The drama Water for Elephants, based on the acclaimed best-selling novel of the same name and opening in theaters on April 22nd, tells the story of a veterinary student, named Jacob Jankowski (Robert Pattinson), whose entire life changes when his parents die in an accident and he ends up jumping a random train that happens to belong to the Benzini Brothers Most Spectacular Show on Earth. Once he is discovered, he is put to work with the animals, where he meets the circus’ shining star, Marlena (Reese Witherspoon), and her charismatic husband August (Christoph Waltz), the often violent and abusive owner. This magical world serves as the backdrop for an epic tale of forbidden love, between two individuals hoping for a second chance at happiness.
At the film’s press day, actor Robert Pattinson talked about the impression the novel made on him, his affinity for the time period of the 1930s, working alongside an elephant as a co-star, and how he personally identified with his character’s journey. Check out what he had to say after the jump:
Question: What was the impression you got from reading the book that made you want to do a film adaptation?
ROBERT PATTINSON: I think I’ve just always had a bit of an affinity for that era. I always wanted to do a movie around that time. And, I think it was just very solid, how she (author Sara Gruen) created the world there. I just wanted to be a part of it.
Rob says he’s always had an affinity for that era. #WfE
Rob says he decided to do the movie after seeing Tai “sit” on command when he met her. #WfE
Rob says strategically placed mints got the elephant to like him.#WfE
Reporter asked about Rob/Reese’s height dif and how it affected the scenes. Reese: “easy, they put you on a box.” #WfE
Rob says his “heavy head” makes it easy to lean down to kiss a shorter woman. #WfE
Rob liked the “wildness” of the time period. #WfE
Rob realized he really wanted to be an actor after he’d already done 3 movies.
#WfE Reporter asked Rob how all the ‘movie stuff’ (lights, cell phones) affected shooting a period piece… Rob said all the props and fellow actors helped- everything was authentic for the era, including the ropes & the jeans.
#WfE Reese really liked how the story followed the recollections of Rob’s character.
Thinking of Rob is not affiliated with Robert Pattinson or his management in any way.
There is no copyright infringement intended on this blog. If you are the original owner of any media used and would like it removed, we will be happy to do so, please contact us.
Copyright and Trademark Notice
All original content on this site, including any manipulations or enhancements, is the sole copyright of ThinkingofRob™ and ToR™.
Thinking of Rob 