Ethan Hawke continues to solidify his status in cinema with his transformative role as lyricist Lorenz Hart in Richard Linklater’s new film Blue Moon. Premiering in 2025, this portrayal highlights Hawke’s intense dedication and growth, underscoring why the actor remains a vital figure in American film and theater.
A Career Marked by Versatility and Dedication
Ethan Hawke’s journey in the film industry spans over three decades, beginning with his early appearance in the acclaimed 1989 movie Dead Poets Society. He earned notable recognition through his Oscar-nominated acting in the 2001 film Training Day and further acclaim as the screenwriter for Before Sunset in 2004. This breadth of talent, both in front of and behind the camera, has made Hawke a multifaceted presence in American cinema.
Today, as the 2025 Variety Virtuoso honoree at the Miami Film Festival GEMS on November 2, Hawke’s output remains prodigious. He has embraced many projects simultaneously, from starring in Hulu’s The Low Down to directing the extensive documentary Highway 99: A Double Album about country music legend Merle Haggard. Additionally, his involvement in the horror genre continues with Black Phone 2 in theaters, demonstrating the range of his artistic pursuits.
The Making of a Complex Role in Blue Moon
Linklater’s Blue Moon emerged from a decade-long collaboration with Hawke, illustrating the patient creative process behind the film. Hawke shared insights into the development, describing it as a project that proved the saying,
“Good things come to those who wait.”
“Rick sent me the script 10 years ago. He said back then, ‘We’re not ready,’ meaning I’m not ready,”
Hawke revealed, reflecting on the long wait before production truly took off.
This patient timing allowed Hawke to fully immerse himself in the demanding role of Lorenz Hart, whose complex personality required a performance marked by subtlety and depth. Critics have responded enthusiastically to Hawke’s layered and poignant portrayal, acknowledging it as one of the finest in his career.
Collaboration and Immersion with Director Richard Linklater
Hawke’s work on Blue Moon represents his ninth collaboration with Linklater, whose directing style encourages actors to fully inhabit their roles while minimizing overt performance. According to Hawke, Linklater’s approach focused on “disappearing” into the character, rejecting any self-conscious acting.
“What Rick really wanted me to do was disappear. After a take, my way of critique, Rick would say, ‘I saw you.’ And any time he saw ‘me’ he kicked away what I was doing. It was frustrating and difficult. And rewarding. Almost like asking me, ‘Can you build this cabinet with those five tools?’”
Hawke explained.
This method deepened Hawke’s connection to Lorenz Hart, a figure very different from himself yet brought to life through this rigorous process. Hart, experienced by Hawke as a smaller stature and character actor rather than a leading man, demanded a sensitive and authentic interpretation.
Drawing from Personal Experience and Mentorship
Hawke’s portrayal of Hart tapped into his early life experiences in the New York theater world, which was often shaped by older gay men who served as mentors. He likened them to monks regarding their devotion to their craft and how they carried the weight of living with difficult social stigmas, especially in the era Hart lived in.
“I got my education in the theater from older gay men. These were intelligent men like Larry (Hart). He’s a writer and he’s a lover of life and he’s got demons and he’s in society at a time when being gay was more of an issue,”
Hawke said.
“I knew people like Larry Hart, with that extreme depth of feeling and perception and insight. They knew everything about theater, in much the same way monks treat the bible. And if you have a mentor who’s gay, you’re aware, at least back then, that they’ve spent a large part of life in the closet. I recognized them in Larry and it’s heartbreaking.”
He added emotional nuance by acknowledging an internal personal connection to the role:
“But I also have this person inside me. And Rick knew that. And I knew I was thrilled for this time at bat. This is a role that is outside my comfort zone, but I know this guy. I’ve played a lot of different characters, but in some ways Larry is the closest to my heart.”
Balancing Creativity and a Passion for Work
Throughout his diverse career as an actor, director, writer, and producer, Hawke embraces a relentless work ethic that some might call “workaholic.” However, he rejects that label, emphasizing how his creative drive brings fulfillment rather than harm.
“It makes me happy to collaborate and create things and write articles. In my view of the term, a workaholic is hurting themself. My wife understands that I love working and it’s healthy for me.”
Reflecting on his priorities, Hawke shared a personal vision that drives his creative spirit:
“I had a vivid dream recently. I had only 10 days to live. And I was OK, because I was doing exactly what I’m doing.”
Why Hawke’s Performance Matters
Ethan Hawke’s role as Lorenz Hart in Blue Moon captures the complexity of a man caught between his brilliant artistic talent and personal struggles in a less accepting society. This film adds another powerful chapter to Hawke’s distinguished career, showcasing his ability to deeply inhabit diverse characters with emotional authenticity.
As Hawke continues to take on demanding projects across different genres, his work in Blue Moon reinforces his reputation not only as a hardworking artist but as one willing to explore uncharted emotional territory. The film’s release promises to influence how audiences view both Hawke’s career and the legacy of Lorenz Hart, while also marking another milestone in Hawke’s collaborations with Richard Linklater.
