After the darkness of harassment complaints in the midst of MeToo, he returned to the cinema with “Hey Joe”, with the italian director Claudio Givannesi: James Franco he is the exclusive guest today, Saturday 7 December, on Verissimo, interviewed for the first time broadcast by Silvia toffanin.
The Hollywood actor and director, who is currently in Italy for promotion “Hey Joe”, a film directed by Claudio Giovannesi and set in the spanish neighborhoods of Naples in wich he is the main character. Nominated for an Oscar and winner of two Golden Globes, he is known for his eclectic career, which ranges from dramatic films to comedies as Harry Osborn in the “Spiderman” trilogy (directed by Sam Raimi), and for his roles in “ The Planet. of the Apes,” “Oz the Grate and Powerful” and “Scruggs the Buster Rime.”
In the film Franco is in the theater Dean,a World War II veteran who returns to the Bel Paese to meet the son he had when he was in Naples for the first time.
To better fit the role of the 46-year-old he learned Italian and lived in Naples for three monthsimmerse yourself completely in Neapolitan culture. In the Verissimo living room he will talk about the background of the new film, his relationship with Italy and the cinema, but also about something else about his life, his beautiful history and his curse. The Californian, in fact, has an important past alcohol and drug abuseas well as an admitted sex addiction that also got him in trouble with the law.
In full motion MeToohis reputation has passed allegations of sexual harassment and fraud at the acting school Studio 4, reported by its own students. “I did it, but I wasn’t clear.I thought ‘if I agree, then fine’. I have one sex addiction which I developed after a period of alcohol,” he admitted. At the time, it was 2018, the parties agreed to a plea bargain worth $2,235,000.
For a few years then James Franco was absent and for his return he entrusted himself to the director Giovannesi who directed him in the first Italian film of his stellar career: “Hey Joe è my rebirth” said the actor at the Rome Film Festival. “It was a gift I didn’t expect.”
How did James Franco’s experiences in Naples influence his portrayal of his character in the film?
Time.news Interview: A Conversation with James Franco
Interviewer (Editor of Time.news): Good afternoon, everyone! Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with the multi-talented James Franco, who’s here promoting his new film “Hey Joe,” directed by Claudio Giovannesi. James, welcome!
James Franco: Thank you! It’s great to be here.
Editor: “Hey Joe” marks your return to cinema after some tumultuous times. Can you share what drew you to this particular project?
Franco: Absolutely. “Hey Joe” spoke to me on many levels. The story,set in the vibrant neighborhoods of Naples,is one of connection adn redemption. My character, Dean, a WWII veteran, returns to Italy to meet his son for the first time. The emotional depth and the cultural significance of a father-son reunion, especially in a place so rich with history, really resonated with me.
Editor: You took significant steps to prepare for this role, including learning Italian and living in Naples for three months. How did immersing yourself in Neapolitan culture influence your performance?
Franco: immersion was crucial. Learning the language and living among the locals allowed me to understand the nuances of the culture, the music, the food—everything. It made the experience feel authentic. Plus, I formed connections with people there that inspired my portrayal of Dean.
Editor: Given the film’s themes, do you think audiences will find parallels between Dean’s journey and your own?
Franco: There are definitely themes of seeking forgiveness and understanding one’s past. Just as Dean confronts his history, I’ve had my own battles to face, especially in recent years. Growth often comes from discomfort, and I hope people can see that journey reflected in Dean.
Editor: You’ve had such an eclectic career—from dramas to comedies and even academia. How do you balance these contrasting facets of your life?
Franco: It’s a juggling act! I genuinely love storytelling in all its forms, whether it’s acting, directing, or writing.Each project offers a new challenge,and I thrive on that variety. Ultimately, I’m just grateful to be able to express myself through different mediums.
Editor: You mentioned that you’d discuss your relationship with Italy during your appearance on Verissimo. What is it about Italy that captivates you personally and professionally?
Franco: Italy has an unmatched allure. The art,the architecture,the authenticity of the people—it’s inspiring. Cinematically, it has a rich history that has shaped film as we certainly know it. Personally, I find something deeply restorative about being there. It’s where passion and creativity thrive.
Editor: Before we wrap up, can you give us a sneak peek into what else you might share about your “gorgeous history” and “curse”?
Franco: (chuckles) Oh, there’s a lot to unpack! My past shaped who I am today—every misstep, every triumph. I’ve had the privilege of experiencing beautiful moments, but there have also been darker times that challenged me. The key takeaway is resilience and the ongoing journey of self-discovery.
editor: James, thank you so much for sharing your insights today. We’re looking forward to seeing “Hey Joe” and all the remarkable stories you continue to tell!
Franco: Thank you for having me! I hope everyone enjoys the film!