Billy Bob Thornton and Virginia Madsen Talk about The Astronaut Farmer

Recently I had the chance to speak with the talented duo of Virginia Madsen and Billy Bob Thorton during the publicity tour for their pending film "The Astronaut Farmer".

GVK: What attracted you to the part and what sort of work did you do to prepare for the part?

BBT: We both loved the script and the work of the Polish Brothers, and that fact that the film is an emotional drama that makes you feel good was a big factor.

VM: The film also was about dreaming and the characters both were very close to us.

GVK: The characters in the film were very easy to root for as they were genuine and easy to relate to. Was it tricky to play real people in such an extraordinary situation and not lose their everyman quality?

BBT: Not really as their situation was not extraordinary to them, it was their life and they saw that as ordinary.

GVK: I really appreciated the can do spirit of the film. Do you think the film is not only a kick in the butt for people to do more, and do you think that we will see more films with this sort of theme in the future?

BBT: I sure hope so. The film challenges people to dream more and not be so complacent and cynical.

VM: The film does encourage people to rise to challenges and to not be afraid to dream, which is not a bad thing.

Both commented on the fact that the characters they play have a loving family with good values. They play parents who truly love each other and their children, and both actors felt these were things that we should see more of.

GVK: What were some of your favorite moments making the film?

BBT: The carnival scenes as they were like a day off, especially for the kids and they had a lot of fun. Anytime you can spend the day dancing with Virginia is always a good day.

VM: For me it was the scene where he lost his wedding ring and they were discussing that. They were very much a real couple there, and it was one of those moments that was captured them and their love for each other.

GVK: What were some of the biggest obstacles you had during the making of the film?

VM: The fight scene at the table was very hard, as we both get along well with each other.

BBT: Learning to square dance was hard as well.