Ethan Hawke’s performance as John Brown in The Good Lord Bird is a standout in his extensive career, showcasing his remarkable range and depth as an actor. Hawke’s portrayal of the complex and multifaceted abolitionist John Brown is both powerful and memorable, capturing the intensity and conviction of the character’s moral conviction and righteousness. Hawke’s preparation for the role involved a meticulous study of John Brown’s prison letters, as well as channeling his own Texan grandfather’s imposing presence.
Hawke’s performance is loud and commanding, imbued with a sense of righteousness that sets him apart from his previous roles. Unlike his reserved and deeply psychotic character in The Black Phone, or his kindly and mellowed father in Netflix’s Leave the World Behind, Hawke brings to life the fierce and formidable zealot that John Brown was. Hawke’s ability to bring nuance and complexity to his characters is a testament to his skill as an actor, and his performance as John Brown is no exception.
The miniseries, based on James McBride’s novel, follows the exploits of abolitionist John Brown, told through the eyes of African American Henry “Onion” Shackleford, who serves as an unofficial biographer. Onion’s narration provides a unique perspective on John Brown’s thoughts, feelings, and actions, as he recounts the events leading up to and including the ill-fated raid on Harpers Ferry. The series explores John Brown’s radical and militant abolitionism, as well as his clear-minded and rational nature, driven by his sense of moral truth.
Ethan Hawke in The Good Lord Bird (Photo: The Good Lord Bird)
Hawke’s performance captures the intensity and conviction of John Brown, whether he is fighting for justice or preaching his abolitionist message. His unkempt appearance, which gradually grows out his beard as the series progresses, perfectly represents the magnitude of John Brown’s life: huge and unruly. Hawke’s relentless energy and focus bring to life the complex and multifaceted character of John Brown, making his performance a memorable and powerful one.
Throughout the series, Hawke’s attention to detail and devotion to his craft are evident, from his study of John Brown’s prison letters to his channeling of his Texan grandfather’s imposing presence. Hawke’s performance is a testament to his skill as an actor, able to bring depth and nuance to even the most complex characters. His portrayal of John Brown in The Good Lord Bird is a powerful and memorable one, making it a standout in his extensive career.
