This is your second time that you are revisiting a classic character. Does it make you reflectiveIJ
Yes, I think it does, to an extent. It seems kind of fleeting and precious. I’m a lucky guy, I know that, getting a whole bunch of chances to work with great people on interesting projects.
When Colin Trevorrow(film director and screenwriter) and the others reached out to say they wanted you back, how did you reactIJ Were you surprisedIJ
SurprisedIJ You could’ve knocked me over with a feather. I don’t know if I was in shock, but somebody should’ve thrown a blanket over me. I was overtaken by sheer ecstasy. I was floating on air like someone in love, another good song, by the way. Speaking of Colin, sweet genius, what a lovely man. He’s an inspiration and too generous. Then he directed me, as Dr Malcolm and Jeff Goldblum, in the flesh, for that Super Bowl commercial and it was an unforgettable day.
He wouldn’t go back, would heIJ
Not without a real good reason. But he might feel that he could contribute something useful. He loves creatures of all kinds. He might have a yen to see how new and unexpected variations of chaos and human madness run their course. After the transformational events of a couple of decades ago, I think he might be strangely fearless.
How did you find working with JA BayonaIJ
Forgive me if I gush. I’d loved all his movies but when we got in cahoots, he was strikingly focused, passionate, brilliant, tasteful, joyful, and magnificently kind.
Is Dr Malcolm an easy man to channel, to become againIJ
I guess I think of it a little differently. It feels to me like wholehearted, immersive pretending, the serious business of play, and as for the good doctor, well, it’s always challenging to do it ideally.
Did you come up with an idea for what he has been doingIJ
I’ll bet I did. Writing about new mathematical theories and models, ethics in the use of beautiful science, respect for all life on our miraculous planet, innovative and out-of-the-box environmental protection strategies, and poetry. Continuing to support my wonderful daughter in her glorious freedom and empowerment and as a result of some memorable adventures, living life supremely at every moment.
Have you shown your children the original filmsIJ
I only showed Charlie the one minute Super Bowl spot with me and the dino. He was transfixed and then said: “Dada, Again.”
What was it like to interact with Bryce, Chris and the restIJ
It was electrifying. Not only Bryce Dallas Howard and Chris Pratt who were totally enchanting and welcoming, but the entire company was brimming with energy and creative magic. They have my undying admiration and respect. I missed seeing Geraldine Chaplin (actor), with whom I’ve done a couple of movies. I love her.
Was there scope for you to improvise anythingIJ
There was Scope (mouthwash) in my trailer which I used to freshen my breath. ImprovisationIJ I love to do it but this script was gorgeously crafted. Having said that, I might have offered a garnish or two — a sprig of parsley here, an orange slice there.