'Green Book' Q&A | Mahershala Ali, Viggo Mortensen & Peter Farrelly

Green Book director Peter Farrelly, stars Mahershala Ali and Viggo Mortensen, writers/producers Nick Vallelonga and Brian Hayes Currie, composer Kris Bowers, and producers Charles B. Wessler and Jim Burke discussed their film at a Film Society of Lincoln Center Patron Evening.
Academy Award ® nominee Viggo Mortensen (Eastern Promises, The Lord of the Rings trilogy) and Academy Award® winner Mahershala Ali (Moonlight, Hidden Figures) star in Participant and DreamWorks Pictures’ Green Book. Peter Farrelly (There’s Something About Mary, Fever Pitch) directs the warmhearted and surprisingly comic road-trip adventure based on a true friendship that transcended race, class, and the 1962 Mason-Dixon line.
When Tony Lip (Mortensen), an Italian-American bouncer with a seventh-grade education, is hired to drive Dr. Don Shirley (Ali), a world-class African-American jazz pianist on a concert tour from Manhattan to the Deep South, they must rely on the “Negro Motorist Green Book” to guide them to the few establishments that were then safe for Blacks. Confronted with racism and danger, as well as unexpected humanity and humor, they are forced to set aside differences in order to survive and thrive on the journey of a lifetime.
The Film Society of Lincoln Center is devoted to supporting the art and elevating the craft of cinema. The only branch of the world-renowned arts complex Lincoln Center to shine a light on the everlasting yet evolving importance of the moving image, this nonprofit organization was founded in 1969 to celebrate American and international film. Via year-round programming and discussions; its annual New York Film Festival; and its publications, including Film Comment, the U.S.’s premier magazine about films and film culture, the Film Society endeavors to make the discussion and appreciation of cinema accessible to a broader audience, as well as to ensure that it will remain an essential art form for years to come.
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[@nadiazayman779]

Viggo's performance deserves Oscar. He is long overdue.

[@PretentiousStuff]

he has no chance

[@dianaaziz7281]

@Diego Pisfil Did we see the same film?

[@partslig123]

@@PretentiousStuff Why,because he's mixed? Viggo's made Ali look good in the movie and you know it.

[@ruly8153]

@Michael Hinton You’re sad.

[@zinarhone7642]

When I was a little girl in the late 60's my dad used to drive from Philly to Portsmouth, VA using the Green Book route. My grandmother would fry chicken which was kept in a foil lined shoe box along with slices of white bread and cooler of Nehi sodas. We would eat them because there still were places we couldn't stop. Dad was in the military and used to traveling roads that were not always friendly to men who looked like him. When I realized what had taken place in the years just before I became the first generation to attend an integrated school, I understand my parents apprehension. Today I live in a small town only a few miles south of the city of Atlanta. I'm still well aware that there still exists "Sundown towns" you're sure to pass through before nightfall. This was a wonderful story and took me back. Thanks to every person involved with bringing it to the awareness of a very pivotal time in this nation's history.

[@hm2011100]

Wow thanks for sharing - it’s beautiful to hear the authenticity of aspects of the story confirmed when it’s received so much attack 💓

[@justthink5854]

@@hm2011100 they always say the Jim Crow south. no it was the DEMOCRAT SOUTH. and our white family on our many late 50's early 60's road trips took country ham and biscuits and fried chicken on board as well as home baked cookies all in foil lined shoe boxes.

[@justthink5854]

and there's many bad black areas as well in these small towns isn't there.

[@camillac.s.279]

Wow !! Lovely anecdote ❤️🙏🏻. I can't believe exists such form of racism still now 💔

[@gregkokjian1659]

A masterpiece, loved this movie. Both Mahershala Ali and Viggo Mortensen deserve Oscars!

[@partslig123]

@Diego Pisfil He was the best actor in the entire movie and your ass knows it.

[@ruly8153]

@Michael Hinton Again? Loser.

[@iwd1856]

Green book has to shown in schools and high schools, all over the world. We can learn a lot from this story

[@chazlenz1]

I saw it yesterday and we really did enjoy it. I think everyone should see this film !

[@ruly8153]

@Michael Hinton You’re the biggest loser in the world if you 1) can’t come up with a reason to dislike somthing yourself and have to send a link of someone else’s analysis 2) if you go to a comment section for a film you so dislike just do leave this link. And 3) can’t stand that anyone might love this film. You sir are a loser.

[@flylooper]

Saw the movie yesterday. Just a wonderfully poignant story of friendship overcoming prejudice.

[@donnanancekivell9430]

This movie was fantastic....first movie that I’ve been to in a long time that the audience clapped and cheered when it was over.......Its a must see

[@natevaG85]

I am always the only one at the cinema clapping at the end of a good film. What's going on with people these days?! Lol (and usually laughed at but I don't care, it makes me clap louder haha). And you are so right, I just watched it last night, it is definitely a must see!

[@donnanancekivell9430]

As is didn’t see First Man I cant compare........I loved Green Book

[@lorrainelogerfo9165]

I left the movie seeing the world differently, feeling that the world was more beautiful. Thank you.

[@xzemmyx]

Its 2024, this movie is already a classic. Well done to all invovled. I hope more and more people keep watching this, and come away from the movie feeling hopeful. And choose to make those positive changes in their lives.

[@dancarter482]

Watched it last night - knew _nothing_ about it going in. Beautiful piece of film making, yeah!

[@EatWell23QWB]

Wow, this was one of the best film interviews I’ve ever saw. The panel which includes the actors, movie director, music director, producers, and script writer are all intelligent, insightful, reflective, and thoughtful. They all have a genuine respect for each other’s gifts and talents. They all also embody the connectedness and love that our society so desperately needs. With a phenomenal group like this, it’s no wonder that the movie Green Book is so AWESOME! Congratulations to you all!

[@lauracollins4195]

LaNell Gill - Beautiful. :)

[@iwd1856]

Viggo is so humble. Looking at Mr Vallelonga speaking with so much attention. He's an amazing actor.

[@johnnywen8758]

It's a beautiful and warm movie,I love the chemical between Viggo and Mahershala,they are all great actors.It's very fortunate that we can see Green Book in cinema as Chinese audience.

[@jofitzgerald8614]

Absolutely fantastic performances, wonderful story. Best movie for a very long time.

[@kellielaine5848]

Our new favorite - can't get enough. Keep telling the stories, Hollywood - we're loving it.

[@howardmassel1647]

Outstanding movie! Loved the chemistry between Ali and Viggo. Loved the story. FIVE STARS!

[@Africa-ky1bg]

This is such an important & exquisite movie ~ I wish this conversation could have been 3x's as long ! It is a movie - not just about THEIR journey - but of the journey of humanity. The scene ~ I'm NOT black enought - I'm NOT white enough ( I'm NOT man enough ) than tell me what I am... just BROKE my heart.

[@victoriadyer7627]

Beautiful story,acting,movie!!! Oscar for all categories!!! I enjoyed it so much and will be watching this movie again 👋

[@kingjo_8769]

Beautiful movie , just beautiful , I have been listening to his album all night very beautiful

[@showmuchlove]

The awareness that it hasn’t changed makes the unaware open to understanding Why conversation and respect is WHY it matters art has always bridged that understanding of what is being said is true help us all. Thank you for showing us this piece of Love “Green Book” is about getting to LOVE!

[@MrCrossdatracks]

Both are great actors.

[@gloriagarguena1802]

Great movie, IT'S very real LIFE STORY. Great actors, scenery, music.. BRAVO!

[@carolbenson6524]

Yes....the music was so awesome!

[@johnrigs6540]

Absolutely fantastic movie. Sometimes the Oscars go to films that are very good at the moment but that you sort of forget pretty quickly and then wonder why they won Best Picture in the first place. This time I think they got it right-and I also think we'll remember this one for awhile...

[@rmp2911]

Learned so much from this movie, great acting, beautiful story and incredible music. Through political incorrectness you see humanity and empathy prevail. Oscar nominations will come....

[@jjs490]

Terribly interesting true story.. Mahershala and Viggo were so believable. I've seen it twice, And ill watch it again and again I'm sure. But to be honest the reason I came here was Viggo hit a grand slam this guy is unbelievable actor don't know why I haven't seen him more I remember him in Carlito's Way, and Another Love Story movie in 99 which I can't recall right now. He might be one of the best actors I've ever seen. Completely believable as an Italian-American bouncer.

[@dannusmk1578]

Exceptional!!!! OSCAR WORTHY FOR BOTH ACTORS. Will be seeing it 2 more times with family and friends @ the box office.

[@user-qt8lk9um7w]

Masterpiece acting of both actors deserving more than Oscar

[@burnellbrowne4303]

This was the best Movie in 25 years I've seen. Viggo is my favorite ACTOR and Mahershala is a new Actor and a favorite as well. These are Two of the best ACTORS in this business. Both of them should have won their OSCAR'S.

[@LynJegher]

I never thought I would like it, but then I was totally consumed by the Story The Soundtrack, everythin IS totally awesome! Congrats The world needs such a cultural movie!

[@baymalek2446]

Mr. Ali...Wow.. You are amazing. Luvd the movie

[@redpat8832]

Wonderful flick!

[@ds9quark]

I saw it tonight! Yes, I will see it again and I will own the DVD when it comes out! Anther one for the library.

[@Ray3645]

I saw it for the sixth time last night. I'm sick aren't I?

[@ds9quark]

@@Ray3645 No mate. You are not. Its bloody great.

[@kdeloris2225]

I love viggo and mahershala❤❤❤

[@esthersmith9182]

I loved this movie, well acted and I can watch it again. It kept my attention.😍

[@sylviajaramillo8212]

Loved the movie, excellent ‼️

[@kayecurren3342]

Wonderful discussion. To the point. No wasted words. Can't wait to see the movie.

[@MsSwap2009]

The great personalities who made movie with hope of progress.

[@steved1593]

Viggo's right - will definitely watch this movie again some time.

[@shintakojiro5239]

Great movie..love viggo 😍😍

[@angelamarcos5528]

We saw it yesterday and loved it. I must say that Peter Farrelly achieved his goal: we went out with hope. Congratulations to all involved. Viggo and Mahersala are at their best, magisterial!

[@sandymay2212]

I Loved this film.

[@lisaleone2296]

Viggo is a class act

[@tripleooo9639]

BEAUTIFUL MOVIE .

[@EliasJireis]

MY KING - PERIOD.

[@michaelzeisler2257]

Tremendous movie I watched it at least five times

[@dovilecerniauskaite5626]

I love so much this movie that i have almost learnt by memory dialogs.Nice performance and charisma of Viggo and Mahershala.Thanks!

[@joshjames253]

I agree with Viggo at around 26:00 or so. I've already watched it twice. Thoroughly enjoyed it the second time.

[@nicolab4568]

Oscars please! Terrific movie. No opening credits.. straight in and we were engaged throughout. Chemistry between the two male leads was great, dialogue too... entertaining, educational - damn fine in every respect. Thank you.

[@AnthonyCastelli]

i love this movie ...thanks

[@phallystorm]

I saw it again last night. Very good Movie. Needs more Sebastian Maniscalco

[@fdavyes]

Congratulations to all the people involved in this great project. You guys overdelivered. I agree 100% with Viggo When he says this movie might turn into a classic. I’ll definitely do my part and show this classic-to-be to my descendants. Finally, amongst other great quotes, my favourite one was: “The world is full of lonely people afraid to make the first move.” Life changing shit right here. Cheers!

[@hm2011100]

Agreed! That line resonated too & I’ll keep it in mind if I ever feel afraid to take risks

[@fdavyes]

@@hm2011100 the world is yours! Happy New Year!

[@nicolawilcox9771]

this film is amazing

[@kennethbredow3098]

First time i heard winter storm was in the story i play it often.

[@raphaelseeck5016]

Great Movie, Great Acting, Loved It!

[@nuvamusic]

Great job on the movie. Definitely, a must-see.

[@Nativa641]

¡¡¡Que Tremenda película, Que tremenda actuación de Mahershala, Viggo, Esposa bella de Viggo en la película. Es una de las cintas que cada vez que la encuentro la veo, no me cansa, creo que me aprendí de memoria los diálogos de cada escena, jajajaja. Saludos.

[@bowerbird7463]

I saw the he story as a revelation of a fantastic musical genius, genius in general, who was self taught on many subjects, whose life was difficult & almost totally ignored. Unbelievable. As the movies composer said, he hadn’t heard about Doc Shirley, even within the black American community….

[@rossdiamondthief6627]

So glad this film won best picture

[@bestman4life]

I truly enjoyed the movie and the great performances from the lead actors. But most importantly the movie just made you feel good. As people we can overcome what separates us.

[@tulayamalavenapi4028]

Hey you are so right. Human life is meant for that deep understanding and contemplation. Animals will never be able to make a film, play a Steinway, compose a poem, or read and write. It is a very valuable window of opportunity, and rare as well. Thank you very much. 😊

[@cardion411]

Watched this today. Beautiful film.

[@lorrainedensen831]

VIGGO is the BEST....MOVIE is Wonderful

[@KING-gp5kz]

@Bryce Thibodeaux I guess you didn't even watch the movie if you think that's what it was.

[@KING-gp5kz]

Bryce Thibodeaux ...and the doctor was portrayed as an uptight man with identity issues. There are real people like this in the world and it’s believable. Everyone has their flaws but Viggo was not shown as evil or anything, a white man saying racist remarks doesn’t necessarily make them evil. Viggo was portrayed as a good guy who helped an emotionally troubled man how to have fun, that speaks volumes on his character.

[@makuojinanwa]

@Bryce Thibodeaux @KING ᴶᶜ “The hate that begins with Jews never ends with Jews.” And vice-versa.

[@godschild2432]

Good stuff

[@fc872e1]

Incredible performances by superlative actors, an inspiring film. If you have not watched it, please do, you may feel differently about life afterwards

[@mantarayasurf]

Great movie!

[@mujkocka]

It’s so nice the basic part of the story is true. I have been disappointed when parts of the spotlight movie was fictional. The PR guy and the bit at the Boston college. But this was nice

[@StarlightWorkshop0z]

Ive enjoyed Viggo's work for about 30yrs. Check out an early movie he did. INDIAN RUNNER. Based on a Springsteen song.

[@Bregonet]

Starts out a little slow with all the introductions, but I really enjoyed the comments, especially from Nick Vallelonga, Peter Farrelly, Kris Bowers, and of course Viggo Mortensen and Mahershala Ali.

[@elenaway3903]

I loved this movie

[@Vinsanity_93]

Just saw this, it was just perfect

[@kittyneung2755]

I love this movie

[@D.AGE.]

Just here for that word.... That kneeeeee worrrddd... Lol

[@jodeesayshi]

I saw this movie yesterday it’s so good

[@mrsteel9026]

It really surprises me how few Americans know about The Green Book, we were taught about it in school in Ireland in the 90's, I just assumed it was a ubiquitous thing in the states.

[@kpatino6197]

Great actors, great movie. It made me angry and sad but also made me laugh. Sadly I don't feel things have changed much in good old USA

[@mrronx]

Applause to Nick for having the Site

[@josephvirgilio4984]

hopeful? I wanted to cry as I watched and reckoned it with a world that remains mired in hatred :'-(

[@randyupchurch1899]

...Perfect-Chemistry!!!..."Oscar's" for that-alone!!!...

[@tykeee6]

I loved the movie.

[@michaelchristophergutierre7244]

When Peter said the guy is racist, it kinda bothered me being Italian American because Blacks and Italian had a unique dynamic and were very close in many ways even though there was a racist divide. My great gandfather was a taylor in Chicago in poor Italian neighborhood that bordered a poor black neighborhood and many of his customers were African American. The dynamics is interesting, yes there was racism back then but this would have been a very different movie if "Tony" would have been a white from the deep south instead of a New York Italian. Great Movie!

[@dafdriver9552]

I smell some Oscars here

[@BeverleyPriceJewellery]

Compulsory watching even in South Africa. Seamless,

[@tulayamalavenapi4028]

Viggo...(@about 24:00) .. the proposal you talk about, that we have to work on transposing our consciousness, from race, birth, age, nationality, creed or other misunderstood identifications based on the body (or skin color) is the cogent bottom line. It comes more naturally to feel that "I am my body", "that's my distinction", " that's who I am", "I come from this family, this set of parents, this nation", and so on, is only the illusion of our natural inherent constitutional position. I learned that we all think of the reflection as being the original. But it isn't. A reflection can't act without a brain behind it. A reflection is faulty. Thanks for pointing that out, because knowing the position of the temporary body, (which will end up as ashes, or eventually dust) as just the car that carries the soul can liberate our mind. What is the piece or part that makes a body instantly an unattractive, ghastly lump of dead flesh when it vacates the flesh at death? Nobody can conceive of the atomic soul, yet it is the most powerful energy without which we are useless. Is that spark of soul, the same in all beings alive? Certainly, as even animals are living, moving and breathing because there is the presence of that soul created by God or Krishna unilaterally in all parts of His creation. Let's have this conversation internally and when we "get it", then act upon it, as Dr Shirley & Tony did in their lifelong friendship. That's a huge formula for peace (AND LOVE for our divine Creator). In other words a Godless mind set leads to discrimination. Oh my Lord, this film is such a treasure.

[@robertmortensen]

23:30 well said.

[@osgebl]

Viggo ❤️ Macri=GATO

[@williamwilson9283]

❤

[@amarket3375]

Viggo eating KFC makes me hungry and craving for KFC. Wonder how it tasted back in the day. His acting was so natural.

[@mrronx]

Tonylip One Word

[@SABaruj]

I entered just for viggo

[@melliemel32]

Can't wait to see this film. I'm supposed to go next week! ~~Jesus Christ is LORD~~

[@Gospel1984]

I watched it yesterday. I cried, laughed and thought a lot. This is really a classic that would last forever.

[@whogivesashirtdotca]

Man, the interviewer needs to tighten up his questioning.

[@maherjaloudi7560]

Am I the only one who’s looking at Mahershala Ali talking and thought.. is he still playing dr. Sherly.

[@iordanmihail3063]

In my thing its the first rules in this world its to be HUMAN.....and thing like a human then came the rules and rest about to put the first in your world to be...a law...be HUMAN thx!to all be healt in your mind

[@paulkim9828]

cmon carlito!!

[@tulayamalavenapi4028]

😊

[@phenixcrow]

As long as you think you're better than... We,.. shall not mark out the same future.

[@balleronabudget2371]

That composer kid's a fuckin genius

[@runningbrook9093]

Is it me or did anybody else want some chicken after seeing this preview.

[@MeimeiLovesmusic]

runningbrook no ... this film brings out the empathy in us to treat others better and that includes the connection to treat animals better and not eating them.

[@graciabaldomeroalaminos2114]

I'm a vegetarian but yes, I wanted fried chicken :)

[@patcurrie9888]

Thumbs down are from Roma Zealots. Justifiable Best Pic. Way to go guys!

[@ClassG7]

at what time does he drop it?

[@serketsmovies3204]

Either this an edited version or it happened at another event. I've found some information about a screening at ArcLight Cinemas Hollywood that was sponsored by Film Independent and included a conversation with Peter Farrelly, Mahershala Ali, and Viggo Mortensen. ‘I’m gonna go off on a tangent here, but it’s important, and I don’t like saying the word, but, for instance, people don’t say’ - and then he said the N-word.

[@Jay45430]

I saw the film today. It is a great film!

[@MeimeiLovesmusic]

Moderator’s question is too long! Lol He almost answering his own questions with all the suggestions and directions on what the answer could include.

[@nikelegend77]

according to internet knowledge, the tour was roughly a year n some change with a xmas break so thats pretty lame that the director says 2 months in a car.

[@martinefrancesmctiernan7624]

It was for the purpose of the movie. No movie is completely exact and movies have time constraints.