The Reluctant Gunslinger: Unveiling Denzel Washington's Surprising Journey Into the Wild West
Denzel Washington's initial reluctance to star in his first-ever Western film is explored, highlighting his ongoing partnership with director Antoine Fuqua
Summary
Denzel Washington initially hesitated to appear in his first western, The Magnificent Seven, but director Antoine Fuqua eventually convinced him to say yes.
Washington was the initial actor to be cast in the film, and his casting played a pivotal role in bringing a more contemporary and diverse perspective to the story, as compared to the original version.
Fuqua and Washington share a strong working bond, having previously worked together on Training Day and The Equalizer. This collaboration greatly influenced Fuqua's drive to have Washington on board for The Magnificent Seven.
Denzel Washington initially hesitated to star in his first western film, The Magnificent Seven. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, who also directed The Equalizer, the 2016 remake is based on the 1960 Western of the same name. Alongside Washington, the film boasts an impressive cast that includes Chris Pratt, Ethan Hawke, Vincent D’Onofrio, Matt Bomer, and Peter Sarsgaard.
According to Collider, Fuqua faced difficulties convincing Washington to take on the role. When Fuqua pitched the concept of The Magnificent Seven to Washington, the actor interrupted him by expressing his reluctance to ride a horse. However, after listening further to Fuqua's pitch, Washington eventually agreed to the project. Fuqua shared the full statement below:
Fuqua and Washington’s Ongoing Working Relationship
I approached Denzel and expressed my desire to meet him over a cup of coffee to discuss a particular movie. Denzel agreed to the meeting, and I arrived with a fully prepared pitch. I began explaining, "Picture the rising sun, and envision a man on a black horse..." Interrupting me, Denzel questioned, "Hold on, what?" I clarified, "A man riding his horse," to which Denzel promptly responded, "I'm not interested in riding a horse." Hastily, I continued, "No, no, just hear me out! It's about the Magnificent Seven..." Denzel leaned back and attentively listened as I enthusiastically presented my pitch. Despite my initial apprehension, Denzel remained engaged throughout. It took some time, but eventually, I managed to win him over and secure his agreement to be a part of the Magnificent Seven.
Washington was initially resistant, but he ultimately became the first actor chosen for The Magnificent Seven. His casting played a crucial role in the film's endeavor to re-imagine the classic Western with a contemporary perspective. In contrast to the predominantly white depiction of the original, Fuqua's version introduces a more diverse and balanced ensemble of characters from various ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
Washington's involvement in The Magnificent Seven not only brought a fresh perspective compared to the original, but also highlighted his ongoing collaboration with Fuqua. Their successful partnership began with the acclaimed crime drama Training Day in 2001, which marked a turning point in Fuqua's career after starting out in music videos. Following Training Day's success, Fuqua and Washington joined forces again for The Equalizer and its sequels.
Given the significant impact Washington had on Fuqua's career through his Oscar-winning performance in Training Day, it's understandable why Fuqua was insistent on pitching The Magnificent Seven to him. Fuqua recognized Washington's immense talent and trusted him to take on the role, even if it meant stepping into unfamiliar territory as a cowboy.
Source: Collider
