Ep 9. Mark Margolis

"No Small Parts" is a documentary series that focuses on the lives and careers of character actors who have left an indelible mark on American cinema and television despite never quite achieving leading-man status. The show's fourth season, episode nine looks at the career of Mark Margolis, a character actor who has had a long and varied career in film and television.

Margolis was born in Philadelphia in 1939 and began his acting career in the early 1970s, appearing in small roles on television shows such as "Kojak" and "Baretta." Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Margolis continued to work regularly in television and film, often playing tough-guy characters or small-time crooks. However, it wasn't until the 1990s that Margolis began to get noticed for his work in character roles, particularly his work with director Darren Aronofsky.

Margolis's collaboration with Aronofsky began with the director's debut feature, "Pi," in which Margolis played a Hasidic Jewish mathematician. Margolis's natural intensity and charisma made him a standout in the film, and he quickly became a fixture in Aronofsky's work. Margolis went on to appear in the director's follow-up films, "Requiem for a Dream" and "The Fountain," as well as his television series, "The Wrestler."

Margolis's work with Aronofsky led to other high-profile roles in the 2000s, including a recurring role on Showtime's "Homeland" and a supporting role in Martin Scorsese's "The Departed." Margolis continued to work steadily in film and television over the next decade, appearing in shows such as "Breaking Bad," "American Horror Story," and "Better Call Saul."

In this episode of "No Small Parts," viewers get a chance to see Margolis reflect on his long and varied career in the entertainment industry. Margolis discusses his early days as an actor, including his time as a member of the Actors Studio in New York, and talks about some of his most memorable roles over the years.

One of the highlights of the episode is when Margolis discusses his work with Aronofsky. Margolis talks about the unique chemistry he and Aronofsky have, and how the director's style of filmmaking allows him to bring his own intensity to his performances. Margolis also shares some behind-the-scenes stories from the making of "Requiem for a Dream" and "The Wrestler," including the challenges of working with live snakes on the set of the latter.

The episode also features interviews with Margolis's friends and colleagues, including Aronofsky himself. Filmmaker Mike Figgis discusses Margolis's work in his film "Timecode," while actor Giancarlo Esposito talks about their shared experience working on "Breaking Bad." It's clear from these interviews that Margolis is respected and admired by his peers, who speak glowingly of his talent and work ethic.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to clips from some of Margolis's most memorable performances. Whether it's his heartbreaking turn in "Requiem for a Dream" or his swaggering performance in "The Departed," Margolis is a force to be reckoned with on screen. The episode also features some rarely seen footage from Margolis's early work on television, giving viewers a glimpse into the actor's formative years.

Overall, this episode of "No Small Parts" is a fascinating look at one of the most talented and underrated character actors of our time. Margolis's career is a testament to the power of persistence and hard work, as well as the importance of staying true to one's craft. Whether you're a fan of his work or just a casual viewer, this episode is sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for Mark Margolis and his contributions to American cinema and television.