Laurence Fishburne Presents Raw Side In One-Man Stage Show, ‘Like They Do In The Movies’

Laurence Fishburne, known for films like The Matrix and Apocalypse Now, reveals a touching, raw and emotional side to him in his one-man stage show, Like They Do in the Movies. The show, written by Fishburne and directed by Leonard Foglia, opened on March 21 at the Perelman Performing Arts Center in New York City.

Fishburne opens up about his acting career, spearheaded by his mother when he was a child. Hattie Fishburne saw talent in her son at a young age and pushed him into the performing arts. In contrast to usual well-known tough and authoritative roles, Fishburne’s performance in Like They Do in the Movies is soft and intimate as he narrates his life to the audience. Though, that doesn’t mean it isn’t powerful.

As a solo performer, Fishburne embodies each person/character that impacted his life and career, such as a Hurricane Katrina survivor, a homeless man and more. Against a simple set, hosting only a long table and two chairs, Fishburne’s presence stands out against his stark surroundings.

Like They Do in the Movies isn’t Fishburne’s first solo show.

In 2008, the actor played Thurgood Marshall in Thurgood, also directed by Foglia. While Thurgood fell under Fishburne’s usual scope of playing other people, Like They Do in the Movies is Fishburne’s space to present his own story, including “the stories and lies people have told me. And that I have told myself,” as described by Fishburne.

Fishburne presents his most authentic self and the truth about his career he wants the audience to hear, not the stoic characters he’s been given all throughout his career.

Like They Do in the Movies draws inspiration from other performances by fellow celebrities such as Whoopi Goldberg, John Leguizamo and Roscoe Lee Browne amongst others. It not only focuses on Fishburne’s life but also delves into racial identity and interpersonal conflicts.

Though the show runs for two and a half hours, Fishburne’s pacing provides a punch with each scene. The show began previews on March 10 and will run until March 31. Get tickets now.