Clive Owen: Acting is all about rhythm and timing
Even before he graduated from secondary school, Clive Owen knew what he wanted to do with his life.
"I was 13 years old and performed in a play at school, and from that time I was absolutely clear that acting was what I wanted to do," recalls the British-born theatre, television and film star. "I feel very lucky to have known from such a young age. Lots of people struggle to find their vocation in life."
He went on to star in Patrick Marber's play and film (the latter of which earned him an Oscar nomination for best supporting actor in 2005); popular hits such as , and ; and the critically acclaimed as a former political activist out to save humanity.
"Acting is all about rhythm and timing, both in the doing of it and also throughout a career," Owen says. "Every actor will tell you that getting breaks at the right time is hugely important. For me, getting a place at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art when I was 19 was a huge opportunity and getting certain film roles at certain times really helped my career."
Having played everything from an aspiring writer-turned-croupier to King Arthur, Ernest Hemingway and a chauffeur to the stars for a series of short films for BMW, Owen is not one to be typecast.
"If you look at my career as a whole, it's a very mixed bag. I think the fact that I trained in the theatre gives me an appetite to want to play lots of different characters and not get stuck into playing one kind of role," he says.
Over the years, the actor - and occasional executive producer (for 2009's Australian drama and the upcoming miniseries ) - has developed a keen sense of managing time and energy.
"In some ways, making movies is a lot about managing time. Knowing when you have to deliver as an actor and making sure you have the right energy levels and focus is hugely important," says Owen, whose favourite way to unwind is spending time at home with his two daughters.
His latest releases include , which debuted at this year's Cannes Film Festival, and , in which he plays an English teacher with Juliette Binoche as his art-teacher love interest. He will also appear in action/adventure film with Morgan Freeman, currently in post-production.
"The beauty of being an actor is that each new challenge opens up a new world of possibility," Owen says.
"For me, success has always been about getting the chance to work with the most talented people. I tend to always be looking forward, and think the next movie is the most important."
