Harrison Ford has shared why he loves making Westerns, praising the genre’s traditional filmmaking approach. At the Los Angeles premiere of 1923 season 2, Ford spoke about his love for the genre that launched his career nearly six decades ago, when he debuted as an actor in the 1967 Western A Time for Killing. Ford now stars as Jacob Dutton in 1923, a prequel in the Yellowstone timeline that follows the struggles of the Dutton family in the early 20th century. The highly anticipated second season of 1923 is set to premiere on February 23 on Paramount+.
Speaking with The Hollywood Reporter, Ford expressed his appreciation for Westerns, emphasizing the genre’s use of practical effects and natural landscapes rather than solely relying on heavy CGI. The actor explained how the style of storytelling resonated with him, saying “It’s really essential, old-time storytelling and I love working with this kind of material.” Read his full comment below:
I love the viscerality of it, I love the physical nature of the storytelling, I love being in natural circumstances. It’s a kind of old-fashioned movie-making mostly, no CGI or very little CGI — a little something to sweeten the location. But it’s really essential, old-time storytelling and I love working with this kind of material.
What This Means For 1923 And Ford’s Career
Westerns Have A Timeless Appeal
With 1923 continuing Yellowstone‘s legacy, Ford’s comments reaffirm why Westerns remain relevant despite the industry’s increasing reliance on CGI. Unlike major franchises filled with digital enhancements, 1923 is able to capture the ruggedness and reality of the American frontier, utilizing real breathtaking landscapes and traditional cinematography that immerse the audience into its narrative, making 1923 season 2 one of the most anticipated shows to come out this year. Ford’s love for Westerns is also a reflection of the genre’s lasting appeal to the public, whether as an actor or an audience member.
While Hollywood continues to see an influx of CGI-heavy movies and series, 1923 proves that there is still a demand for classic, practical storytelling. Taylor Sheridan’s Yellowstone reinvigorated the genre, drawing in both longtime fans of the genre and newcomers who value the Western’s authenticity. The actor’s pᴀssion for the genre could be one of the reasons Ford joined the cast of 1923, as it marked his first major starring role in a TV series since he primarily focused on his film career. Ford’s involvement in 1923 adds prestige and is one of the most celebrated parts of the series.
Our Take On Ford’s Pᴀssion For Westerns
The Public Yearns For Practical Effects
Harrison Ford’s enthusiasm for Westerns is a testament to the genre’s timelessness. His involvement in the show demonstrates a deep respect for projects that prioritize authenticity over heavy visual effects, showing that Ford is coming back to his acting roots as he steps back into the genre that introduced him to the world. The actor’s perspective also speaks to Hollywood’s current landscape, as practical effects and filmmaking techniques are becoming increasingly rare in mainstream media as CGI and AI slowly take the reins.
Even in an era riddled with CGI-heavy productions, there is still a place for raw, practical filmmaking.
As 1923 prepares for the release of season 2, Ford’s pᴀssion and commitment to traditional storytelling are likely to resonate with audiences. Even in an era riddled with CGI-heavy productions, there is still a place for raw, practical filmmaking. These techniques are still able to immerse the audience by relying on high-quality performances, scripts, and practical effects.
Source: The Hollywood Reporter
