You probably remember actor Anthony Michael Hall from the 1980s, having had major roles in Sixteen Candles, The Breakfast Club and Weird Science. But it’s the 1980s–and the music that came out of the decade–which is casting the spotlight back upon Hall.
He’s playing legendary record producer Robert John “Mutt” Lange in VH1’s latest original film, Hysteria: The Def Leppard Story. The film will air 9 p.m. EST Wednesday and 10 p.m. EST Saturday.
Why did Hall take the role? What does he really think about the 1980s? And what’s the difference between a record producer and Bill Gates? Hall spoke with us about such quandaries, and much, much more.
You staying busy this summer, or taking it easy for now?
Hall: Keeping busy, absolutely. Success is a job, ya know? To me, it’s just a blessing to just be working. I was a child actor years ago, and I’m still working, man. I’m very lucky. I’m working on two TV shows right now.
TV definitely seems to be the medium of choice for you these days, with Pirates of Silicon Valley and 61* under your belt. And, now, with Hysteria. What attracted you to a film about Def Leppard?
Hall: The opportunity to play “Mutt,” definitely. He’s had such an impact on music, and I’m very musical. “Mutt”‘s an historical guy, musically. But he’s relaxed. He does what he wants. He’s a great, private guy.
Would you say you’re a Def Leppard fan?
Hall: Definitely. And people really love them. They’ve sold millions of records–made a lot of money–so obviously they’re a major band.
Gotta favorite song?
Hall: Um, yeah, “Rock of Ages.” I’d say that’s my favorite.
Did you go see them live very often before shooting?
Hall: No, honestly, I’ve never seen them live. Nope.
You portray “Mutt” Lange, who’s notorious for his perfectionism in the studio, almost to a fault. Did you do any special preparation for the role in order to pull it off?
Hall: Ya know, I tried to contact “Mutt,” but couldn’t get a hold of him. He’s very private. Wouldn’t get involved with the movie.
So, you’re basically out there flying blind in your performance, eh?
Hall: Yeah, man, I had to. Ya know, I just reached for that Zen-like quality he has. It had to be my version of him as I felt he’d really be. I played him laid back, yet driven, ya know?
Any word from “Mutt” on how you pulled off the performance?
Hall: Nah, man, haven’t heard anything from him. Not a word. But we did send the script to him for approval, and he gave it. But he’s so elusive–you just can’t contact the guy.
He seems to be somewhat similar to another perfectionist character you’ve played–Bill Gates in Pirates of Silicon Valley.
Hall: I really wouldn’t say they’re so similar. Gates, he’s just such an interesting guy. But he’s all about success, ya know? His motivation was to keep Microsoft No. 1, period. I think “Mutt”‘s more driven by quality.
Have you developed more of a love for the ’80s since doing the film? The time period seems to be much more popular these days in our culture.
Hall: Hey, the ’80s were great. I mean, sure, you had the hairdos and the funny clothing and all those scary trends, but it was a great time, man.
Any thoughts on why that decade is so hot right now?
Hall: Ya know, it happens with every generation, man. It’s a cycle. Like, in the ’80s, the ’60s were cool. And in the ’90s, you had the ’70s. But, with the ’80s, it was just such a fun decade. It seems to be that people in one decade tend to blame the previous one, for everything. But the ’80s seem to be looked upon differently.
Gotcha. So, anything interesting coming down the road?
Hall: Hey, I’m just always learning. You have to keep learning. You have to.
