In his directorial debut, “Poolman,” Chris Pine is facing the challenge of navigating the aftermath of its less-than-stellar reception. Despite the film receiving negative reviews, Pine remains resilient and focused on maintaining a sense of joy and playfulness, particularly in his role as an actor.
During a candid conversation on the Happy Sad Confused podcast with host Josh Horowitz, Pine opened up about his approach to handling criticism. He emphasized the inherent joy in acting, likening it to a form of play where individuals can embrace their inner child and engage in make-believe. For Pine, maintaining this playful attitude is essential, regardless of the challenges he faces.
While “Poolman” depicts Pine as a pool technician in Los Angeles who stumbles upon a water heist, the film failed to resonate positively with audiences and critics alike. Pine acknowledged the disappointment of receiving negative reviews, describing it as a “come to Jesus moment” that tested his resilience.
Despite the initial sting of criticism, Pine expressed a commitment to finding joy and meaning in his work. He reflected on the cognitive dissonance of creating a project filled with joy, only to be met with a barrage of negative feedback. However, Pine emphasized the importance of embracing growth and resilience in the face of adversity.
Moreover, Pine remains steadfast in his belief in the film, despite its rocky reception. He recounted a moment of self-doubt following early reviews but ultimately reaffirmed his love for the project upon rewatching it. Pine’s unwavering confidence in “Poolman” speaks to his dedication as an artist and his ability to find joy in the creative process, regardless of external criticism.
As “Poolman” prepares to hit theaters, Pine’s resilience and determination serve as a reminder of the importance of staying true to one’s artistic vision, even in the face of adversity.
