Austin Butler Soars In 'Masters Of The Air': A Deep Dive Into The Show, His Role, And His Love For 'Dune: Part Two'

Austin Butler Soars in 'Masters of the Air': A Deep Dive into the Show, His Role, and His Love for 'Dune: Part Two'

Explore Austin Butler's journey from Elvis to WWII fighter pilot in 'Masters of the Air', his experience working with Tom Hanks, and his deep admiration for 'Dune: Part Two'.

Austin Butler, known for his Oscar-nominated performance as Elvis Presley, has taken to the skies in his latest role in Apple TV+'s 'Masters of the Air'. The show, based on Donald L. Miller’s book of the same name, chronicles the real-life friendship between B-17 fighter pilots Gale “Buck” Cleven (Butler) and John “Bucky” Egan played by Callum Turner.

'Masters of the Air': A Show of Epic Proportions

'Masters of the Air', an Apple TV+ series, is a grand spectacle that takes viewers on a thrilling journey through the perilous skies of World War II. The show, based on Donald L. Miller’s book, is a gripping tale of the 100th Bomb Group and their daring bombing raids over Nazi Germany.

The series, produced by the renowned duo Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg, is a testament to the bravery and resilience of these airmen. It showcases the psychological toll of war, the bonds formed in the face of adversity, and the sheer will to survive.

The show's main characters, Major Gale 'Buck' Cleven (Austin Butler) and Major John 'Bucky' Egan (Callum Turner), were actual pilots in the 100th Bomb Group. Their on-screen camaraderie is a reflection of their real-life friendship, adding a layer of authenticity to the narrative.

Despite the show's slow pace, it has been lauded for its charismatic performances and cutting-edge action sequences. The detailed portrayal of WWII and the camaraderie between the airmen have resonated with audiences, making it a must-watch for history and drama enthusiasts.

'Masters of the Air' is not just a show; it's a tribute to the heroes of the past, a testament to human spirit, and a reminder of the horrors of war. It's a grand spectacle that leaves viewers with a profound sense of respect for the brave men who risked their lives for freedom.

Austin Butler’s Transformation from Elvis to Buck

Austin Butler, the actor who garnered critical acclaim and an Oscar nomination for his portrayal of Elvis Presley, underwent a significant transformation for his role in 'Masters of the Air'. His journey from the King of Rock 'n' Roll to Major Gale 'Buck' Cleven, a B-17 fighter pilot, is a testament to his versatility and commitment to his craft.

Butler's transformation was not just physical, but also linguistic. After wrapping up 'Elvis', Butler found himself still speaking with an Elvis accent. To shed this accent and adopt a more fitting one for his character in 'Masters of the Air', Butler hired a dialect coach. This dedication to authenticity is evident in his performance as Buck, a character who is more measured and realistic compared to his previous role.

The transition was not without its challenges. Butler revealed that he broke a rib while filming a fight scene for 'Masters of the Air'. Despite the pain, he continued filming, showcasing his commitment to the role.

Butler's transformation also involved a mental shift. He went from being on stage in a jumpsuit to being one of 50 guys in fatigues. This shift was crucial in helping him move on from Elvis and fully immerse himself in his new role.

Tom Hanks’ Pitch and Butler’s Leap of Faith

In the world of Hollywood, the transition from one role to another can be a challenging journey. For Austin Butler, this journey was made smoother by the guidance of none other than Tom Hanks.

As Butler was wrapping up his Oscar-nominated performance as Elvis Presley, Hanks saw potential in the young actor for a different kind of role. Recognizing Butler's talent and versatility, Hanks envisioned him in the role of Major Gale 'Buck' Cleven in the World War II drama, 'Masters of the Air'.

In early 2021, just weeks before the completion of 'Elvis', Hanks took Butler out to dinner and pitched him the idea of 'Masters of the Air'. The show, a spiritual successor to the Emmy-winning miniseries 'Band of Brothers' and 'The Pacific', was being developed for Apple TV+.

Butler, a huge fan of 'Band of Brothers', 'The Pacific', and 'Saving Private Ryan', was immediately intrigued¹. The opportunity to work with the likes of Hanks, Steven Spielberg, and Gary Goetzman was too good to pass up¹. He leapt at the chance, embracing the role with everything he had.

Butler’s Love for ‘Dune: Part Two’

Austin Butler, the versatile actor who has captivated audiences with his performances in 'Elvis' and 'Masters of the Air', has expressed a deep admiration for 'Dune: Part Two'. His enthusiasm for the film is palpable, reflecting his passion for the art of cinema.

In 'Dune: Part Two', Butler takes on the role of Feyd-Rautha Harkonnen, the nephew of Baron Vladimir Harkonnen. This character is a stark contrast to his previous roles, showcasing Butler's ability to adapt and immerse himself in diverse characters.

Butler's portrayal of Feyd is unique and intriguing. He revealed that his performance was inspired by the movements and behaviors of snakes and sharks. This approach adds a layer of complexity to his character, making Feyd a compelling and formidable antagonist.

Butler's preparation for the role was rigorous. He underwent intense knife-fight training, further demonstrating his commitment to delivering an authentic performance. His transformation for the role, both physically and mentally, is a testament to his dedication to his craft.

In conclusion, Austin Butler continues to impress audiences with his diverse roles and dedicated performances. From the King of Rock and Roll to a WWII fighter pilot, and now a villain in a sci-fi epic, Butler's career is soaring to new heights.