Andy Serkis Names His All-Time Favorite Movie to Rewatch
The motion-capture legend behind Gollum reveals his surprising pick for the one film he could watch endlessly, and it's not what you'd expect from the fantasy icon.
The actor who revolutionized digital filmmaking through his motion-capture work has tastes that might surprise his fans. While Andy Serkis built his reputation bringing fantastical creatures to life in blockbuster franchises, his personal viewing preferences lean toward intimate storytelling and artistic excellence.
Beyond the Digital Realm
Serkis transformed how Hollywood creates visual effects, proving that motion-capture technology could serve genuine artistic expression rather than just spectacle. His portrayal of complex digital characters demonstrated that technology and performance art could merge seamlessly. Though he's preparing to return as Gollum in a new Middle-earth project, the performer has spent recent years establishing himself as a director with varied interests.
His directorial portfolio reveals an artist eager to explore different genres and storytelling approaches. From the Netflix adaptation "Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle" to the biographical drama "Breathe" featuring Andrew Garfield and Claire Foy, Serkis has avoided being typecast behind the camera. Unfortunately, his darker take on "The Jungle Book" story suffered from poor timing, arriving after Jon Favreau's Disney remake earned nearly $1 billion worldwide.
Unexpected Creative Choices
Rather than sticking to expected territory, Serkis has made surprising creative decisions that showcase his range. He transformed the grim "Venom" sequel into a comedic romp reminiscent of directors like Joe Dante and John Landis. His upcoming animated "Animal Farm" project targets younger audiences, demonstrating his willingness to tackle diverse material.
While critics haven't universally praised his directorial efforts, Serkis continues showing growth and ambition. His choice of cinematic influences suggests he understands what makes great filmmaking work across different styles and genres.
A Masterpiece Worth Repeating
When asked about a movie he could watch repeatedly, Serkis chose Jane Campion's 1993 masterpiece "The Piano." "She's an amazing director. I love it. I absolutely adore that film," he explained. This selection reveals his appreciation for nuanced, character-driven storytelling over pure spectacle.
Campion's film starred Holly Hunter as a mute woman journeying to New Zealand with her daughter, played by Anna Paquin. Both actresses won Academy Awards for their performances, while Campion made history as one of the first women nominated for Best Director. Though she lost that category to Steven Spielberg for "Schindler's List," Campion claimed the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay.
The director became an inspiration for emerging filmmakers by highlighting New Zealand's cinematic potential and crafting personal stories that succeeded through strong word-of-mouth. Her career trajectory mirrors that of Peter Jackson, another New Zealand filmmaker who became one of Serkis's key collaborators. If Serkis continues drawing inspiration from artists like Campion and Jackson, his future behind the camera looks promising.