From Tom Wilkinson, nominated as Best Actor in a Supporting Role for his work in "Michael Clayton."
MTV: You've been nominated before. Is it sweeter the second time around?
Wilkinson: It's nice. It's nice to feel that you still got it. Still got the 'ole magic. Anytime anybody pays you the compliment of even saying that was a nice film - let alone nominating you for an award – you're thrilled. Or you should be anyway.
MTV: Well, it sounds almost as if there is a hint of surprise in your voice. You pick roles for a reason, obviously, but is it ever a surprise when it is as well received as it is?
Wilkinson: There is always an element of luck. I have done lots of performances that I felt were so good I was sure somebody was going to say 'Oh we will give him something' and it hasn't happened. You know you just take it - taking the rough with the smooth, and this is a bit of smooth.
MTV: At this point do you learn something new - are you developing as an actor - with each new role?
Wilkinson: Yeah, I try to. I know that sounds pretentious, but I do.
MTV: So in "Michael Clayton" what did you learn on that film that made you a better actor do you think?
Wilkinson: I don't know. I can't tell you. I just think that as long as you kind of continue to kind of approach this job like it is your first job. You know, with that same kind of a thrill. I mean you know there is a lot of water gone under the bridge, and I have done a lot of stuff, but I still kind of find it trilling to start work on a new script. It is still a great job.
MTV: I wonder when you are sitting there in the audience and they read of the list of names - the list of nominees - what is that feeling like when they are reading off the names and they open the envelope?
Wilkinson: I have the kind of mind where I have already sort of...I have already done my loser speech. So, you know never for a second think "Oh, I wonder if it could be me this time?" Because you know if you are nominated there is a pretty good chance that it could be you, and by then it has sort of come into a lottery. Who knows how people make their minds up. I don't know. I don't worry. It is great to be there. They are usually really good fun occasions.
MTV: You've been in a number of films where the whole cast was nominated, or several members of your cast were nominated. Again here. Is that something that you share with your fellow actors? Are you on the horn with George Clooney and Tilda today celebrating as a unit?
TW: No. [laughs] I am told Tilda is on an airplane, and George is somewhere in Rome. So, no, I tend not to do that.
MTV: Kurt Loder just yesterday released his top ten list and "Michael Clayton" was number one.
Wilkinson: Number one?
MTV: Number one sir, yes.
Wilkinson: Wow, good for you.
MTV: Good for you! Do you know going in? You must, right? You must know that this is fantastic -
Wilksinson: Yeah. It makes my job easy in a way - just put your feet up on the handle bars and blow kisses to the audience!
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