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Brad Pitt (center) and Jason Statham (left) in Guy Ritchie’s gangster classic ‘Snatch’ (2000).
Dominic HugHead of People Department
He is monosyllabic like the heroes of his films: director Guy Ritchie (54) has become a big name in the world of cinema thanks to action hits such as ‘Snatch’, ‘Sherlock Holmes’ and ‘Cash Truck’. With his friend Jason Statham (55), he is now bringing “Operation Fortune” to the cinema – and here, too, you can laugh a lot at the fine words of the witty Englishman.
Blick: “Operation Fortune” is hilarious. How do you make up such a crazy story?
Guy Richie: I’ve always been fascinated by spy movies. But many of the films coming out today feel a little dated. I wanted to breathe new life into the genre. I don’t remember how we got to this crazy story. It had to be all new somehow.
When you write a story, do you already know who should be in the role?
Yes, that’s quite unusual for me. Other directors tick differently. They have a story, then they look for actors. For me it’s different. Because I think punchlines don’t work the same way for all actors.
Your friend Jason Statham is in practically all your movies.
I agree. Our humor is very similar. I think of a new film, I call him, I tell him my idea. And most of the time it hits you right away. Very simple.
What makes your friendship so special?
My kids love it, my wife too, even my in-laws! This makes a relationship easier if the family thinks the friend is great. This also makes Jason attractive to me as an actor. He can inspire several generations, not many others can.
Personally
Guy Ritchie began his career directing commercials and music videos. With “Snatch”, in which Brad Pitt (59) starred, he achieved great success in the early 2000s. During that time he made a few short films with his then wife Madonna (64). Since then he has repeatedly worked with stars such as Jude Law (50), Robert Downey Jr. (57), Matthew McConaughey (53) and especially Jason Statham (55). Ritchie has been married to model Jacqui Ainsley (41) since 2015. The couple have three children.
Guy Ritchie began his career directing commercials and music videos. With “Snatch”, in which Brad Pitt (59) starred, he achieved great success in the early 2000s. During that time he made a few short films with his then wife Madonna (64). Since then he has repeatedly worked with stars such as Jude Law (50), Robert Downey Jr. (57), Matthew McConaughey (53) and especially Jason Statham (55). Ritchie has been married to model Jacqui Ainsley (41) since 2015. The couple have three children.
Most of your films are set in Europe. How come?
I’m English, I like European cinema, it trained me. But I’m pretty slutty, I’d even shoot in Hollywood. It just doesn’t happen that often.
Would you be interested in making a Bond film too?
I often hear the question. But I never delved into it. Maybe I should really think about it.
Is it a romantic movie?
I like romantic comedies, strangely also costume dramas. It’s something I could have fun with. But I don’t think far ahead. I take care of a matter, I get it done. Then I move on to the next thing. I’m not a great visionary.
They were quickly very successful. What would have happened if your career hadn’t started so fast?
I have no idea, I certainly didn’t have a plan B in mind. I took the risk. I am convinced that you can only be successful with something if you don’t struggle with other things at the same time.
what do you regret
Nothing today. Maybe tomorrow will be different. I’ve done a couple of movies that haven’t been very successful. do i love her less? Or do I sleep less well because of this? To both: no. One should have no regrets in life. reconciliation is more important.
