Anthony Hopkins' memoir "We Did OK, Kid" is a candid and insightful look at a legendary career marked by both triumph and turmoil. The author himself describes his early days as a bewildered and lonely child from Port Talbot, son of a humble baker who harbored a secret streak of wistful romanticism. As a young boy, Hopkins found solace in poetry, particularly John Masefield's "The West Wind," which ignited his passion for performance.
With determination and hard work, Hopkins left school a no-hope and pursued acting, eventually landing a role with Laurence Olivier at the Old Vic within 10 years. The success that followed was meteoric, with notable performances in films like "The Elephant Man" and "The Remains of the Day," for which he won an Oscar.
However, this memoir also delves into Hopkins' personal struggles, including his tumultuous relationship with his father and a history of hot-tempered outbursts. His decision to quit the National Theatre company in a fit of pique is a notable example of this volatility, as well as his struggle with addiction, which he eventually overcame.
One striking aspect of Hopkins' personality that emerges from this memoir is his mercurial nature. On one hand, he displays a tough, down-to-earth professionalism on set, knowing every crew member's name and having exacting standards for himself. On the other hand, he admits to confronting obnoxious directors with a fierce intensity that borders on belligerence.
In recent years, Hopkins has continued to defy expectations, taking on roles in films like "The Father" and winning another Oscar. His memoir serves as a testament to his enduring talent and resilience, even if it occasionally reveals the complexities of a man whose temperament can be both captivating and unsettling.
Ultimately, Hopkins' conclusion – an appendix comprising his favorite poems – feels like a celebration of the transcendent power of art to uplift and transform us. While some may view this indulgent decision as self-indulgence, it is hard not to be charmed by the discipline and dedication that underlies his success.
With determination and hard work, Hopkins left school a no-hope and pursued acting, eventually landing a role with Laurence Olivier at the Old Vic within 10 years. The success that followed was meteoric, with notable performances in films like "The Elephant Man" and "The Remains of the Day," for which he won an Oscar.
However, this memoir also delves into Hopkins' personal struggles, including his tumultuous relationship with his father and a history of hot-tempered outbursts. His decision to quit the National Theatre company in a fit of pique is a notable example of this volatility, as well as his struggle with addiction, which he eventually overcame.
One striking aspect of Hopkins' personality that emerges from this memoir is his mercurial nature. On one hand, he displays a tough, down-to-earth professionalism on set, knowing every crew member's name and having exacting standards for himself. On the other hand, he admits to confronting obnoxious directors with a fierce intensity that borders on belligerence.
In recent years, Hopkins has continued to defy expectations, taking on roles in films like "The Father" and winning another Oscar. His memoir serves as a testament to his enduring talent and resilience, even if it occasionally reveals the complexities of a man whose temperament can be both captivating and unsettling.
Ultimately, Hopkins' conclusion – an appendix comprising his favorite poems – feels like a celebration of the transcendent power of art to uplift and transform us. While some may view this indulgent decision as self-indulgence, it is hard not to be charmed by the discipline and dedication that underlies his success.
Hopkins' story is wild 
, but can't help feeling like there's more to him than what's on page 
. Like, he's got this tough exterior going on, but inside, it's all complex emotions and demons 
. I love how he owns his struggles, though 
. And that last appendix? A total trip 
. Favorite poems, man... it's like he's sharing a part of himself with us 
. Makes me appreciate art even more 
. The part about his favorite poems at the end feels like a beautiful message of hope & transformation. Let's give this man credit for being honest & vulnerable – we could all learn from that 
.
We don't need the details, dude. And can we talk about how he quit the National Theatre company in a huff? 
Talk about drama.
. Like, the way he's taken on roles in films like "The Father" and still managed to win another Oscar? 
That's some serious talent right there.
.
. i love how he talks about finding solace in poetry too - it's amazing how art can be a source of comfort and strength 
. It's like, you can feel the passion and discipline behind every word. Plus, who wouldn't want to be a part of the world he's created? 
And can we talk about how much dedication it takes to be able to switch between playing all those iconic roles? The man is literally a chameleon! 
But what really gets me is how honest he is about his struggles with addiction - like, it's not always easy to talk about that stuff, but he does it in a way that feels both vulnerable and empowering. 
Anyway, I'm definitely gonna have to read this memoir now... all the juicy behind-the-scenes gossip! 
. And the way he talks about his dad... I feel bad for him, you know? The man had some serious demons to deal with, but it sounds like it fueled some of his most incredible performances.
. Like, who else can just walk onto a set and demand perfection from everyone around them? And then there's the parts where he's just... well, let's say 'passionate' about things 
. You get why his directors might've been intimidated by him.
. I mean, it's like, I'm right there with him on that train of thought. It's all pretty inspiring stuff, even if it can be a little hard to stomach at times 
. Anyway, I'm totally adding his memoir to my reading list – can't wait to dive in!
! Hopkins' story is so relatable, you feel me? The guy went from bein' a broke kid with no prospects to takin' home Oscars