Inside the Actors Studio Season 2 Episode 7 Jessica Lange

Inside the Actors Studio is an American television show which began in 1994. It is hosted by James Lipton and is a series of interviews with various actors, directors and writers. The show has gained a reputation for its in-depth interviews and the format is to engage with the guests in a conversational tone and explore their life story, their experiences within the industry, and their craft as actors.

In season 2 episode 7, James Lipton interviews the talented Jessica Lange. Known for her iconic performances in films such as "Tootsie" and "Frances", Lange has been recognized with numerous awards throughout her career, including two Academy Awards, three Emmy Awards, and five Golden Globe Awards. What sets Lange apart is her ability to play a wide range of characters, from dramatic to comedic, and everything in between.

The episode begins with Lipton introducing Lange and their discussion starts with her early years. She talks about growing up in Minnesota and her decision to study art and photography in Paris. Lange reveals how she stumbled into acting by accident when she was discovered by a talent scout while working as a waitress in New York City.

Lange goes on to discuss how she got her first break on the big screen with the remake of "King Kong" in 1976, but it was her role in the biographical film "Frances" in 1982 that gained her critical acclaim. She talks about the challenge of playing a real person who had such a tragic life, and how she approached the role with sensitivity.

As the conversation continues, Lipton asks Lange about her experience working with other actors and directors, such as Dustin Hoffman, Sydney Pollack, and Sam Shepard. Lange shares details about working on "Tootsie" with Hoffman and how their dynamic on set influenced their performances. She also reveals how she formed a close bond with Shepard while working on "Fool for Love".

Lange's ability to play complex characters is a topic that is explored throughout the interview. Lipton asks Lange about her process of getting into character and how she approaches playing characters with different personalities, emotions, and backgrounds. Lange discusses how she uses her own life experiences to enrich her performances, as well as how she delves into the internal life of the characters she portrays.

One of the highlights of this episode is when Lange discusses her acclaimed performance in the TV series "American Horror Story". She talks about how an initial skepticism about the genre flipped into genuine appreciation for the show and her character, and how working in television challenged her as an actor. Lange also talks about how she managed to make the complex character of Constance Langdon resonate with audiences.

Throughout the interview, Lange is candid and insightful, and sheds light on her life and work as an actor. She reveals her perspective on aging in Hollywood, the challenge of balancing work and family life, and even her thoughts on her own legacy. Her passion for acting resonates throughout the conversation, and it is clear that she has a deep love for her craft.

In conclusion, this episode of Inside the Actors Studio featuring Jessica Lange is a fascinating exploration of one of the most talented actors of our time. Lange's stories are engaging, funny and, sometimes, touching, and her insights into the craft of acting are illuminating. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in the process of creating memorable performances on stage and screen.