“Sh-t Or Get Off The Pot”: Daniel Craig Reflects on Filming Complex Opening Scene in Steven Spielberg’s Oscar-Nominated Historical Film

Although Daniel Craig is globally recognized for his role as James Bond, his acting portfolio extends beyond this iconic character, showcasing a variety of intriguing projects with notable directors. Before stepping into 007’s shoes in the 2006 film Casino Royale, Craig displayed his talent in films such as Sam Mendes’ Road to Perdition (2002) and Matthew Vaughn’s Layer Cake (2004). Notably, Craig’s collaboration with Steven Spielberg in 2005 yielded an Oscar-nominated historical thriller.

In the early 2000s, Spielberg enjoyed a prolific phase following a remarkable decade in cinema. The ’90s saw him produce monumental films like Jurassic Park (1993), Schindler’s List (1993), and Saving Private Ryan (1998). He seamlessly transitioned into the new millennium, delivering hits such as Minority Report (2002), Catch Me If You Can (2002), and War of the Worlds (2005), often collaborating with stars like Tom Cruise and Tom Hanks. It was during the production of another 2005 title that Craig made his first appearance alongside Spielberg.

Daniel Craig Reflects on Filming Munich’s Opening Scene

A Complex Start to Production

Daniel Craig as Steve looking worried behind the wheel in Munich

In a recent interview with Variety, Craig shared memories of shooting the challenging introductory scene for Munich with Spielberg. The film, which reflects on the real-life tragedy of the Black September massacre during the 1972 Munich Olympics, features Craig in a significant supporting role as Steve, a South African driver, alongside Eric Bana, who takes the lead as Avner.

Craig vividly described his experience filming the intricate first scene, which consisted of a dynamic tracking shot. As he noted, the camera navigated from the street, passed over the car’s hood, and around the back before pulling away. The complexity of this shot left a lasting impression on him:

“It was like, ‘I’ve arrived, OK?’ And you’re just like, ‘Oh my God!’ But what are you going to do? Sh-t or get off the pot. I mean, you’ve just gotta do it.”

Analyzing Craig & Spielberg’s Partnership in Munich

Exploring the Film’s Impact and Legacy

Steven Spielberg is renowned for his skill in crafting intricate shots, and Munich is no exception. While it may not rank among his most celebrated works, the film was nominated for five Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Director, even though it did not win any. Interestingly, in Munich, Craig takes on a supporting role, showcasing his versatility as an actor at a time when he had yet to become known as a leading man.

Moreover, Craig adopts a South African accent for his character, setting his performance apart from other roles he has taken on. Although Munich does not define the peak of Craig’s or Spielberg’s careers, it offers an engaging title worthy of revisiting, featuring some classic Spielberg cinematography.

Source: Variety

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