| The Power and the Glory - 1961 |
Laurence Olivier as a failed Mexican priest
fleeing persecution. Olivier wanted to look part Mexican, so I gave
him foam rubber lips (my first attempt) glued on with spirit gum,
wider nostrils and filled in the inner part of his eye sockets.
Taping took 7 days averaging 20 hours each!
Of all actors, Olivier was my idol. Let me give
you a sample of his unique kindness. I quote from a note he sent in
1981: "Nowadays, being lazy as well as ancient, if I get an
offer, an event that is less and less frequent, I'm inclined to say,
"Is there any make-up? If so, don't bother to send me the script"!
Time was when I was never happier than applying a make-up that could
take me up to 4 1/2 hours. I suppose that I would not mind being
you, with a particular genius for laying it all upon other faces,
but I don't want to lay it on my own anymore. But, I would be so
pleased to give you the doubtful privilege, if only to see you
again."