22.02.12
Common doesn’t watch a lot of television, and he hasn’t had many small-screen roles, but there was something about AMC’s new Western “Hell on Wheels” that captured his attention and wouldn’t let go.</p><p>The 10-episode drama, which debuts Sunday, is a tale of revenge set against the backdrop of post-Civil War America and the westward construction of the transcontinental railroad. </p><p>Common, who is best known for turns in flicks such as “Date Night” and “American Gangster,” co-stars as Elam. He’s a former slave looking for a better life as a free, wage-earning man but keeps getting tripped up on the racism that has long outlasted the institution.</p><p>“I wasn’t really expecting to do a TV series,” the rapper-turned-actor says. “But it was such quality writing and material. This is one of the best characters I’ve come across, movie or TV. If I was going to do TV, I wanted to align my name with something impressive, and AMC is like an art house station in its own right.”</p><p>In turn, Common (Lonnie Rashid Lynn Jr.) worked hard to bring his character to life. He researched the period, took horseback riding lessons and became familiar with an insanely large straight blade also known as an Arkansas Toothpick. The end result is a very inspired and convincing performance in what is arguably the 39-year-old’s most challenging acting gig to date.</p><p>“I did as much studying as I could. I researched the building of the railroad and why a man like this would go out there to build a railroad and, after that, I prayed,” Common says.“It’s tough. I know as a former slave, he had to be subservient, but I could see the strength in this character even in that position during that time.</p><p>“He’s taking a stand for equality and for himself, and that’s real strength. That’s stronger than any kingpin. Can you imagine being strong in a time when speaking up for yourself could cost you your life? This is not a character you see a lot on TV. I feel honored.”</p><p>Starring alongside Common in “Hell on Wheels” is Anson Mount (“City by the Sea”), who plays a former Confederate soldier determined to avenge the death of his wife, and Colm Meaney (“Get Him to the Greek” and BBC’s “Life on Mars”), who co-stars as a railroad baron.</p><p>“Even people who don’t love Westerns will appreciate this show,” Common says. “This is beyond a Western. There’s a lot of history and something for everybody.”</p><p><strong>Where to watch</strong></p><p>“Hell on Wheels” debuts at 9 p.m. Sunday on AMC. To see a preview, go to <a href ="http://www.amctv.com/shows/hell-on-wheels/video" target="_blank">AMCTV.com</a>.
Source: Kansas City Star
This is not a character you see a lot on TV. I feel honored.” Starring alongside Common in “Hell on Wheels” is Anson Mount (“City by the Sea”), who plays a former Confederate soldier determined to avenge the death of his wife, and Colm Meaney (“Get Him ...
Barao immediately unloaded a combination that dropped Pickett, stood over him and rained down more punches, followed him to the mat, took back mount, and then choked out the dazed fighter with a rear-naked choke in a lightning-quick sequence. ...
