Times Of India Interview - I take life as it comes: Gerard Butler

http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-11-28/news-interviews/35386390_1_gerard-butler-romantic-comedy-film

I take life as it comes: Gerard Butler

Although most will remember Gerard Butler for his tough-as-nails role in 300, he has acted in a huge variety of films. The actor has come a long way down a road that's not been without its ups and downs. Over to Gerard, on what inspires him, his evolution as an actor, his musical connections and more:

What have you heard about India so far?
I just love India, the people and the food. Everything about the country is so bright, colorful and cheerful. What I've also heard is that you have a strong family value system in India.

Word is that people like shock rocker Marilyn Manson and actors Jack Black & Johnny Depp advised you on 'putting a first-rate band together'. Any plans to get into music?
I was actually writing a few songs at that time and Johnny Depp and I have jammed a few times before. And that's how he introduced me to Marilyn Manson and Jack Black.

What was it like, working with Gabriele Muccino?
Gabriele moulded his upcoming film so well. When he works, he's an animal. And I mean he's passionate and he's hungry and his hands are all over the place. He's exceptionally passionate and he loves to get compassion and emotion out of his actors. He also understands the deeper, darker human emotions. And that's what makes my upcoming film special to me. Also, I really enjoyed those moments of coaching the kids in the film. They were hilarious. And it was just fun that they were actually listening to me and doing what I said.

You have been open in interviews about struggling with alcoholism. In February 2012, your publicist announced that you had completed a course of treatment for substance abuse of pain killers, at a rehab-centre.
I'm not an alcoholic. I haven't had a drink in 15 years.

How do you like to relax, after hectic shooting schedules?Whenever I plan something, very rarely does it go that way. So I just sit back and take things as they come.

What music are you currently listening to?
I listen to all kinds of music. It's more like I trip over songs and continue to listen to them.

What inspires you?
Appreciation and spirituality inspires me.

From 1997's 'Mrs Brown' to now, how have you evolved as an actor?
The journey has been great. I've done action films, romantic comedy and I have enjoyed it. Acting is a passion for me and I get to do what I want. I take life as it comes and I'm currently enjoying where I am. I'm just going along doing my thing. Like if I say, 'that's it, I'm going to do a romantic comedy,' my next movie without a doubt will be an action or a thriller.

Ahhhh, the Indian press. Check out what he says about Johnny Depp in this video interview. This was taken in Dubai.