The Unlikely Partnership That Sparked a Rewriting Frenzy
In the captivating world of Taylor Sheridan's Paramount+ crime drama, "Tulsa King," an intriguing story unfolds. Sylvester Stallone, an aging mobster named Dwight Manfredi, finds himself in the unconventional setting of Tulsa, Oklahoma. This decision, ostensibly made to keep him away from the Invernizzi crime family, sets the stage for an unexpected journey.
"Tulsa King" offers a unique premise, allowing for a diverse and eclectic cast. Unlike Sheridan's other projects, such as the neo-Western "Yellowstone," this show embraces a broader narrative flexibility. Among this ragtag group of characters, one actor, Jay Will, playing Tyson Mitchell, caught Stallone's attention in a way that led to an unexpected collaboration.
Stallone, an Academy Award-nominated screenwriter for "Rocky," found himself rewriting scenes specifically for Jay Will's character. In an interview with The New York Times, Stallone described this process, emphasizing the need to capture Will's unique essence: "He has a certain rhythm... I go, 'You're not getting his essence.' So, I rewrite and overwrite."
The relationship between Will and Stallone is a fascinating one. Will's character, Tyson, starts as Dwight's driver and quickly becomes a key member of his new crime syndicate. Their on-screen chemistry is undeniable, evolving into a believable familial bond as the show progresses, especially in season 3.
Stallone was immediately drawn to Will's talent, describing it as a rare gift: "Very few actors have it... They didn't get it from Juilliard. It's just part of their birthright."
Interestingly, Will's preparation for the role might have played a part in this connection. He actively studied Stallone's best movies to understand the superstar's style. However, when they met, the chemistry was undeniable, almost suggesting a familial bond.
Their working relationship extended beyond the script. On set, they engaged in deep discussions about acting theory and ways to enhance their scenes. Stallone described their collaborative process: "We talk about adding to the scene, perhaps stopping in the middle of a sentence for a few seconds, letting the body speak. We're always changing the rhythm, and he enjoys that."
"Tulsa King" season 3 is now streaming on Paramount+, offering viewers a chance to witness this unique partnership and the creative process that unfolded behind the scenes.
And here's where it gets controversial... Do you think Stallone's decision to rewrite for a specific actor is a sign of genius or a potential pitfall? Could it limit the show's versatility? Join the discussion in the comments and share your thoughts!
