Clint Eastwood Gives Saul Rubinek the Perfect Note in Unforgiven

[@WillyBluefield]

I have a story about 'Unforgiven.' I knew Dave Peoples long before he became well known--we both lived in Berkeley in the 1970s--and he began writing the screenplay in his basement in 1975. Interestingly enough, the original title of Unforgiven was "The Cut Whore Killings," although Clint wisely changed it. However, Dave said he only made a couple of very small alterations to the script itself, and I have an original copy of the screenplay and it's true, scene by scene, line by line. I think Clint knew when not to mess with near-perfect storyline and dialogue. Dave told me Clint bought the screenplay rights about decade before he made the movie, because he wanted to play the lead role as an older man, and Dave also said Clint was a great guy who treated him more than fairly in the business end of the deal. That's my story, hope you enjoyed it.

[@fishheds]

I did. I enjoyed your story. Thanks for telling it.

[@sandralucasmelvoin292]

A very cool story thnx for sharing.

[@The_Norse_Hunk]

That's amazing, thanks for sharing man. It's a true masterpiece.

[@Godhelpus803]

Thank you for this amazing story. May I ask, are you also in the business? I mean, is that how you knew Mr. Peoples?

[@greggb1416]

Great story, thank you sir… PS., this is one of my favorite Eastwood movies…, if you ever get an opportunity to, ask Mr. peoples how in the actual hell did he come up with the line in this movie “it’s a hellava thing killin a man…, you take away all he’s got…, and all he is ever gonna have”… OMG…! That is a “line”, if there ever was…

[@ThorOdinson]

Clint Eastwood is a national treasure. It’s going to be a sad day when he passes away.

[@haydengoodall6767]

Not just a national treasure my bro, think bigger. 🤠

[@garybrockwell2031]

I can see him reaching 💯 With his poncho in his rocking chair, still having a crafty cigar🤩🎬🎭🆘🇬🇧🙏🇺🇸🤫💪

[@adamh905]

We all have it coming kid

[@binomesprite7829]

It was already a sad day when he talked to an empty stool. What an embarrassment.

[@ThorOdinson]

⁠@@binomesprite7829Nah, the only sad day was the one your dad had when he forgot to wear protection.

[@MM22966]

This guy is a really good actor. I've seen him play everything from a goofy sidekick to to the wise man to the sickest of villains.

[@SuperSayinSolidSnek]

If we're both thinking about his episode on Star Trek The next generation then I completely agree. He came off as so completely despicable, cold, and evil. Edit: as far as villains go

[@joeyquinn7429]

Niles' lawyer on "Frasier" and Daphne's fiance. Great Movie! I love the dialogue. So "plain" and minimal, yet so deep!

[@MM22966]

@@joeyquinn7429 He had an interesting role as an "embedded" documentary filmmaker on Stargate SG-1.

[@kservant71]

And a memorable role in Person of Interest.

[@CorePathway]

A Canadian treasure

[@secularbeast1751]

Saul was great in Unforgiven. His character arc from being smug and full of himself as he kept company with famous gunslingers, to the abject terror of a man who knows he's in over his head when he sees what an uncontrollable force of nature Munny is at the end, was a wonderful piece of acting.

[@hurleymacmaster8262]

His terror gives you the full story of how scary Munny is.

[@d8nh20s]

Very well stated!

[@KorithStoneheart]

He thinks he writing a story about the fiercest gunfighter until he meets little Bill, then he meets Munney and is like, oh, damn.

[@davidturnbull7922]

Saul; what a great actor. Deserves more recognition for his work. Big time.

[@billyhomeyer7414]

I loved warehouse 13

[@scribe56]

Oh my god he can play anything. Whenever I see his name in a cast of a show. I don't move from my chair. He can be so sweet. Or incredibly evil or very funny. He seems like somebody who would be very down to earth and fun to meet and talk to. I wish people like him would get more credit for the work they do. When I look at a cast list for a movie

[@scribe56]

I always look for some of my favorite character Actors and he's definitely one of them.

[@paulmartinson875]

Deserves got nothin to do with it

[@ToreDL87]

@@paulmartinson875 dang beat me to it

[@dlighted8861]

One of his most believable roles. His rapport with Gene Hackman was excellent.🤗😮🤗

[@Tsamokie]

I really enjoyed his work in the Jesse Stone TV Series. He's a dang good actor.

[@davidrice3337]

He should have known better than to get over on Jesse Stone - The dog stole the show

[@richmarlow5680]

Priceless, it will be a very sad day when Mr. Eastwood is gone. He is irreplaceable.

[@CorePathway]

He’s still alive?

[@17Clovers]

​@@tonym2513 embicile

[@mrdan322]

This guy plays every character from a mafioso to a dork seamlessly. Great actor.

[@anthonyoer4778]

He can appear big and small with his characters too. Tough and meek.

[@charlieross-BRM]

Exactly. Some names known as "character actors" really aren't. They are typecast as a certain kind of character. When I see their name I already have an idea what to expect on screen (simpering, grumpy old unshaven man, a friendly grampa, bean counter, drifter) but Rubinek is plausible as anybody you need.

@@anthonyoer4778 This looks 12 youngers then he is . when he first appered on frasier he was 51. yet he looks 42 . I assumed he was born in 57 or 56 . I was shocked he was was born in 48 . The actor who plays bulldog is eight years younger yet looks ten years older

[@vCLOWNSHOESv]

If any man in Hollywood deserves to be looked at with such reverence it's Clint Eastwood.

[@mrtoothless]

"Reverence". He's just a grownup playing make-believe. Try turning your attention to the doctors and scientists who have been hard-carrying the human race for the last 100 years.

[@asmith7876]

Saul R. is in a fantastic TV series called Warehouse 13, love it! Unforgiven is amazing.

[@PaisleyPatchouli]

Oh man, what a blessing to have been cast and directed by Clint Eastwood. And in such an iconic film.

[@soxfan]

he was great in fraser too

[@dritzzdarkwood4727]

Many years ago as a kid I saw "True Romance", and I freaking loved Saul's character in that movie! Everybody brought their A-game to that movie! Stellar cast!

[@Caeser194]

It's been years since I watched true romance,great idea for tonight

[@tobhomott]

His portrayal of the D-bag movie producer in that one stands out for me too

[@clifftanton8385]

​@@Caeser194Saul rubinek rocks

[@JamesBlevins0]

We park our cars in the same garage.

[@drewp1974]

Some amazing lines in this movie .. “You just shot an unarmed man!” “Shoulda armed himself,, if he’s gonna decorate his store with my friend “

[@chrisjames2593]

" I was lucky in the order but I've always been lucky when it comes to killin folks "

[@crrhoades4]

Deserve's got nothin' to do with it.

[@krismoody7511]

@@crrhoades4 We all have it comin', kid.

[@Howard-z4b]

Like: Well he should have armed himself if he's going to decorate his saloon with my friend. 😮

[@Howard-z4b]

Or: We aIl have it coming kid 😢

[@watchlover8297]

Unforgiven is a brilliant western. Clint is a fantastic director and has been in some outstanding films that I've watched many many times. A real Hollywood legend, a real talent.

[@bernadettekendell1176]

What a clasy man.....humble ,a lover of people and amazing actor....great story teller too

[@freedomforever6718]

One of my all-time favorite movies. I'm so glad I saw it on the big screen.

[@phillm156]

I saw this film in 1995 as a young kid. Probably didn’t understand it enough to appreciate the gritty realism. I have seen it a few more times since. Each time it seems more realistic and intense. A great film that that never looses its dramatic impact.

[@bmarsh820]

Very informative interview that provides insight into Clint Eastwood not only as a movie director but also his quiet and unassuming personality.

[@johnsolo4402]

This was an excellent interview. Actually better than an interview. Truly educational and insightful about the process, the project, and the man, Mr. Eastwood, and your perspective of it all and working with him. Thank you, Mr. Rubinek!

[@spockmcoyissmart961]

Yes. When I watch an interview, I don't want to hear the host much. Some hosts try to be the center of attention, and try to lead the person being interviewed. It was nice to hear mainly Saul.

[@moldyvort6040]

I felt like more of an honest conversation as opposed to an interview.

[@johnsolo4402]

@@moldyvort6040 Yes! Better said.

[@peterhulse1064]

Clint is astonishing. I wish I could be half as chill and in the moment as him.

[@winoodlesnoodles1984]

I've got to give Saul credit as well as Clint for listening. Unforgiven is such a great movie because it deconstructs the traditional western that had been produced by Hollywood. While doing that, it adds in a bit of the dirty and gritty underbelly of the west. The change to W.W.'s character allows the character to be a stand in for the audience and helps bring the audience along. W.W. starts out knowing the romanticized west, which most people were familiar with from movies and TV. The audience had seen enough movies/TV and W.W. had read enough books. This makes the confrontation more impactful. Because while W.W. wets himself, the audience knows that if they step out of a bar into a face full of barrels, they might not just wet themselves, they would likely soil themselves as well. This helps emphasize that things just got real and that ensures that the audience knows this isn't the west we were used to seeing. There is little black and white and far more gray area. Again, hats off to Saul for coming up with the change and hats off to Clint for going along with it.

[@tandemaxle1831]

Excellent and insightful comment.

[@fifthbusiness1678]

The balls of Saul Rubinek telling Clint Eastwood he thinks he should do another take! Loved this bit of reminiscing. Thanks for uploading.

[@thedeathwobblechannel6539]

Saul such a great guy to share this, in normal conversation, it is incredible. Criminally under rated actor.

[@DavidMcdonald-df8tb]

I'm not trying to be contrarian but aren't character actors supposed to be underated?

[@coopaloopmex]

This is the best interview with Clint Eastwood that has ever existed. WOW!

[@MovieMuscle]

Saul is a great guy. I always wanted to meet him, and I got my chance when we ran into each other on the set of Warehouse 13. Then again at the premiere of 'A Fish Story." Which starred Eddie McClintock from Warehouse. First became aware of him as an actor back in 1993, on True Romance. He was great as the producer.

[@bloodyspartan300]

Yes, especially when he realized he was betrayed.

[@bloodyspartan300]

@@Tom-qv2jg I thought he was quite exceptional, when Eddit got stabbed and was dying in that Warehouse 13 Episode, not only a bad guy.

[@joxyjoxyjoxy1]

I don't care how many roles this guy plays, he will always be the collector of unique Items from Star Trek TNG.

[@Rob-z7k]

To me he was the guy who kidnapped Data on TNG!

[@boblevey]

You got it Saul!!! He’s a jazz musician at heart and he lets artists blow their horn! He heard my dad with Bird when he was young. He understands artists!!!

[@judekristo]

Sounds like Saul got Clint in a time of his life before he settled into a curmudgeon who wouldn’t offer anyone a second take unless they literally screwed their lines. Sorry, I don’t think that’s someone who ‘understands artists’ as most actors want another couple takes, regardless of how innately talented they are, and they’re right to want them… and he doesn’t give it to them. One of the few that big in the industry who doesn’t. Says it’s a waste of time. As if one of the most important aspects of making a movie in the first place (shooting it) would be a waste of time to get right. And it is an approach that can work to bring out something good in some performers in some situations, but which overall has not brought out the best in his actors over the years and is probably a big factor in why his flop ratio is as high as it is even while being able to get some of the best actors/ crew in the business.

[@boblevey]

@@judekristo in the jazz world when recording with the greats they often wanted first take.

[@jonathangwynne1917]

​@JK-ku4ok , it isn't up to the actor to want another take. That's the director's call. If the director is happy with the take... that's it. I was on a set once where the star called "Cut!" In the middle of the take. The director was furious - and rightfully so. He called the "star" out. In front of everyone - told him to never do that again. The director said (and I agree) that it isn't the actor's job to decide whether the take is good. The actor's job is to stay in the scene until the director ends the take.

[@DavidMcdonald-df8tb]

​@@judekristoyou make an observant point.

[@thedevilinthecircuit1414]

A wonderful interview of a wonderful actor. Mr. Rubinek's observation of Eastwood being a jazz musician first--and that skill spilling into director duties--is spot on: all truly great band leaders recruit musicians and allow them to *shine as individuals* within the ensemble.

[@edbigtruck]

Unforgiven is one of the greatest Westerns ever with an Epic cast of character and incredibly talented Actors and actresses. Everything about this movie is Epic.

[@bill9540]

Agreed☺️

[@BreDawg714]

Let talented actors, act. What a concept.

[@Adam-hi9dh]

Love the story of david peoples sitting with clint screening the movie of his untouched decade-plus old script and not a word is changed. Legendary

[@eloquentsarcasm]

Warehouse 13 was a great show, and Unforgiven was one of the great Westerns, Saul did an outstanding job.

[@care9939]

Clint is and always will be at the top of the mountain!!!

[@ElliottNest41]

I would like to see more interviews with Saul. Very insightful.

[@frufru0071]

He’s brilliant in Prime Video’s "Hunters", & the "Jesse Stone" films directed by/starring Tom Selleck. The more films I’ve seen starring Saul Rubinek, the more I appreciate his talent. Thanks for sharing this!

[@billsmith3471]

A tremendously underrated actor. He brings so much to even smaller roles.

[@rutgaurxi7314]

What a great interview, to echo everyone else, Saul has been great in everything I've seen him in, from Frazier to Trek to of course Unforgiven and beyond.

[@W00KER]

One of the greatest movies of all time. Funny, I never knew Clint played jazz.

[@KenMac-ui2vb]

Still my favorite western. An incredible movie.

[@This.ability]

Such a great clip. Always nice to have more insight into the making of such an iconic film.

[@Godhelpus803]

Saul gives such an interesting and thoughful interview. And of course he was absolutely magical in that movie.

[@Godhelpus803]

I just love these insights into the personality of Clint Eastwood. He was always one of my favorite actors but he is so much more than that. I once heard an interview with Morgan Freeman (also a very interesting personality). When asked who his favorite director was, he immediately answered unhesitatingly “Clint Eastwood”.

[@ThunderPants13]

This film had four giants of acting from a similar generation in Eastwood, Hackman, Freeman, and Harris. Sometimes collecting that much talent in one place doesn't work, but they each played their parts so well in this one, that it just lifted the entire picture to another level. Saul Rubinek was also extremely good, as he is in all his roles.

[@joecrowaz]

Kelly's Heroes

[@AngryMarine-il6ej]

I've seen him several in films and televised series. He's one of those actors that didn't hit their stride until their later acting years. Definitely underrated and deserving of more recognition.

[@chucklou118]

I don’t think you can describe Eastwood any better!

[@Moriarty22cent]

The first time I saw Saul Rubinek, it was in the ST:TNG episode "He Who Has The Most Toys". He wasn't original actor for the part. David Rappaport was cast. They filmed for two days (maybe) when the unfortunate and tragic news that David had unlived himself, they had to quickly recast the part and Saul was that person. Saul was perfect in that part and I didn't know about David being cast in it until years later. Saul continued to bring to the screen many memorable characters, especially in "Warehouse 13" which became one of my favorite shows, and also "Nero Wolfe" with Timothy Hutton and Maury Chakin (RIP, what an actor!)

[@alexconroy8695]

I've always liked the characters Saul has played over the years in all the different shows/movies His insights are terriffic.

[@astraluna6is9]

Saul Rubinek is also in a most excellent film released in 93’ named ‘True Romance’ Directed by Tony Scott, with the screenplay written by Roger Avery and Quentin Tarantino. Rubinek is equally as good in this one as well

[@GEB-yy3ud]

Love that movie mate. I still recommend it to people. All you have to do is tell them the cast and they are interested.

[@TheRubberStudiosASMR]

Agreed, he was the icing on the cake

[@RotundRager]

This guy is an amazing storyteller. He makes sure to give us context relevant to the point he's making, and then keeps a solid throughline on that point to get us, the listener, where we need to be without a bunch of extraneous fluff. It makes for a very entertaining listen.

[@chrysopylaedesign]

Saul is a great actor. He was a Guest Star in a Star Trek TNG episode that he was great in. I might be wrong but it might have been right before Unforgiven; if not than shortly after.

[@jimyoung9262]

That was a great episode too

[@dennismccann305]

When I see Saul is in a film I will watch that film or series. I just will. I appreciate you Saul.

[@rccc5806]

Amazing interview of a great actor speaking so highly of another great actor and director and a good human being.

[@ss5ringo]

Thanks for the random suggestion KZbin. This was a fantastic story about one of my favorite films.

[@Michael-uc7gr]

That's a wonderfully insightful story about Eastwood. They made arguably the greatest western ever.

[@astraluna6is9]

Excellent insight. And Mr Rubinek is a vital character in this story. A film well done by all involved, and most grateful for the 3rd take suggestion. One of my most prized pieces of theater in my collection as well.

[@frufru0071]

Astute observation. I’d only be repeating you with my own comment. I saw it on the big screen and still have the (then newly released DVD), & watch it…biannually? Cheers!

[@stevenhaff3332]

That was such a wonderful interview. Behind the scene stories broaden and heighten my appreciation for a film. The Unforgiven was such a quality film.

[@hooplajones8821]

What a good interview. Thanks for sharing the story Saul.

[@angelborregocubero2241]

Some of the best insights. Thank you Saul.

[@JD-ev1uj]

Saul did a marvelous job. He was very impressive in his skills as an actor.

[@ddatch54]

8 years and nobody has commented? That was a real interesting insight into Clint's direction.

[@odyshopody9387]

Love this Western, came out the same time my other favorite Western came out, Tombstone. Great performances all around, especially Saul Rubinek's performance! It kind of reminded me of us, how a modern person would react if we were suddenly thrown into the Wild West. Thanks for posting this interview.

[@MacJaxonManOfAction]

Absolutely fantastic actor, I love Saul!

[@scudger99]

Fascinating insight into my favourite Western ! Saul was also excellent in Warehouse 13.

[@kirktierney]

A remarkable interview. Rubinek rocks this one.

[@tomlavelle8340]

Absolutely the best Western ever made.

[@williamreaves3780]

I believe Saul put together a very good character for this film. #1 His character was not like any other character, and he was authentic. #2 The thing that caught my eye was the fact that he WAS nervous, timid, and scared, but trying the best he could to hide it. He was seeing and experiencing things that he almost couldn't believe, and of course he wanted to be on the side that was winning because he wanted to STAY ALIVE. His reactions were brilliant too. I could sense him saying to himself, "Wait a minute here, I'm just a writer. I'm not a gun slinging COWBOY! Somebody, please rescue me! I caught Saul in another film, and he was JUST the OPPOSITE. Excellent work, POT-NER.

[@salvadormonella8953]

Those are the words I live by: figure out what is expected of you, and then do more than that. People LOVE that. Everybody's expecting to be let down. When you meet & exceed expectations, people never forget you.

[@bobbys4327]

True! My wife hired a gut to help with various yardwork and stuff. He would work for us for 2 days a week as he had other customers. Well, after about the 5th time he worked I told my wife lets give him a raise. He was doing just that; more than expected! He has been working for us for a while now and that is just how he is, tremendous work ethic.

[@salvadormonella8953]

@@bobbys4327 Very thoughtful and considerate of you and your wife. I like to over-deliver for customers because it sets me apart, and I like to see how pleased they get when their expectations are exceeded. My customers work in a very stressful environment where smiles are few & far between. My brightening their day brightens mine. The net effect is they become addicted to me and don't want to work with anyone else. It is quite flattering. I'm not the best in the world, I just get on the customers page first, and then give them extra second. Really that's just about all that's needed to be a success. Just do a little more than required.

[@macpdm]

As a brit I would say that Clint amongst others who are few and far between. Is an American national treasure.

[@dallassukerkin6878]

I know that he makes his living telling stories but Saul is a really good story teller :)

[@bt4486]

Saul Rubinek is himself a great storyteller. Great interview.

[@fess_ter_geek]

Listening to him talk about Clint as director, reminds me of the saying, "If you have to tell people that you are in charge, then you are not."

[@diamonddave16]

Love background info like this

[@MosesCampos-pr6ef]

Straight classic. This film will definitely stand the test of time.

[@earlleeruhf3130]

Letting the actors imagine their own take on their characters makes sense when they are Richard Harris, Morgan Freeman, Gene Hackman and Saul Rubinek. These four are well expereanced professional actors.

[@sandman93449dm]

I have always enjoyed Saul's work..I'm 75 my wife when she was alive was a casting directory in Hollywood..I know something about the movies and the process..although I was a musician and a surfer almost all my friends were writers, producers and directors and actors. Many of them surfed with me in the Cove where we lived..I get it. Saul is a very good actor.

[@azguitar]

Fascinating recollection of Clint Eastwood.

[@Sonomacats]

Unforgiven was such an incredible movie. I was so thrilled when it won the Oscar. More than deserved. Right up there with Once Upon a Time in the West.

[@hartspot009]

I had the bucket list -dream come true opportunity to meet Clint in a small venue film festival in Paso Robles CA in 2008. I can say without reserve that he was the most gracious, friendly, down to earth celebrity to each and every attendee. He spent almost 2 hrs signing autographs, taking pics, chatting. Class act all the way, and yes, a quiet presence.

[@zapfanzapfan]

Amazing movie, very slow start but wow, what a crescendo at the end.

[@PatrickOCnMD]

What a great story. And is just the truth which is even better.

[@Kevin-wr9um]

Eastwood likes to work with the same crew as often as possible. You develop a relationship and things can move quickly. That's why he was ahead of schedule and under budget.

[@patrickdruhan6143]

Rubinek's scenes were some of the best in the movie and what made those scenes was Eastwood cutting to Rubinek's reactions. If you ever watch the movie again, look for it.

[@henryw5762]

What a great interview with a thoughtful character actor! Saul has been in so many great movies he is a pleasure to watch. I am alway amused at different actors that have worked with Eastwood doing impressions of him! The same with actors who worked with Nickerson! Two of the greatest actors of our times!

[@myflatlineconstruct]

What a great interview! My favorite western. Personally, loved him in True Romance , first time seeing him. His interaction with Slater was hilarious.

[@cerethpainting6606]

He played a great villain in Star Trek the next generation.Truly vile. He’s awesome!!

[@lloydbrown2713]

I will watch this movie every time it's on. Thanks for the insight. I've always been fascinated by Eastwood and how he always directs himself. His hands-off approach that Rubinek discusses here undoubtedly helps facilitate that.

[@lawrencegoldworm]

Wonderful behind the scenes stories. I could listen all day to show people kibitzing about their profession. Thank you JRP!

[@unclej7842]

He is convincing in every role he plays. You're right, underrated and under appreciated.

[@r.williamcomm7693]

Saul has played some great parts. Clint Eastwood is a national treasure.

[@rocketburnz2297]

This was one of the best interviews about that movie I have seen since it came out.

[@WhiskeySam1]

That advice about doing more than they ask for is brilliant life advice. That approach landed me in the first job I ever got in a great career. Saul Rubinek was great in True Romance and the Family Man.

[@2_pencil]

I’m so happy to see all these comments about what a terrific actor this man is.

[@dferraro4]

What a wonderful interview with a tremendously underrated actor.

[@johnblair3234]

These types of interviews are why I watch KZbin

[@donsmore]

Unforgiven is a great movie with a great cast.

[@d8nh20s]

What a great interview and testament to the talent and character of Clint Eastwood. Thank you for posting this!

[@davemarr7743]

Saul is great, first time I saw him was Ticket To Heaven.. Awesome performance..

[@holtenfield]

8 years and not a single comment🤔 Thank you for sharing. I enjoy the Eastwood stories.

[@charlieross-BRM]

I have watched this several years ago but it's still a gem of disclosure told so well. It mirrors what other actors have said about their first time on a Clint Eastwood set. Saul Rubinek typifies the great character actors. He can play any kind of character in any kind of production without being a clown about it.