The Kinesthetics of Liev

"There is no system. There is only nature.

My lifelong concern has been how to get

ever closer to the so-called system, that is,

to get ever closer to the nature of creativity."

- Stanislavsky

What brings you closer to creativity?

At last night's Yale Appearance, Liev gave his admirers what we've all been wanting: a  peek behind the curtain at the machinations of the man as an artist. How does he get there?

(SOB - And can I just say that I would have given anything to get there, myself?)

However, the next best thing is that I've heard from a girl who was there (Hi Rogue!). I've sent her a message asking for permission to post her account of the experience here. Until then, you'll have to suffer through my vicarious impressions.

APOLOGIES: I misunderstood Rogue's wonderful account of the Yale night and credited her with giving Liev the concept of Kinesthetics. In fact, it was the Moderator who supplied this much appreciated word. This was entirely my fault - I was so caught up in the excitement of Rogue's wonderful storytelling that the details skimed over me. And besides, I hadn't had my coffee yet when I wrote it. **BLUSHING PROFUSELY**

Rogue asked Liev a question to which he gave an enthusiastic answer. Again, I will let her tell you about it if she agrees to post here.

So... tactile learning...

We've always know that Liev was way beyond smart enough to understand a role and grasp its significance and impact on the project as a whole, no matter how much actual face-time he gets (Sum of All Fears, Repo Men, 100 Years, Painted Veil etc). We've seen his commitment, whether it's through intense preparation and study, (Everything is Illuminated, Woodstock, Defiance etc.) or just his generosity of spirit with a great desire for all projects to go well.

It's pretty clear that for Liev this is not just a job.

What I haven't seen is how he feels in a role; actually occupying it. What makes it hum for him? How does he crawl into the skin of Marty Kantrowitz with such peaceful conviction and then, later on, inhabit the gigantic presence that is Sabretooth with such unyielding power?

We know he loves research and learning and knowing. But what about he himself. When does the Liev in Liev give over? According to my lovely and lucky source, he stands in front of a mirror at home and guzzles a glass of wine while toasting his Grandfather, Alex. 

Were you ready for that endearing image? Were you ready for that kind of intimate peek-a-boo? I was not - which made it that much more thrilling for me. There was some talk of stretching, toe-touching and other manoeuvres which bring the "gym" into kinesiology for me, but this single act is what I loved hearing the most.

What this says to me is that Liev's goal in his work is to be honest. His dedication to the process comes from a place of honour and integrity - and those virtues were bestowed upon him by his Grandfather.

I'm sure Alex was watching the whole thing last night - a Great Spirit up there embibing his "spirits" and beaming with pride at the Grandson who pays homage to him and conjures up all the good before going out and doing them both proud.

Can you hear my heartstrings?  ♪♫♪♫♪♫