pettily gossip about the interviewer in the comments, because Laurence Olivier talks longer and has much to tell. There is also plenty of time.
You are right and that’s because he is always genuinely interested in listening to what his guests have to say. Also it helped that he asked intelligent questions. Dick Cavett was the best and his shows are a treasure trove. It was a great shame there are so many commercial breaks interrupting the flow such interesting conversations.
Absolutely love these candid interviews with these long-gone legends. Seeing them have such a casual conversation goes a long way towards humanizing them in the eyes of those who didn't know them when they were alive.
Dick Cavett is consistently the best interviewer I've ever seen in a chat show format - relaxed, intelligent, insightful, well researched and he knows precisely how to get the subject to open up and then get out of their way to let them speak without trying to direct the conversation quickly onto the next bullet point...
Beautifully put. I love that he doesn't use prompt cards the way even Graham Norton does these days. It makes the whole wonderful conversation feel so natural.
He looks great, I agree. Elegant; classic, classy. But no, he couldn't pass for any time period - only more or less the 20th century. Before that the cut of suits was different, and nowadays clothing is becoming less and less formal, so it is less likely to be considered "classic", and more likely "formal", or even "old fashioned". Sic transit tempus ;-)
Most of the time, you have an interviewer and an interviewee who answers questions. With Dick Cavett you have a mild-mannered talking partner with whom you have a civil conversation. Marvelous.
Yeah, I remember as a kid, I just liked watching him because I liked his natural, easy going style - plus, only one guest format. I didn't know what they were talking about but I just liked listening to Dick Cavett. Way beyond even a Johnny Carson.
He had such a relaxed, unimposing demeanor, asked thoughtful questions, & was able to "go with the flow" of the interview. Never pompous & overbearing like many other interviewers.
I recently watched a viewing of "Spartacus". I've got to admit that some of my favorite scenes have Laurence Olivier in them. His acting was both brilliant and mesmerizing. I definitely count him in my own top ten greatest actors of all-time. Truly a master of the art, and sorely missed.
If you never heard of Laurence Olivier before within seconds it’s clear you know this is a gentleman of great character, class, and intelligence. The interviewer does an excellent job of letting the superstar guest shine without interruption, it sounds deceptively simple, but it isn’t easy to handle the egos of legends.
I sit here with tears in my eyes when I think of his greatness and what an incredible career and life he had. I look at him and I see Hamlet, and Archie Rice, and Othello, and Richard III, and Heathcliff, and Lear, and Shylock, and so many, many more characters he became. His versatility is astounding. I only wish he were still here sharing his genius with us again.
@@shaunigothictv1003 Olivier. Olivier played all those parts I mentioned, not Brando. Don't get me wrong, Brando was good, even great at times, but Olivier was a genius classical actor, which Brando didn't even attempt.
I have to disagree. I think Merv Griffin ran a longer, bigger and more musical show than anyone else. Dick Cavett came off as a university boy back then, a studied interview, more one-on-one.
My God, in mere seconds, he was so enthralling. It only took a brief moment to have everyone so absorbed. One feels that the brief pause before applause was because they were hoping for more, and because it took a moment for the spell to wear off...
It sends my soul to hear his voice, and its perfection in the reciting of Milton. What a master. Our society is starving for this type of enlightened speech.
Great interview. Lord Olivier actually gets to talk. Only interviewer now who doesn't interrupt the guests or laugh like a hyena for no reason is Graham Norton.
That's because, in my view, they don't respect the intellect of their audience. If something crazy isn't happening, or it has been 20 seconds since the last laugh, the interview must be going wrong. More than a lack of respect for the audience, it is a lack of confidence in their own ability. A fear of silence. The space between the words and sentences, the cloth upon which the best raconteur threads his/her tapestry.
Check out Tommy Tiernans show on RTE (Ireland). Mixture of famous people (in Ireland) and non famous with remarkable stories or lives. The host doesn't know who the guests will be until they walk out. There's no agenda or promotion involved. Its interviewing in the proper sense.
My abiding memory of Olivier is his narration of the World at War series, that voice was mesmerising, and married perfectly to the seriousness of the subject. I would love Sleuth to re-appear on the TV movie list, I have not seen it listed for decades…
"I was always frightfully conceited." "It wasn't that I wanted to attract attention to myself. For once." I love that Laurence Olivier was so open about his flaws. He made a living out of playing other people, so it's nice that he didn't pretend to be perfect when he was just being himself. The man had a massive ego but he was aware of that, so he didn't let it get out of control. That self-discipline is something that Anthony Hopkins admired about him.
I wonder what life was like for Joan Plowright? After his death, she came into her own and at a very late in life took up again her acting career and shes great too!!
@@shaunigothictv1003 It was made in Britain by ''Thames Televison'' and televised in 1973. first of many many showings. It is almost always, being viewed some time some where in the world,
@@MrDaiseymay Correct. It was my favourite documentary series. Thames Television certainly made some brilliant programmes in the 1970's. Thanks for your reply and God Bless you.
To reach out in this medium across time and bring tears to my eyes. The genius of Milton burnished by the ineffable Lawrence Olivier is food for the soul.
Gosh this Dick Cavett fella's fantastic isn't he. I not American, and I'm not old enough to have watched him while his show was on the air, but it seems to me US 'late shows' have really nose-dived in recent years. He's like a proper interviewer.
What presence Olivier had. I have never seen an interviewer from the United States as great as Dick Cavett. Usually I avoid interviews with actors and singers because society gives them undeserving high status based on the frivolous and not their craft or their development as people.
Olivier's honours included a knighthood (1947), a life peerage (1970) and the Order of Merit (1981). For his on-screen work he received four Academy Awards, two British Academy Film Awards, five Emmy Awards and three Golden Globe Awards. The National Theatre's largest auditorium is named in his honour, and he is commemorated in the Laurence Olivier Awards, given annually by the Society of London Theatre. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laurence_Olivier
Brilliant actor, eloquent classy great interview, excellent interviewer, Dick Cavett is very good he lets his guest answer the questions without interruption. The chat shows today are absolute gargage.
He absolutely is a chameleon, I remember watching Boys from Brazil not even realizing it was Olivier playing Lieberman, and it wasn't because he was hidden behind a costume or makeup, it was because he was such a damn good actor he became a completely different person.
He was the maestro of drama....he had a voice that empowered his audiences. To me he was an actor of many guises, and the master of the acting profession. He most definitely was the best...💕
Imagine this interview was done today. Sir Laurence would be constantly interrupted or made to do some stupid stunt, while the host just cackles on at how amazing *they* are.
What seems so odd about the Dick Cavett show is he allows his guests to speak, finish their stories and simply directs their attention to a new subject. He doesn't interrupt, take cheap shots, finish their sentences for them or try to make light of everything. You can actually get a feel for the guest as a person. I noticed I'm so entrenched in how today's talk shows operate with showmanship that this seems stodgy and boring. That being said I much prefer watching this format. On the other hand I don't think it would work very well today due to the fact of how shallow the actors and entertainers of today are. They're just not that interesting, personally. " Like, you know"...
A time when you really had to make a splash to have a voice. Today, everybody has a voice, and nobody seems to actually say anything. I listen to this, I listen to Douglas talking about Wayne in the same era. Huge voices, used with care and class.
Amazing insight. Listening to Sir Lawrence, I can't help but be enthused with his detailed explanation of the "craft." He seems almost giddy, but reserved with his description of acting and production [stagecraft]. Not to mention his fan-boy appreciation of other thespians. When he speaks of these subjects, his enthusiasm is inspiring and contagious. I miss him deeply.
Cavett without doubt is one of the true greats when it comes to interviewing. A gentleman who never grills his guests. His gentle, friendly manner puts his guests at easy and I'm sure they tend to open up a little more, than they would, if they felt pressured. Dick also, when he's asked a question, sits quietly and lets his guest speak. He makes it look so easy , which undoubtedly it isn't. A lot of modern day 'revolving door gob' interviewers could learn a lot from him.
How fortunate we are to have Cavett's extraordinary archive of interviews -- having grown up watching them I took it all for granted, can only now appreciate how valuable they are to human cultural history . . .
Adam G: I agree, today there are only 'interviewers' who constantly interrupt, shout, or slobber over their guest in fawning overdose. Yep, Cavett was good.
The difference between a decent actor and an amazing one is subtle but immediately noticeable. Olivier makes his recital at the end seem effortless, and yet very few people could ever have matched those standards. That's what's always fascinated me about acting, really...
funny how the best actors are also incredibly intelligent as well, far above their audiences, which make you wonder what the attraction is,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
@@ankurdbms I think the greatest actors and actresses are intelligent and that's why they endure over time. Christopher Lee once said "If you've got it, if you've got the right instincts, the right imagination, the right powers of invention, if you've got something behind you, some kind of foundation of experience and versatility, that's fine. You will go on, you will last." Marlon Brando had an extremely rare gift because his style was almost entirely instinctive. Even Sir Laurence couldn't just walk onto a set and act without preparing for a role first. I can think of only one living person who might be able to pull that off and that's Michelle Pfeiffer. However, I don't know for sure if even she had Brando's gift because I have no evidence that she doesn't prepare for her roles first. I'm basing this more on the fact that she was entirely self-trained.
@@clarkey4387 linguistic imperialism/purism is fucking silly. Language is alive and changing all the time. Never assume something is better just because of the class of people who inhabit its space.
@@MatauReviews Eh, I find it hard to agree with you when the standard of English is declining in some places and not improving. People sound like idiots, if you’re from the UK you may understand, if not then don’t tell me I’m silly 🙂
I fully agree with about Cavett who was an outstanding host, perhaps the best, but if you pay attention to Oliver's body language, you can see he's not that comfortable during the interview.
He beautifully explained that the method actor isn’t really, in the actual practice of his craft, doing anything differently than any other actor, yet he explained his conclusion such generosity and tact.
Wow what an amazing distinction relating to his painting analogy amidst realism . Yet another reason this man is a genius .. What he did with his character in Spartacus was also amazing. Can see why he admires Brando. They both breath life into Thier characters owning Thier spots be it on stage or set with a boldness so sharp it immerses you with captivation planting themselves into our memories forever more ..... Not many actors can do this and in Spartacus his was not even the lead . Infact amidst such giants as Simmons and Douglas he grabs his spot and gets noticed revealing his seasoned veteran thespian roots .
Love Larry's take on Brando playing Napoleon. That's why I tend to not like to watch biopics. The actors portraying the geniuses tend to just not generate genius themselves. The only one that I can think of that really worked was Lawrence of Arabia. Addendum: I had tears in my eyes after his speech. Here on 7/5/2020 I can only weep to what our culture has become.
Wow, such an inspirational interview to watch. Dick Cavett asks the most interesting and in-depth questions, my goodness. And his request for Sir Laurence Olivier to perform a piece of his monologue was awesome to witness.
His Henry V (1944) was not only perhaps the best Shakespeare adaption, but it came at time that Britons badly needed a lift. A patriotic masterpiece. His horse/jockey metaphor was brilliant.
An awesome talent. One by which for me all others are measured, an actor in the true sense, he could become anyone . So many who are considered so called great actors especially the likes of John Wayne for example. He was so one dimensional and whatever part he played he was always John Wayne with a different script, whereas Olivier is in far superior league, he could act any part and truly become that character.
A supremely magnificent actor who allowed himself to be eclipsed by Jackie Gleason when they shared the screen in Mr. Halpern and Mr. Johnson. The same is true of his film with Michael Caine. He was all about lifting the art.
I know everyone talks about Cavett not interrupting (and rightly so), but I think we should also point out that audiences were so much better then. I was waiting for the hysterical claps and cheers once Sir Olivier said he had beaten cancer, but no, there's silence in what is a rather poignment moment that would have been ruined by an audience of today
His reading Milton was pure transformative magic. The very best “ actor”but most of all were blessed by his presence in films .Thank you gotta sharing your gift Sir Lawrence !!!
Something about the way Laurence Olivier speaks reminds me of Robin Williams. When they weren't acting, they were both soft spoken and seemed so gentle. There are precious few actors like them these days. I think the closest is Anthony Hopkins who is both a legendary actor and a humble man but he's one of the last of a dying breed.
It’s more than his eloquence. Olivier’s sincerity glued me to the screen, before Milton and after. I especially enjoyed his honesty regarding the conceit of his youth and how acting is not necessarily the province of adults. I was reminded of a Peter Lorre quote that it’s a profession that consists of “making faces.” This charming pragmatism shows no illusion that their role is to entertain and does not elevate them as people, although it may well in our hearts. I find myself fonder of Olivier than ever before after this frankly beautiful interview.
Marlon Brando was as authentic as they come. He had a personal library of over 4,000 books and studied almost everything related to his work. The man himself is far more fascinating than his acting.
@I8thumper That is kind of unrelated at best and a direct support for Brando being an intellect. First of all he despised the movie star actor world and secondly he wanted to save his neuron pathways for headier stuff than movie scripts.
When he did the Milton part and looked directly into the camera it felt like he was looking directly at me. Im sure most people feel the same . What an amazing actor and human being.
I feel unconsciously captured …. Sir Laurence Olivier: Tone, eloquence, timing, expression and appearance - all masterful , all immaculate - his serious expression is as intimidating as his smile is warm and engaging. Thank you for making this wonderful jewel available to the world.
I've watched three of his really old movies in a row from 1938 -1940 and apart from the obviously wonderful physical magnetism and looks, he's different in all of them REALLY different.
@Ulysses432 He's comparing the two and he's right. Interviewers today are waiting for a pause so they can jump in and get the attention back on themselves.
Mr. Cavett is obviously an intelectual and a gentleman, and the freaks of todays I don't even want to mention. Graham Norton - you're the only gentleman now.
I think it's the sense of awe and respect for what the person has achieved on top of their being so eloquent that makes a great interview. When they talk, and they often do it so eagerly and entertaingly, you just shut up and listen.
Realise he knew he was going to be asked to do the Milton, they rehearsed it for lighting, and that every anecdote, whilst seemingly pulled up in the moment was actually planned. Being this classy and casual takes years of dedication.
An incredible actor, human being, scholar and being so incredibly handsome doesn't hurt. What a class act. He and Richard Burton are bar none the best of the best. What class. What a Legend. RIP Sir Lawrence Olivier. You are sorely missed!
The subject of Brando is only the beginning. Stay to the end for "a bit of Milton", a request from Cavett. Sir Laurence: It's a sexy bit. Caveat: It's late.
![[Live] ศึกมหึมันส์มวยไทยสังเวียนเดือด เวทีมวยชั่วคราวสวนสยาม | จันทร์ 30 กันยายน 2567](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/pM1k6f7JXUc/mqdefault.jpg)
Watching this makes you realise how much chat shows, guests and audiences have dumbed down.
Hence TH-cam
Unfortunately, so true...the ability to listen (and enjoy listening) seems to not be taught much these days..
considerably dumbed down
The target audience age seems to be lower than in the days of Dick C
Cavetts show was the exception.. would be comparable to the Charlie Rose Show these days
That's some praise for Marlon Brando, from arguably the greatest actor ever to walk the stage in the Uk
Marlon Brando his considered the only actor who could challenge Olivier as to who's the greatest of all time
Olivier had finesse and class and Brando had brutishness and animal magnetism.
So they were completely different animals. If I compared them to primates, I’d say Olivier was like an Orangutan 🦧 and Brando was like a Gorilla 🦍. Orangutans are smarter. Gorillas are fiercer.
@@dynjarren8355 wow very interesting analogy!..I never in a million years would of thought of it that way!
@Ray Sierra It’s called creative writing using an analogy.
I compared their acting styles and then thought: who is the greatest Actor? And they are both so different! One is intellectual and the other is mercurial.
I then thought they are like two different animals. Then I thought: what kind of animals would they be? That’s when I thought of Primates.
You could use Big Cats, too. One would be a Lion: Olivier and the other a Tiger: Brando. They are both great! I can’t say one is greater than the other. It depends on what you prefer.
I enjoy Olivier’s acting. No doubt about his thoroughness in roles. He was incredibly precise. He could play anything.
On the other hand,
I also enjoyed Brando’s performances. For his power and subtlety. He was amazing! They were both cut from a different cloth. So I can’t say one is better than the other.
You decide for yourself.
Lions 🦁 are symbols of Nobility and Pride and 🐅 Tigers are symbols of Strength and Fierceness.
They are both powerful!
@Jim Newcombe
Making the Implicit Explicit? Good description! Skulling the Tenth Glass? I’ve never heard that phrase before.
Interesting!
I like the way Cavett doesn't constantly interrupt his guests.
That's what it seems like to simple minds who always have to pettily gossip about the interviewer in the comments, because Laurence Olivier talks longer and has much to tell. There is also plenty of time.
william jc You mean like Jimmy Fallon lol?
@william jc Good observation. You’re so right!
You are right and that’s because he is always genuinely interested in listening to what his guests have to say. Also it helped that he asked intelligent questions. Dick Cavett was the best and his shows are a treasure trove. It was a great shame there are so many commercial breaks interrupting the flow such interesting conversations.
...and the fact a pause or silence doesn't have to be viewed as cancer
One of the greatest actors who ever lived. Any role he played was incredible. You will be terrified of him in “Marathon Man”.
Is it safe?
@@peternagy-im4be Yes yes, it's very safe.
My wife and I stumbled on Marathon Man and Olivier was stone cold mesmerizing in that film.
Dustin Hoffman was brilliant in that scene as well
You haven't seen him in inchon
Absolutely love these candid interviews with these long-gone legends. Seeing them have such a casual conversation goes a long way towards humanizing them in the eyes of those who didn't know them when they were alive.
Dick Cavett is consistently the best interviewer I've ever seen in a chat show format - relaxed, intelligent, insightful, well researched and he knows precisely how to get the subject to open up and then get out of their way to let them speak without trying to direct the conversation quickly onto the next bullet point...
Beautifully put. I love that he doesn't use prompt cards the way even Graham Norton does these days. It makes the whole wonderful conversation feel so natural.
Precisely.
Too many of the Hosts today have egos so huge that they have to be noticed or else!
mm not so much, he talked trashed about judy garlad after her death with helen mirren.
But he got cancelled
Impeccably dressed in a suit and tie that could pass for any time period. He exudes class.
He looks great, I agree. Elegant; classic, classy.
But no, he couldn't pass for any time period - only more or less the 20th century. Before that the cut of suits was different, and nowadays clothing is becoming less and less formal, so it is less likely to be considered "classic", and more likely "formal", or even "old fashioned".
Sic transit tempus ;-)
Could it pass for 1692? Lmao.
Most of the time, you have an interviewer and an interviewee who answers questions. With Dick Cavett you have a mild-mannered talking partner with whom you have a civil conversation. Marvelous.
well put - I really like his style
RIP and long live Sir Laurence Olivier (May 22, 1907 - July 11, 1989), aged 82
You will always be remembered as a legend.
Cavett was such a brilliant interviewer; he let the talkers talk and drew out the shy guests.
Yeah, I remember as a kid, I just liked watching him because I liked his natural, easy going style - plus, only one guest format. I didn't know what they were talking about but I just liked listening to Dick Cavett. Way beyond even a Johnny Carson.
He had such a relaxed, unimposing demeanor, asked thoughtful questions, & was able to "go with the flow" of the interview. Never pompous & overbearing like many other interviewers.
Uuhm NO
I recently watched a viewing of "Spartacus". I've got to admit that some
of my favorite scenes have Laurence Olivier in them. His acting was both
brilliant and mesmerizing. I definitely count him in my own top ten greatest
actors of all-time. Truly a master of the art, and sorely missed.
Who are the other 10?
If you never heard of Laurence Olivier before within seconds it’s clear you know this is a gentleman of great character, class, and intelligence. The interviewer does an excellent job of letting the superstar guest shine without interruption, it sounds deceptively simple, but it isn’t easy to handle the egos of legends.
I agree 100 %.
So well said...............
Yet he pushed the likes of Noel Coward, John Gielgud and Marilyn Monroe without mercy.
Google him. He was a brilliant actor
@@Chucklea9 “Google him” Typo? You meant “Googled him”, right?
I just cannot enough of these interviews...I just wish they were longer...Olivier, Burton and Gielgud were men who simply walked the walk
The final monologue gave me goosebumps. A real actor. God bless you Sir Laurence Olivier.
Oh how I miss Dick Cavett and this level of conversation.
I sit here with tears in my eyes when I think of his greatness and what an incredible career and life he had. I look at him and I see Hamlet, and Archie Rice, and Othello, and Richard III, and Heathcliff, and Lear, and Shylock, and so many, many more characters he became. His versatility is astounding. I only wish he were still here sharing his genius with us again.
Are you talking about Brando or Olivier?
@@shaunigothictv1003 Olivier. Olivier played all those parts I mentioned, not Brando. Don't get me wrong, Brando was good, even great at times, but Olivier was a genius classical actor, which Brando didn't even attempt.
@@suzyflorida1193
Peace.
@@shaunigothictv1003 Cheers!
Hollywood is dead.
The golden days of TV. 70s, and 80s had interviewers who allowed their guests to talk and not interrupt. Dick Cavett must be the best.
Yep
I have to disagree. I think Merv Griffin ran a longer, bigger and more musical show than anyone else.
Dick Cavett came off as a university boy back then, a studied interview, more one-on-one.
Yes!!!!!!!!!!!
Michael Parkinson was good. UK.
And Charlie Rose the worst....
Forgive me for stating the obvious, but this patient type of erudition was at home on American television in the early 1970s.
Podcasts provide the best interview format these days. Check out Ian McKellan on Wtf for instance
Magooch86 True enough - radio has always had that edge.
Yet it was commonly called the 'idiot box' in those days
He's a put on, right?
@@Magooch86 oh, thanks Mate..i'll check that out now that you mention it (and the original comment is very good)
The lights dim, Sir Laurence recites Milton, and the spellbound audience shows its appreciation, and so do we.
My God, in mere seconds, he was so enthralling. It only took a brief moment to have everyone so absorbed. One feels that the brief pause before applause was because they were hoping for more, and because it took a moment for the spell to wear off...
It sends my soul to hear his voice, and its perfection in the reciting of Milton. What a master. Our society is starving for this type of enlightened speech.
And did you notice that as the recitel progressed Sir Laurence's eyes came to rest upon the camera? Masterful.
And all on a prime time talkshow! Incredible!
@@wiseonwords Late night. It was a competitor to Carson.
Great interview. Lord Olivier actually gets to talk. Only interviewer now who doesn't interrupt the guests or laugh like a hyena for no reason is Graham Norton.
Like a hyena😂😂 that has me in stitches hahaha
I did not know that Olivier was named Baron for life in 1971
That's because, in my view, they don't respect the intellect of their audience. If something crazy isn't happening, or it has been 20 seconds since the last laugh, the interview must be going wrong. More than a lack of respect for the audience, it is a lack of confidence in their own ability. A fear of silence. The space between the words and sentences, the cloth upon which the best raconteur threads his/her tapestry.
Check out Tommy Tiernans show on RTE (Ireland). Mixture of famous people (in Ireland) and non famous with remarkable stories or lives. The host doesn't know who the guests will be until they walk out. There's no agenda or promotion involved. Its interviewing in the proper sense.
Conan’s pretty great I’d argue. But yeah not the two Jimmys, they’re terrible
Mr. Cavett thank you for a feast of intelligent interviews and insight. I hope you are well.
My abiding memory of Olivier is his narration of the World at War series, that voice was mesmerising, and married perfectly to the seriousness of the subject.
I would love Sleuth to re-appear on the TV movie list, I have not seen it listed for decades…
"I was always frightfully conceited."
"It wasn't that I wanted to attract attention to myself. For once."
I love that Laurence Olivier was so open about his flaws. He made a living out of playing other people, so it's nice that he didn't pretend to be perfect when he was just being himself. The man had a massive ego but he was aware of that, so he didn't let it get out of control. That self-discipline is something that Anthony Hopkins admired about him.
I wonder what life was like for Joan Plowright? After his death, she came into her own and at a very late in life took up again her acting career and shes great too!!
Laurence also did the voice over on the series, the world at war, which in my opinion, made it one of the best series ever made.
Ive seen it here in the U.K. It comes on Freeview.
The narration of the introduction to the first episode is magnificient.
Without a doubt his narration is a masterpiece.
@@shaunigothictv1003 It was made in Britain by ''Thames Televison'' and televised in 1973. first of many many showings. It is almost always, being viewed some time some where in the world,
@@MrDaiseymay
Correct.
It was my favourite documentary series.
Thames Television certainly made some brilliant programmes in the 1970's.
Thanks for your reply and God Bless you.
The Milton is from Paradise Lost when Adam takes the apple from Eve. The delivery is nuanced and beautiful.
Thank you.
They don't make em like this anymore
To reach out in this medium across time and bring tears to my eyes. The genius of Milton burnished by the ineffable Lawrence Olivier is food for the soul.
That voice. Incredible.
Gosh this Dick Cavett fella's fantastic isn't he. I not American, and I'm not old enough to have watched him while his show was on the air, but it seems to me US 'late shows' have really nose-dived in recent years. He's like a proper interviewer.
While he recites the Milton lines, LO's eyes show that he's in the "zone" of the work. So easily there.
Mesmerizing.
it brought tears to my eyes
That small sample left no doubt about why he is a legend. Spellbinding.
What presence Olivier had. I have never seen an interviewer from the United States as great as Dick Cavett. Usually I avoid interviews with actors and singers because society gives them undeserving high status based on the frivolous and not their craft or their development as people.
Johnny Carson
Olivier's honours included a knighthood (1947), a life peerage (1970) and the Order of Merit (1981). For his on-screen work he received four Academy Awards, two British Academy Film Awards, five Emmy Awards and three Golden Globe Awards. The National Theatre's largest auditorium is named in his honour, and he is commemorated in the Laurence Olivier Awards, given annually by the Society of London Theatre. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laurence_Olivier
Brilliant actor, eloquent classy great interview, excellent interviewer, Dick Cavett is very good he lets his guest answer the questions without interruption. The chat shows today are absolute gargage.
Is that all?
He deserved it, the greatest
Oliver is the best over seen. Watch Marathon Man. He's a chameleon.
Is it safe?😂
Cringing remembering Hoffman screaming. 😬
From Wuthering Heights to the Boys From Brazil always outstanding.
He absolutely is a chameleon, I remember watching Boys from Brazil not even realizing it was Olivier playing Lieberman, and it wasn't because he was hidden behind a costume or makeup, it was because he was such a damn good actor he became a completely different person.
as well he should, after mentioning he can add colours to a chameleon.
Nobody talks like Sir Laurence Olivier...
He was the maestro of drama....he had a voice that empowered his audiences.
To me he was an actor of many guises, and the master of the acting profession.
He most definitely was the best...💕
Perhaps Richard Burton?
Daniel Micheli - You really need to look up some John Gielgud videos!
@@wiseonwords Been there, done that. I stand correct: nobody talks like Sir Laurence Olivier...
@@danielmicheli354 He narrated the 'World at War' a series produced in the 70's. His voice had the perfect dramatic tone for that series.
Such a shame you never get this level of discourse on late night television these days.
Olivier's thoughts about acting reveal that he is quite an analyst of the craft.
Imagine this interview was done today. Sir Laurence would be constantly interrupted or made to do some stupid stunt, while the host just cackles on at how amazing *they* are.
So true!
What seems so odd about the Dick Cavett show is he allows his guests to speak, finish their stories and simply directs their attention to a new subject. He doesn't interrupt, take cheap shots, finish their sentences for them or try to make light of everything. You can actually get a feel for the guest as a person. I noticed I'm so entrenched in how today's talk shows operate with showmanship that this seems stodgy and boring. That being said I much prefer watching this format.
On the other hand I don't think it would work very well today due to the fact of how shallow the actors and entertainers of today are. They're just not that interesting, personally. " Like, you know"...
THIS is a talkshow. Wtf happened? We deteriorated from cunning beings into vile beasts? How can this exact format ever go out of style?
I so agree, this is how people used to sit and converse, I miss it.
Podcasts, mate. Podcasts.
@@weavehole Sure, you´re right. I was comparing to todays so called "talkshows" though, mate
Dunno, other than the occasional Graham Norton clip that pops up online I haven’t watched one in decades I guess.
Dunno, other than the occasional Graham Norton clip that pops up online I haven’t watched one in decades I guess.
A time when you really had to make a splash to have a voice. Today, everybody has a voice, and nobody seems to actually say anything.
I listen to this, I listen to Douglas talking about Wayne in the same era. Huge voices, used with care and class.
Wonderful "interview". Interesting hearing this acting legend discussing Brando's acting skills and acting generally.
He is awesome! Such voice! Such intelligence! Such refinement! We miss it💗
Amazing insight. Listening to Sir Lawrence, I can't help but be enthused with his detailed explanation of the "craft." He seems almost giddy, but reserved with his description of acting and production [stagecraft]. Not to mention his fan-boy appreciation of other thespians. When he speaks of these subjects, his enthusiasm is inspiring and contagious. I miss him deeply.
Listen to him speak and listen to the Brando interview, both high IQ
Cavett without doubt is one of the true greats when it comes to interviewing. A gentleman who never grills his guests. His gentle, friendly manner puts his guests at easy and I'm sure they tend to open up a little more, than they would, if they felt pressured.
Dick also, when he's asked a question, sits quietly and lets his guest speak. He makes it look so easy , which undoubtedly it isn't.
A lot of modern day 'revolving door gob' interviewers could learn a lot from him.
How fortunate we are to have Cavett's extraordinary archive of interviews -- having grown up watching them I took it all for granted, can only now appreciate how valuable they are to human cultural history . . .
Such a treasure trove of interviews. I hope more of this one is posted.
Adam G: I agree, today there are only 'interviewers' who constantly interrupt, shout, or slobber over their guest in fawning overdose. Yep, Cavett was good.
The difference between a decent actor and an amazing one is subtle but immediately noticeable. Olivier makes his recital at the end seem effortless, and yet very few people could ever have matched those standards. That's what's always fascinated me about acting, really...
funny how the best actors are also incredibly intelligent as well, far above their audiences, which make you wonder what the attraction is,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
Money.
I think he said Marlon Brando was quite easy! I don't think the best actors are very intelligent !
@@ankurdbms I think the greatest actors and actresses are intelligent and that's why they endure over time. Christopher Lee once said "If you've got it, if you've got the right instincts, the right imagination, the right powers of invention, if you've got something behind you, some kind of foundation of experience and versatility, that's fine. You will go on, you will last."
Marlon Brando had an extremely rare gift because his style was almost entirely instinctive. Even Sir Laurence couldn't just walk onto a set and act without preparing for a role first. I can think of only one living person who might be able to pull that off and that's Michelle Pfeiffer. However, I don't know for sure if even she had Brando's gift because I have no evidence that she doesn't prepare for her roles first. I'm basing this more on the fact that she was entirely self-trained.
Exceptional guest, greatest interviewer ever. Couldn't go wrong.
It’s beautiful to see such an intelligent interview. You’d never see anyone ask “could you lay some Milton on us?” In an interview today.
When he recited Milton, I wonder if he was thinking of Vivien Leigh.
Very generous of Sir Laurence, but he himself was actually the greatest actor ever.
A Outstanding Actor and Genuine good person. Thanks for the upload I enjoyed the interview. Out.
The vague microphone feedback reverberation on his voice gives it a strange quality.
Excellent observation.
"He (Brando) was palpably a great star in the making". Where do you hear English like that?
England
@@runningsuperska Dying out though, too many non-English polluting the language
@@clarkey4387 linguistic imperialism/purism is fucking silly. Language is alive and changing all the time. Never assume something is better just because of the class of people who inhabit its space.
@@MatauReviews Eh, I find it hard to agree with you when the standard of English is declining in some places and not improving. People sound like idiots, if you’re from the UK you may understand, if not then don’t tell me I’m silly 🙂
@@clarkey4387 what does "declining" mean to you?
Cavett was SOOOO good
because he made his guests comfortable
and let them talk.
I fully agree with about Cavett who was an outstanding host, perhaps the best, but if you pay attention to Oliver's body language, you can see he's not that comfortable during the interview.
He beautifully explained that the method actor isn’t really, in the actual practice of his craft, doing anything differently than any other actor, yet he explained his conclusion such generosity and tact.
Marlon was a once in a generation. Dominant, good looking, intelligent and first of all the first ever person to become an activist among the actors
@aljanat5 Pretty sure he was kidding, but I get your point.
who cares about that bullshit.
And a horrible father and a man that sabotaged many movies before the Godfather.
Beka Machurishvili Edward G. Robinson. Brando wasn’t even close to being first.
aljanat5 Gervais is a fan of Brando.
OMG I thought this would be typical over the top stuff but this bloke Dick Cavett is the best interviewer I've ever seen.
Imagine Laurence Olivier praising you, amazing.
Indeed. Imagine having to live up to all that praise he garnered from a young age.
Wow . That milton 20 seconds deserves an oscar.
A did a namaste to the screen after that!
He really knew his craft. HE was a genius. So much respect for this man.
Wow what an amazing distinction relating to his painting analogy amidst realism . Yet another reason this man is a genius ..
What he did with his character in Spartacus was also amazing. Can see why he admires Brando. They both breath life into Thier characters owning Thier spots be it on stage or set with a boldness so sharp it immerses you with captivation planting themselves into our memories forever more ..... Not many actors can do this and in Spartacus his was not even the lead . Infact amidst such giants as Simmons and Douglas he grabs his spot and gets noticed revealing his seasoned veteran thespian roots .
Love Larry's take on Brando playing Napoleon. That's why I tend to not like to watch biopics. The actors portraying the geniuses tend to just not generate genius themselves. The only one that I can think of that really worked was Lawrence of Arabia.
Addendum: I had tears in my eyes after his speech. Here on 7/5/2020 I can only weep to what our culture has become.
I’ve watched several Dick Cavett interviews,he is the master.
Wow, such an inspirational interview to watch. Dick Cavett asks the most interesting and in-depth questions, my goodness. And his request for Sir Laurence Olivier to perform a piece of his monologue was awesome to witness.
It's incredible seeing this interview after half a century. They made great actors back then.
His Henry V (1944) was not only perhaps the best Shakespeare adaption, but it came at time that Britons badly needed a lift. A patriotic masterpiece. His horse/jockey metaphor was brilliant.
An awesome talent. One by which for me all others are measured, an actor in the true sense, he could become anyone .
So many who are considered so called great actors especially the likes of John Wayne for example. He was so one dimensional and whatever part he played he was always John Wayne with a different script, whereas Olivier is in far superior league, he could act any part and truly become that character.
A true giant in his field and yet so modest that he is able to recognize others for their work as well.
The greatest actor on stage and screen. no one can play a death sceen like him.
A supremely magnificent actor who allowed himself to be eclipsed by Jackie Gleason when they shared the screen in Mr. Halpern and Mr. Johnson. The same is true of his film with Michael Caine. He was all about lifting the art.
I know everyone talks about Cavett not interrupting (and rightly so), but I think we should also point out that audiences were so much better then.
I was waiting for the hysterical claps and cheers once Sir Olivier said he had beaten cancer, but no, there's silence in what is a rather poignment moment that would have been ruined by an audience of today
His reading Milton was pure transformative magic. The very best “ actor”but most of all were blessed by his presence in films .Thank you gotta sharing your gift Sir Lawrence !!!
Can you possibly imagine any present-day celebrity being 1/100th as erudite or articulate as Olivier?
Anthony Hopkins...
Tom hiddleston seems fairly articulate
Something about the way Laurence Olivier speaks reminds me of Robin Williams. When they weren't acting, they were both soft spoken and seemed so gentle. There are precious few actors like them these days. I think the closest is Anthony Hopkins who is both a legendary actor and a humble man but he's one of the last of a dying breed.
Hopkins in “The Father” is brilliant.
It’s more than his eloquence. Olivier’s sincerity glued me to the screen, before Milton and after. I especially enjoyed his honesty regarding the conceit of his youth and how acting is not necessarily the province of adults. I was reminded of a Peter Lorre quote that it’s a profession that consists of “making faces.” This charming pragmatism shows no illusion that their role is to entertain and does not elevate them as people, although it may well in our hearts. I find myself fonder of Olivier than ever before after this frankly beautiful interview.
Marlon Brando was as authentic as they come. He had a personal library of over 4,000 books and studied almost everything related to his work. The man himself is far more fascinating than his acting.
Leonardo Datore it’s interesting how some people so easily dismiss his immense talent and have the gall to call him overrated.
Agreed.
Didnt know that. I thought he was born like that. DiCaprio is notoriously well read as well. We take it for granted. These guys are dedicated.
@I8thumper That is kind of unrelated at best and a direct support for Brando being an intellect.
First of all he despised the movie star actor world and secondly he wanted to save his neuron pathways for headier stuff than movie scripts.
@@orangewarm1 DiCaprio is not deep or interesting, he never dates a woman over the age of 21.
The guy is simply the definition of the word class. I could listen to him for ten hours straight no problem.
When he did the Milton part and looked directly into the camera it felt like he was looking directly at me. Im sure most people feel the same . What an amazing actor and human being.
Whatever was going on in Surrey at the turn of the century to produce the velvet voices of Olivier and Ronald Colman deserves serious investigation.
at the end of the Milton verse he looks at Cavett , shutting his eyes for a fraction of a second as if saying : " what do yo think of THAT!"
Some studio executives wanted Olivier to play The Godfather. I would love to see that screentest.
Olivier,the greatest voice of all time.mesmerising.
What a decent, intelligent, and funny human being he was.
An exemplary actor and person.
He was merely very good at playing a decent person. 🥸
@@joejohnson6327 Perhaps, but I'm a sucker for giving people the benefit of the doubt, especially for those I admire.
Sir Laurence Olivier in Khartoum. WOW!
I feel unconsciously captured …. Sir Laurence Olivier: Tone, eloquence, timing, expression and appearance - all masterful , all immaculate - his serious expression is as intimidating as his smile is warm and engaging. Thank you for making this wonderful jewel available to the world.
The greatest theatrical actor of all time giving praise to the most influential cinematic actor of all time.
This comment says it all.👏🏼👏🏼Thomas.
I've watched three of his really old movies in a row from 1938 -1940 and apart from the obviously wonderful physical magnetism and looks, he's different in all of them REALLY different.
Laurence Olivier is one of Hollywood's legendary greats!
Jimmy Fallon interrupts constantly. Don’t watch him any more.
@Ulysses432 He's comparing the two and he's right. Interviewers today are waiting for a pause so they can jump in and get the attention back on themselves.
@Ulysses432 Get... a... life...
@Ulysses432 This is why you can't get laid.
@Ulysses432 Well, I'm 4, so...
Mr. Cavett is obviously an intelectual and a gentleman, and the freaks of todays I don't even want to mention. Graham Norton - you're the only gentleman now.
I think it's the sense of awe and respect for what the person has achieved on top of their being so eloquent that makes a great interview. When they talk, and they often do it so eagerly and entertaingly, you just shut up and listen.
We do forget how magical films would have been to audiences in the 1920's.
I always love how his eyes flirt with a room.
Realise he knew he was going to be asked to do the Milton, they rehearsed it for lighting, and that every anecdote, whilst seemingly pulled up in the moment was actually planned. Being this classy and casual takes years of dedication.
An incredible actor, human being, scholar and being so incredibly handsome doesn't hurt. What a class act. He and Richard Burton are bar none the best of the best. What class. What a Legend. RIP Sir Lawrence Olivier. You are sorely missed!
Not incredibly handsome
@@mitchelll3879 Then you're a blind.
The subject of Brando is only the beginning. Stay to the end for "a bit of Milton", a request from Cavett.
Sir Laurence: It's a sexy bit.
Caveat: It's late.
"Acting is a masochistic form of exhibitionism".
Legend Gentlemen English