What award did Glen Powell receive at CinemaCon?
Which role marked Glen Powell’s first film appearance?
What memorable gesture did Cheech Marin and Danny Trejo extend to Glen Powell during lunch?
What film did Glen Powell mention he is currently promoting at CinemaCon?
How does Glen Powell view his rise in Hollywood and the pressures that come with it?
Glen Powell picked up CinemaCon’s Star of the Year award on Thursday night, and he dedicated a piece of his acceptance speech to sharing a story about one of his early jobs when he was, well, not the movie star he is today.
The gig came courtesy of Robert Rodriguez’s 2003 franchise effort, Spy Kids 3: Game Over, and it marked Powell’s first film role. The part was so small that he’s listed on IMDb as “Long-fingered boy.” But something happened on set that Powell has never forgotten.
“I don’t know if Cheech Marin is in the room,” Powell said as he scanned the crowd seated inside the Colosseum at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. “Hey, my boy Cheech.”
Marin happened to be seated next to his longtime creative partner Tommy Chong as they were on the honoree program as well. The duo picked up a career achievement in comedy trophy during the Big Screen Achievement Awards.
“I was 12 years old, and you and Danny Trejo invited me to sit with you at lunch on my first day,” said Powell, 36. “I was the new kid at school, and that was the coolest lunch table. I’ll never forget that gesture. When you’re pursuing this career and you have those sort of pinch me moments, you don’t forget those and especially when no one’s inviting you to sit at the cool table. So, thank you.”
Powell had previously told The Hollywood Reporter in a cover story what the opportunity of playing even the smallest part in Spy Kids meant to him. It’s easy to see why as the film has a pretty stacked cast that includes Antonio Banderas, Carla Gugino, Alexa PenaVega, Sylvester Stallone, Salma Hayek, Tony Shalhoub, Steve Buscemi, George Clooney, Selena Gomez, Elijah Wood, Holland Taylore and more.
Tonight’s sweet onstage moment was followed by another compliment Powell lobbed toward Tom Cruise, his Top Gun: Maverick co-star and good friend who also happened to be in the building today.
“This morning I got to unleash the first footage of The Running Man right in front of Tom Cruise’s Mission Impossible: Final Reckoning. So it felt very full circle to be there with my theatrical filmmaking professor and the running man who has taught me the extreme work ethic that it takes to fill theaters and entertain audiences around the world.”
As he mentioned, Powell’s appearance at CinemaCon this year came as Paramount Pictures unveiled a first look at the Edgar Wright action film, which also stars Josh Brolin and Colman Domingo. During the studio’s presentation, Powell said he’s never worked harder than he did on The Running Man, and he plans to keep up the pace.
“I’m not slowing down, I’m just getting started,” he said during his speech. And even as he prepared to leave the convention with another accolade to add to his meteoric rise in Hollywood, he made sure to note just how measured he is about the attention.
“We all know you’re only one flop away from being the star of yesterday, so I’m not going to get cocky.”
Glen Powell Thanks Cheech Marin for Invite to Sit at “Cool Table” on ‘Spy Kids 3’ Set
In the realm of Hollywood filmmaking, the relationships forged on set often lead to unforgettable moments that not only shape careers but also build lasting friendships. One such anecdote recently came to light, drawing delight from fans and nostalgists alike. Glen Powell, a rising star known for his roles in films like “Top Gun: Maverick” and “Set It Up,” took to social media to express his gratitude to legendary actor and comedian Cheech Marin for a heartfelt gesture during the production of the beloved family film “Spy Kids 3-D: Game Over.”
Released in 2003, “Spy Kids 3-D: Game Over” is the third installment in the popular Spy Kids franchise, created by filmmaker Robert Rodriguez. The film blended elements of adventure, fantasy, and action, appealing to both children and adult audiences alike. Glen Powell, who was relatively new to the Hollywood scene at the time, played a supporting role as the character "Player 1." Meanwhile, Cheech Marin portrayed a charismatic character named “Demetra,” uniting the two actors in scenes that showcased their comedic chemistry.
In a recent Instagram post, Powell reflected on his fond memories from the set and the camaraderie shared among the cast and crew. One highlight from his time working on the film was an amusing yet poignant moment when Cheech extended an invitation to him to sit at the “cool table,” a metaphorical designation that Powell humorously embraced. For a young actor eager to establish his foothold in the industry, this moment was a validation of sorts, a heartfelt gesture from a respected veteran in the field.
“I’ll never forget the day Cheech Marin invited me to the ‘cool table’ on the set of ‘Spy Kids 3,’” Powell wrote in his post, accompanied by a photo of the two of them sharing a laugh on set. “It made my day and is a memory I’ll cherish forever. Thank you for welcoming me into this incredible world of filmmaking, Cheech!” He also included hashtags emphasizing the importance of mentorship and the nostalgic joy of being part of such a fun project.
Powell’s gratitude resonates on multiple levels. First and foremost, it speaks to the power of mentorship within the film industry. Mentors play a crucial role in shaping the careers of aspiring talents. When a luminary like Cheech Marin recognizes a young actor and makes him feel welcomed, it can create a ripple effect of confidence, inspiration, and motivation. Cheech himself is no stranger to mentorship—having worked alongside some of the greats and influencing numerous upcoming talents throughout his illustrious career.
In an industry known for its competitive nature, gestures like Cheech’s offer a glimpse into a more supportive side of Hollywood. Instead of gatekeeping and exclusivity, the environment can still foster encouragement and inclusion, allowing young talents to flourish. It’s a reminder that kindness is paramount, and camaraderie can create enriching experiences that go beyond mere performances or box office numbers.
Furthermore, Powell’s reflection also highlights the continuous evolution of an actor’s journey. For someone like Glen, who has gained prominence and acclaim, it’s important to remember and honor the beginnings, the moments that contributed to personal growth and paved the way for future opportunities. His gratitude towards Cheech Marin encapsulates the essence of humility, a trait that often distinguishes great actors. While Powell has undoubtedly carved out a name for himself, acknowledging those who have influenced his journey exemplifies a grounded perspective.
The warm camaraderie celebrated in Powell’s gratitude doesn’t just remain confined to individual relationships; it fosters a larger sense of community within cinematic storytelling. “Spy Kids 3” itself is a testament to collaboration and teamwork, showcasing a talented cast and crew working together to create a whimsical, adventurous film that catered to the imagination of a generation. Despite the film being released two decades ago, its impact remains, resonating with audiences who fondly recall the imaginative narrative of spy gear, virtual reality, and daring escapades.
As Glen Powell continues to rise through the ranks of Hollywood, it’s clear that he carries with him lessons learned from experiences like working with Cheech Marin. Engaging with established figures in the industry allows young actors to absorb their wisdom, integrate their values, and, ultimately, contribute positively to the future of filmmaking. Whether or not Powell takes inspiration from this memory into his future projects, the gesture serves as a reminder of the warm, supportive relationships that can blossom in this dynamic field.
In conclusion, Glen Powell’s heartfelt thank you to Cheech Marin sheds light on the significance of mentorship, camaraderie, and humility in Hollywood. Their interaction, often formed in the playful dynamics of the “cool table,” reinforces how small gestures can leave an indelible mark on the hearts and careers of emerging artists. Powell’s words echo a universal truth: that kindness within the industry acts as a catalyst for creativity, ensuring that future generations of filmmakers feel welcomed and inspired.
Glen Powell recently shared a heartwarming story about his experience on the set of “Spy Kids 3.” He expressed his gratitude to Cheech Marin for inviting him to join what he affectionately referred to as the “cool table.” The invitation made a significant impact on Powell, who appreciated the camaraderie and support from his co-stars during the filming. This gesture not only highlighted the friendly atmosphere on set but also showcased the importance of mentorship and inclusion in the industry, especially for young actors navigating their careers. Powell’s story serves as a reminder of the positive relationships that can develop in creative environments.