One of the most intense actors of our time, with an impeccable filmography, from Jim Jarmusch to Noah Baumbach, in the cast of Francis Ford Coppola’s new film, «Megalopolis», is the face of Burberry Hero Parfum.
Former Marine Adam Driver came to the attention of the general public with «Girls», the series created by and starring Lena Dunham. Since then, the forty-year-old actor has starred in a variety of films, from blockbusters like «Star Wars» to auteur films like Scorsese’s «Silence» .Nominated twice for an Oscar , for Spike Lee’s «BlacKkKlansman» and Noah Baumbach’s «Marriage Story» , he was Maurizio Gucci in «House of Gucci» alongside Lady Gaga , and Enzo Ferrari in Michael Mann’s «Ferrari» . There is much anticipation for his role in Coppola’s next film, «Megalopolis» , which will be released in Italian theaters on October 16, 2024 and was presented at the Cannes Film Festival last May.
What are the films that have radically changed the way you approach work?
ADAM DRIVER: I don’t want to sound vague, but they all gave me something, and none of them radically changed my vision of the world. For example, I love Jim Jarmusch’s writing (with whom Driver has worked twice, on «Paterson» in 2016 and on «The Dead Don’t Die » in 2019, ed.), his ability to slow down the pace on set when many directors tend to speed up because they think it suits their personality better or that it’s useful for the film. And I would immediately work again with Leos Carax, with whom I shot «Annette» (in 2021).
Which actors impress you the most?
AD: The list is long… Danny Glover is wonderful. He knows how to listen, how to hold back and how to go over the top when necessary.
You took part in Francis Ford Coppola’s new film, «Megalopolis», can you tell us about this experience?
AD: It was crazy! Nothing like it has ever been seen… I don’t want to reveal too much, it will definitely be a must-see in theaters.
Are you sensitive to the style of your characters?
AD: Sometimes I only find my character when I start wearing their costumes. I pay special attention to the shoes: after all, you literally have to walk in their footsteps! And feeling the ground under my feet like my character is important to me.
You are the face of Burberry Hero Parfum. What feelings does it evoke in you?
AD: My childhood, marked by the smell of burning wood, which I find in its olfactory identity. In San Diego, my family would organize bonfires on the beach every Friday. In my neighborhood in Brooklyn, many buildings still have working fireplaces and their smell accompanies my walks in the winter. I regularly go upstate New York, where there are many fireplaces. I really like this archaic aspect.
How would you define the identity of Burberry Hero Parfum?
AD: For me it is universal, it appeals to both men and women, which explains its success. I would never have imagined being invited to participate in such a campaign, because I am not very familiar with this world. There were several elements that attracted me: the fact that it was Burberry , that Jonathan Glazer directed the advertising film and that Mario Sorrenti took care of the photos, all guarantees of quality. Burberry has a long tradition of high artistic standards, so I was sure that everything would be perfect. I was more excited than nervous.
What’s your favorite smell?
AD: Burnt wood… And the smell of my children.