Supporting roles in TV-shows - As important as the main characters?

Sure, what would 'The Sopranos' be without James Gandolfini? Would Breaking Bad have made it to 5 seasons if it hadn't been for the amazing job Bryan Cranston has done with his character? Could anyone else have pulled off the role of Luther as good as Idris Elba did in the self-titled show?

1. (Probably not much)
2. (Absolutely not)
3. (No)

If a TV-show lacks a believable lead character, chances are it won't make it past a pilot, let alone a season. You can probably add a few adjectives to the last sentence. Sympathetic, likable, interesting, complex... They're not all definite. I do love Breaking Bad and Bryan Cranston's portrayal of Walter White, however I do not find his character very sympathetic or likable. Interesting however, very much so.

However, for me to really enjoy a TV-show, there needs to be other ingredients working in the recipe as well. It can't all be meat. You need the gravy, the red wine and your vegetables as well. Here's where the supporting cast comes in, and the characters (and casting of them) are essential. I've already written about some of my favorite supporting roles in TV-shows here.

Here follows a couple of characters I feel really contributes to their respective TV-show:

Mike - Breaking Bad

played by Jonathan Banks

Jonathan Banks as Mike in Breaking Bad

Showed up at the end of season 2, and quickly became one of my favorite characters on the show. Stone cold killer with a coolness and sense of old-school gangsterism that gave a new dimension to the show. Whereas most of the bad guys in the show up until this point had been young drug-dealers, Mike was instantly on par with his co-actors with his deep voice and calm presence. Continuing on my food-allorgy, Mike would definitely have been the gravy. 

Mike was also in one of the funniest scenes from the show, as he and Walter completely ignores Jesse's attempt of suggesting the use of magnets for one of their little... side projects: 

Alice Morgan - Luther

played by Ruth Wilson

Ruth Wilson IS Alice Morgan

In the pilot episode of 'Luther', one of the most interesting relationships in modern TV is formed, that of Luther and Alice Morgan. With her parents found dead, Alice is brought in for questioning, and magic happens. Idris Elba is brilliant as Luther, but Alice Morgan is the red wine, the gravy and quite possibly the vegetables as well in this masterpiece of a TV-show. 

Doug Stamper - House of Cards

Played by Michael Kelly

Michael Kelly as the right-hand man in 'House of Cards'. 

Although possibly slightly overrated, 'House of Cards' was/is still a very good show, with Kevin Spacey in a role pretty much perfect for him. Robin Wright is impressive in her role as well, but to me Michael Kelly was one of, if not THE most, impressive bit players in the show. Michael Kelly is made for these roles, business-types or agents, but he still shone in Kevin Spacey's presence. An honorable mention also to Corey Stoll as Peter Russo who did an exceptional job as well. 

In addition to these, here are a few personal favorites from other TV-shows. Some as part of the main cast (though not lead-character), some in smaller parts. 

Rachel Menken in Mad Men - played by Maggie Siff

- One of the first women that challenged Don Draper. Loved her on the show, and still enjoy her performances on 'Sons of Anarchy', where she was especially impressive in her last scene last season.

Sloan in The Newsroom - played by Olivia Munn

- Socially awkard and brutally intelligent in her field. Together with Thomas Sadoski as Don Keefer quite possibly the most interesting and funny characters of the show so far in season 2. 

Rebecca Halliday in The Newsroom - played by Marcia Gay Harden

- Very little screen-time so far, but the addition of Marcia Gay Harden in the second season is promising. Great actress, and she's already done much with the little time she's been given. More of Rebecca, please!

Pamela in Louie - played by Pamela Adlon

- The chemistry between Louis C.K. and Pamela is amazing. Some of the best scenes of the show are the ones with the two of them together. 

Chris Sanchez in Damages/Reese Lansing in The Newsroom - both played by Chris Messina

I like Chris Messina. He's got something. He can perfectly well play an asshole, but is equally good as one of the good guys. Did a great job on Damages, as most of the supporting cast, and I always enjoy his smugness as Reese Lansing in The Newsroom. 

Which are your favorites?

A picture can speak volumes

Here's a selection of a few great photos of actors/actresses/movies. I recommend following FilmmakerIQ.com on Facebook or Twitter for lots of great (often rare) photos from the world of film. The photos are all from their pages.

R.I.P. James Gandolfini (1961-2013)

Tommy Lee Jones looking happy as ever, and Meryl Streep highly entertained.

Mads Mikkelsen, who has done a great job portraying a young Hannibal Lecter in the show 'Hannibal'

Sir Anthony Hopkins, who made Hannibal one of the most notorious characters in film history.

Claudia Cardinale, one of the stars of 'Once Upon a Time in the West (1968)

Melanie Laurent in 'Inglorious Basterds. She can sing too.

Robert De Niro and a mirror. Say no more...

Audrey Tautou far from her role in 'Amélie'

The wonderful Marion Cotillard playing around...

Steve Carell and Ryan Gosling, the stars of 'Crazy, Stupid, Love'

Robert De Niro, Martin Scorsese and Harvey Keitel. Legends.

Patricia Arquette and Christian Slater in the highly entertaining 'True Romance'

The Denzel. 

Marion Cotillard. Photo by Annie Leibovitz.

Meryl Streep and Al Pacino. Two of the greats.

Paul Rudd suiting up. And then some...

And his co-star of 'I Love You, Man', Rashida Jones. 

Robert De Niro and his partner-in-crime Joe Pesci

Daniel Day-Lewis, an actor's actor. 

Sandra Bullock. Gotta love her...

John Goodman - Mr. Awesome

Photo by Paola Kudacki

With 133 credits to his name on imdb.com, the go-to-site for movie-enthusiasts, John Goodman might be considered one of the most busy actors in the industry. Naturally, with such an extensive list of movies, some are less memorable than others. The fact remains, however, that this is one of the most awesome guys in film. Ever. Although Jeff Bridges plays The Dude in 'The Big Lebowski', in many ways John Goodman seems to be The Dude in real life.

John Goodman is one of those actors that makes me go from "Probably not gonna see that movie" to "Oh, I'll definitely check it out". He has this special aura about him that makes you want him as your best friend, as he was to The Dude in 'The Big Lebowski', and for Denzel Washington's character in "Flight". In the former he provided us with some of the most hilarious moments of the movie, while in the latter he provided Denzel's character with some of the most illegal substances of the movie. Nevertheless, you can always count on John Goodman to provide you with something highly entertaining, and here are some of my favorite John Goodman-performances (in random order):

Fallen

Denzel Washington and John Goodman is a good combination, and this movie is an entertaining flick. Not a great movie, but definitely one worth watching if you appreciate fine acting. As well as perfect use of a Rolling Stones-classic. Not only does the movie have the aforementioned duo in the cast, but also starring in the movie are James Gandolfini, Elias Kostas and Donald Sutherland (the cool Sutherland). 

Trailer: 

The Big Lebowski

One of his most memorable roles, obviously. This is also the movie he has said to have his favorite project to have been working on. The eulogy-speech is one of the funniest moments in the movie (in any movie), but it is just one of his many amazing lines in this movie. Walter Sobchak - the man who would never bring a dog bowling, and who definitely wouldn't roll on Shabbos. 

John Goodman in 'The Big Lebowski'

Bringing out the Dead

The underrated Martin Scorsese movie had several great things about it. Nicolas Cage in one of his best roles, greatly helped obviously by the chemistry he had with John Goodman was one of it. Despite the dark content of the movie, there is still room for a couple of laughs, Goodman often being the provider of this. Also watch out for a cameo by singer Marc Anthony (and a funny one too). The movie has certain resemblances with Scorsese's earlier work, especially 'Taxi Driver'. Although obviously not as good as the 70s classic, the movie depicts loneliness, helplessness, a gritty New York City and the screenplay was written by the same person, Paul Schrader. 

O Brother, Where Art Thou?

There's a good chance John Goodman will at least play a bit part when it comes to a movie by the Coen Brothers, and this movie is no exception. One of my favorite movies by the Coen-brothers, and Goodman delivers... as usual. 

Flight

In a movie carried by Denzel Washington's strong performance, John Goodman's appearance is a genius touch. His hippie style, and give-a-f*** attitude is a much needed breath of fresh air in a movie mostly dominated by the tragic look at the life of a person struggling with alcoholism. Here's one of his scenes from the movie, accompanied by Rolling Stones (Rolling Stones was, as mentioned, also used in 'Fallen', another Denzel/John Goodman movie). 

West Wing

John Goodman made a guest-appearence in four episodes of this amazing show, with this probably being the most memorable one: 

Damages

As Howard T. Erickson, John Goodman was brilliant in the fourth season of 'Damages'. The show has consistently had great seasonal guest appearances, and John Goodman was no exception. Here's a clip of him talking about his role on the show: 

Vera Farmiga - Jersey Girl

The wonderful Vera Farmiga

A while back I wrote about Titus Welliver, an actor I really do appreciate, yet feel doesn't get the attention he deserves. In a way, I'd say the same goes for Vera Farmiga. Born in New Jersey, she was raised Catholic by her Ukrainian parents, and didn't even learn English until she was 6 years old. Though nominated for an Oscar back in 2009 for her role in 'Up in the Air', her name is not too often seen dominating the film scene. However, she has been cast in a few more leading roles after her oscar-nomination, and her acting talent has given her a nice collection of nominations and great parts. These days she can be seen as Norma Bates on the TV-show 'Bates Motel', a sort of prequel to the story of the infamous Norman Bates in Hitchcocks classic movie 'Psycho'. A somewhat brave decision from Farmiga, as taking on the role of such a famous character is bound to upset a few film fans, especially considering the show is pushed forward to the present date. Having only seen the pilot episode, Farmiga shines in the role, and is as mesmerizing as she is creepy as the young Norman Bates' manipulating mother.

Vera Farmiga in 'Bates Motel'

Playing in the big league

It was in 'Running Scared' I first really took notice of Vera Farmiga. The movie is one of those movies that really never lets you catch your breath, and a very positive surprise. Farmiga stars as Teresa Gazelle, the girlfriend of an undercover federal agent played by Paul Walker (!). Fast-paced with lots of memorable scenes, it's one to watch if you are looking for a roller coaster movie. However, it was in another movie released that year she really started making a name for herself, playing with some of the finest actors in film. In 'The Departed', she does a great job as Madolyn. Martin Scorsese had originally wanted a more known actress for the part (such as Hilary Swank), but eventually decided to go for a less known actress. Farmiga did not disappoint, and she has some great scenes with Matt Damon in the movie. 

Vera Farmiga and Matt Damon in 'The Departed'

She went on to star in the critically acclaimed 'Boy in the Striped Pyjamas', before she starred as George Clooney's love interest one night stand in 'Up in The Air'. A great performance in the movie gave her an Oscar-nomination, and she has later been seen in movies such as 'Source Code', 'Orphan' and 'Safe House'. She also made her directorial debut in 2011 with the movie 'Higher Ground'.

Vera today

As mentioned, today Vera Farmiga can be seen in the TV-show 'Bates Motel', and this summer you can see her in the horror/thriller 'The Conjuring'. Although not a huge fan of horror, Vera Farmiga is good enough a reason for me to check out the movie. Here are a few trailers of movies featuring the actress. 

'The Conjuring'

'Running Scared'

'Bates Motel' (TV-show)

'Up in the Air'

'The Departed'

Those eyes...

Al Pacino - An actor's actor

It's hard to believe now, 41 years later, that Al Pacino was very close to losing out on the part as Michael Corleone in 'The Godfather'. Francis Ford Coppola had to fight Paramount to keep both the job as a director, and the young Pacino as the main character. Paramount wanted a bigger name for the part, but luckily Coppola managed to keep both himself and Pacino attached to the project all the way through. 41 years after the release of the movie, Al Pacino has starred in almost 50 movies, and is widely regarded as one of the finest actors in film history.

Discussions around the casting of Michael Corleone, including auditions from both James Caan and Martin Sheen for the part.

It's hard not to like Al Pacino. Not only is he an accomplished actor who has given us so many memorable moments, but he also shows a true love for the work he does. Maybe that is the reason why he's never been married? Although 50 movies might seem a low number compared to some of the old-timers, it's a very impressive number if you consider the content of his work. Not only has he done great and demanding character portrayals on film, but he has also done quite a lot of work in the theatre. He also did a brilliant performance in the HBO Miniseries 'Angels in America'.

The Bronx-born actor has one Academy Award, for his performance in 'Scent of a Woman', in which he plays a retired blind Lieutenant Col. in the US army. Chris O'Donnell said about working with Pacino in the movie:

"... at the same time I thought this is gonna be great, cause he'll be watching me, and I'll get some.. some really constructive feedback from him. Well, we finished up shooting and hadn't really heard anything from him, and.. we had the wrap party, and hadn't really heard anything from him.. and finally I got a letter from him.. which I saved, and.. was very excited to get a letter from Al Pacino. He says: I couldn't tell what you were doing, because I sort of never saw you. Although it felt as if you were always with me, and from what I've heard your performance is outstanding."

This quote does show Al Pacino's unique ability to really go deep into his characters. His character was blind, so essentially Al Pacino himself was also blind during the shooting. A brilliant performance well worthy of an Oscar, it is still puzzling that he's "only" received one Academy Award throughout his career. Many would argue he has earned quite a few, although he does have 8 nominations in total. When he won the lead role for 'Scent of a Woman' in 1992, he was also nominated for his supporting role in 'Glengarry Glen Ross'. He has also received Oscar-nominations for 'The Godfather', 'Dick Tracy' (supporting roles), 'Serpico', 'The Godfather Part II', 'Dog Day Afternoon' and '...And Justice For All'. Add to this 4 Golden Globes and 2 Emmy's, as well as numerous other awards and achievements.

Some of his best moments

Here are a couple of Al Pacino's most memorable moments on film, including two of those speeches that will be right there on the top of the lists when it comes to Film Monologues. 

Any Given Sunday

Now that is what you call a proper pep talk. 

Scent of a Woman

"I'm too old, I'm too tired, I'm too fucking blind..."

Scarface

Al Pacino sets the tone for the movie with this amazing opening scene as he has just arrived in the US. 

Heat

Pacino being... Pacino

Dog Day Afternoon

The infamous Attica-scene

The Godfather

In this scene, following the McClusky-scene which led to his escape to Sicily, Michael Corleone continues to show that he is a man who knows how to get what he wants. 

Making a list of memorable scenes with Al Pacino has the potential to fill up the internet, so I'm gonna leave it here for now. However, I'd highly recommend the following video for those interested in listening to a man truly in love with his profession. 

Al Pacino at 'Inside the Actors Studio'

Who was offered the role, you say?

Some roles are done so brilliantly by actors that it´s hard to imagine them being done by anyone else then the ones that did the movie. However, there are plenty of examples of roles that were offered to others prior to the final casting of the part. Here are a few examples movies that could´ve been quite different, and actors/actresses that have been in the running for parts they (for various reasons) did not end up doing.

Goodfellas

This could´ve been Joe Pesci, Sean Penn and Al Pacino...

Robert De Niro played the part of James ´Jimmy´ Conway perfectly, and considering his many movies with director Martin Scorsese, it might come as a surprise that Al Pacino was actually offered the role. Pacino declined the role, fearing it might lead him to being typecasted, a decision he has admitted to regretting later on. John Malkovich also turned down the role. 

In the same movie, Ray Liotta plays the lead character Henry Hill. Arguably one of his best performances, Liotta himself has said that Sean Penn was considered for the part. Alec Baldwin also auditioned for the role. 

Ellen Barkin was considered for the part of Henry Hill´s wife, Karen Hill. The part eventually ended up being played by Lorraine Bracco (Dr. Jennifer Melfi in The Sopranos).

The Shawshank Redemption

Clint Eastwood and Charlie Sheen? Paul Newman and Johnny Depp? Lots of actors were considered, but in the end Morgan Freeman and Tim Robbins got the parts of Red and Andy in ´The Shawshank Redemption´. 

As much as Al Pacino might have regretted turning down Goodfellas, I´d say Kevin Costner´s decision to turn down the role of Andy Dufresne might be an even bigger mistake. Especially considering he did so as he was attached to an other movie at the time. That movie was Waterworld...

The Oscar-nominated director Rob Reiner tried to buy the rights for the movie-script for The Shawshank Redemption, and had his offer been accepted, Tom Cruise and Harrison Ford were his choices for the roles of Andy and Red, respectively.

Other actors considered for the role of Andy (which in the end was played wonderfully by Tim Robbins) were Nicolas Cage, Charlie Sheen, Johnny Depp and Tom Hanks. The letter was however committed to Forrest Gump at the time, and could not accept an offer for the job.

Before Morgan Freeman landed the role of Red other actors considered were Clint Eastwood, Paul Newman and Robert Redford.

Brad Pitt was also set to play in the movie, as the character Tommy Williams, but this part in the end fell to Gil Bellows. 

Brad Pitt

Brad Pitt (here in 12 Monkeys) has had a LOT of job-offers...

Speaking of Brad Pitt, it is no surprise that he has been in the running for many parts other then the ones he´s played. An actor of huge diversity, he proved his acting range during a magic couple of years during the 90s. After his breakthrough performance in Thelma & Louise, many considered him just a pretty boy. However, after showing off his comedic skills in True Romance, his touch of drama in movies such as Legends of the Fall, Se7en and Interview With a Vampire, he hit a home run with his Oscar-nominated performance in 12 Monkeys. As Jeffrey Goines he cemented himself as one of the rising star actors in the film industry. But what about the movies he just almost took part in?

- He turned down a role in Apollo 13 due to his commitment to Se7en.
- He was considered for the lead role in The Matrix.
- Was considered for the role of Willy Wonka in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
- Was considered for the role in Crimson Tide which eventually went to Denzel Washington.
- Was in the running together with Russell Crowe for the part in American Gangster.

Six degrees of... replacements

Jodie Foster won an Academy Award for her performance in Silence of the Lambs, but only after Michelle Pfeiffer had turned down the role....

Michelle Pfeiffer on the other hand was considered for the lead role in Mamma Mia, a role which eventually went to Meryl Streep...

.... who was considered for the lead role in Evita, which in the end was played by Madonna....

.... who wanted the role in Basic Instinct, which eventually was played by Sharon Stone....

Sharon Stone auditioned for the role of Vicki Vale in Batman, a role that in the end went to Kim Basinger...

Kim Basinger was set to star in Boxing Helena, but tried to renegotiate her contract... it failed, and she was ordered to pay $8 million after the producers of the movie sued her. In the end, she did not have to pay the money, but the role ended up going to Sherilyn Fenn...

Same, but different?

Trying to imagine Goodfellas without Ray Liotta and Robert De Niro seems hard. The movie is a masterpiece, and despite the brilliance of other actors considered, could it have been as good? It´s impossible to say. However, even this short look at movie-casting speaks volumes of the power of film. Changing just one actor can change a whole movie. Would any other actor have pulled of the look Robert De Niro did in a crucial scene in Goodfellas? How would Brad Pitt have pulled off the lead role in the Matrix? Could Meryl Streep have added to her Oscar-cabinet if she had participated in Evita? We will never know. To me, this is a magical aspect of movies. The fact that with just one tiny change in the setup of the movie (wether the casting of a lead actor or a small supporting role), a movie can have a whole new life. A whole new meaning. It can go from great to mediocre. From poor to okay. From forgettable to top class. 

It´s magical because it says a lot about Film as Art. And it says a lot about how much potential a movie can have. And last, but not least, it says a lot about how important the job of a casting agent is...