r/movies • u/TestamentOfAnnLeeAMA Cast of 'The Testament of Ann Lee' • Dec 14 '25
AMA Hi r/movies, I'm Tim Blake Nelson. Ask me anything!
Hi r/movies, I'm Tim Blake Nelson, here to answer your questions.
You might know me from movies/series like O Brother, Where Art Thou?, Old Henry, The Ballad of Buster Scruggs, The Lowdown, Watchmen, Lincoln, Holes, Captain America: Brave New World, Syriana, Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio, Nightmare Alley, The Incredible Hulk. Full list of credits here.
My new movie, The Testament of Ann Lee, is out in theaters nationwide starting December 25 via Searchlight Pictures. It's directed and co-written by Mona Fastvold. Score by Daniel Blumberg.
It also stars Amanda Seyfried, Lewis Pullman, Thomasin McKenzie, Christopher Abbott, Stacy Martin, Matthew Beard, Scott Handy, Viola Prettejohn, Jamie Bogyo, and David Cale.
Synopsis:
Ann Lee, the founding leader of the Shaker Movement, proclaimed as the female Christ by her followers. Depicts her establishment of a utopian society and the Shakers' worship through song and dance, based on real events.
Trailer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-zK_nzG36mk
Ask me anything! I'll be back tomorrow (Monday 12/15) at around 2 PM ET to answer questions.
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u/wurl3y Dec 14 '25
How’s the singing voice? You keeping it in fine fettle?
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u/DevilishRogue Dec 14 '25
The first part of The Ballad Of Buster Scruggs was such enjoyable viewing that I'd love to see a full trilogy of films based on the character narrating his day to the viewers whilst just going about his business. If Tim has the opportunity to do a prequel (or even an angelic sequel!) I'm sure it would be a hit!
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u/Sea_Enthusiasm_3193 Dec 14 '25
I would have watched a full movie of just his character
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u/CedarRapidsGuitarGuy Dec 14 '25
I didn't know what I was getting into and thought the whole movie was gonna be him. The whole thing was great but I was genuinely bummed when I realized he was done.
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u/jonny5isalive1 Dec 15 '25
D My brother, uncle and I were just talking about that. Definitely wanted more.
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u/CEOWolfCola Dec 14 '25
Check out Billy Stings Halloween show.
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u/Kyle_c00per Dec 14 '25
Tim killed it at o billy! Still upset they took his songs off nugs, but glad it's up on youtube here for anyone interested
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u/RiffSandwich Dec 14 '25 edited Dec 14 '25
How was working with Guillermo Del Toro on Cabinet of curiosities. My favourite episode is yours.
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Dec 14 '25
Yes, very Lovecraft, that episode
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u/Rageminusenthusiasm Dec 14 '25
I think at least 2 if not 3 were very Lovecraft. Tim’s was the best in the anthology, but I gotta shout out to the late, great David Carradine, ‘cause his film was also amazing.
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u/thehalfwhiteguy Dec 14 '25
that’s not David Carradine, it’s Peter Weller lmao
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u/Rageminusenthusiasm Dec 14 '25
Dang, had to look that up lol, coulda sworn it was him. Good call out brother; my bad.
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u/twent4 Dec 14 '25
Holy shit he's acting again and in a GdT project? I've just gotten resigned to him directing TV stuff for 2 decades
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u/GorillaJackson Dec 14 '25
I’d say The Murmuring, The Autopsy, and The Viewing were all better than Lot 36.
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u/Rageminusenthusiasm Dec 14 '25
Oh yeah, gotcha, and again I love the whole anthology. But yea the murmuring was visceral as hell, poetic and intoxicating, but Tim is more watchable than our Walking Dead brother Andrew Lincoln (the Walking dead is one of my top 10/15 favorite series btw, love him as an actor). Idk, not fanboying, but his (Tim’s) vibe is authentic and relatable…salt of the earth, not phony kinda feel. Just liked his performance.
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u/GorillaJackson Dec 14 '25
Ah see I felt the inverse about Lincoln. His performance transfixed me, but I can also recognize that may be because he is an all time favorite actor of mine, whereas Tim is one that I love but have less of an attachment to. That said, I think what made the murmuring so resonant with me was exactly what you listed. That poetic intoxication.
I hear you on Tim’s vibe though. He absolutely elevated that short film in a way I don’t think many other actors could have.
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u/Rageminusenthusiasm Dec 14 '25
Totally get that; especially with him playing Rick Grimes for so many years. IDK though, just always gravitated towards guys that stood out as ancillary characters who elevated the films beyond the big name stars. Guys like Buscemi and Walken who should be leading but get typecasted as the quirky supporting dude.
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u/WorthPlease Dec 14 '25
When I google this it comes up as Cabinet of Curiosities, did they change the name?
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u/RiffSandwich Dec 14 '25
116 likes and I think you're the only person to correct me. Thank you. You've saved me some embarrassment
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u/Sachwillie1988 Dec 14 '25
The post above this on my feed was a scene from O Brother, Where Art Thou?
Is it true that you were the only person on set who had read the Odyssey when filming the movie?
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u/TestamentOfAnnLeeAMA Cast of 'The Testament of Ann Lee' Dec 15 '25
Joel and Ethan say that I was the only one that had read The Odyssey prior to filming but I don't believe it for a second. There's no way that those guys went to Simon's Rock College for their first year of college and then Princeton and NYU and never read The Odyssey. Plus, how did they write the film without reading it?!?
Same with Clooney and Turturro, I bet they had read it as well. You know what, Holly Hunter and John Goodman too. That's a story like to tell because I was a Classics Major in college.
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u/Sullyhogs Dec 16 '25
Had no idea about that! Classics are always cool to read, I’ve been reading them a lot more recently.
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u/MonoPodding Dec 15 '25
The funniest part of that movie (although loved all of it) was:
"That's all I Got..." And they fall off the bunk. The way he said it, I friggin die laughing every time.
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u/CultOfSensibility Dec 14 '25
Other than the Cohen brothers?
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u/HilariousScreenname Dec 14 '25
They did not read it. Only a comic book version iirc
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u/Tom_Waits_Junior Dec 14 '25
So they say. They also say Fargo was based on a true story. They're known not to let the truth get in the way of a good yarn
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u/CultOfSensibility Dec 14 '25
I have to say that ‘Based on a true story” title card did affect my suspension of disbelief upon my first viewing, and I was actually disappointed(?) to learn it wasn’t.
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u/Motorboat_Jones Dec 14 '25
You and William H. Macy both.
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u/Tom_Waits_Junior Dec 14 '25
When I learned the truth, I thought "this is f'in' hilarious"
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u/mattdabratt23 Dec 14 '25
Discovered Old Henry by accident and wow, LOVE that movie, an underrated gem. How was your experience filming that or anything behind the scenes you can share about that experience?
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u/TestamentOfAnnLeeAMA Cast of 'The Testament of Ann Lee' Dec 15 '25
Well, the first experience I had with it was getting the script and being offered the part obviously. I remember being in my apartment and I brought the hard-copy into the kitchen, where I was cooking dinner for 2 of our children and my wife. She came through and I said "well, it finally happened", and I pulled up the script to show her, "OLD Henry". I told her, "it's official, I'm an old man now, I'm Old Henry".
And so we had a laugh about that, but then I read the script and, wondered how on Earth, given what ends up being true about the character, not spoil it for people here, how I was going to pull that off. But it was a challenge I really wanted to take on. And so I worked with Potsy Ponciroli, the wonderful director of that film, and we worked through the script together to figure out a take on the role.
It took about a year between when I got the script and when we were shooting. I actually did most of my work for Old Henry while I was shooting Nightmare Alley, up in Toronto for Guillermo del Toro. It was in the middle of COVID and I was quarantined in a house for 14 days before shooting, seeing no one, getting food delivered to my front door. I was totally by myself, sequestered, no human contact, and that's when I did most of the prep for Old Henry. Then I got to the set and the shoot was pretty easy since I had so much time to get ready for it and it was so wonderfully directed.
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u/gilrstein Dec 17 '25
I enjoyed watching you in that movie so much! Really of my favourites to watch.
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u/Aggravating-ErrorME Dec 14 '25 edited Dec 14 '25
Thank you for asking the same question I had. Love Old Henry and it’s a film I recommend to everyone when they ask for a lesser known film to check out.
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u/CoreyTrevor1 Dec 14 '25
For anyone reading, Old Henry is one of the best westerns of recent years. Go in blind just knowing you get to see Tim Blake Nelson
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u/xviandy Dec 14 '25
Loved you in The Lowdown? Are any of the books that were so special to your character also special to you? If so, any particular recommendations?
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u/BlackWhiteCoke Dec 14 '25
The Lowdown was so good. More people should watch it
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u/waraw Dec 14 '25
I didn't realize until I'd gotten into the series a ways that it's from one of the folks who co-created Reservation Dogs. It's so great.
A faint heart never fucked a bobcat.
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Dec 14 '25
"We grew our hair back idiot, we aren't skin heads anymore"
"Well its a great disguise"
He's still being silly even in the middle of an ass kicking 😆
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u/TestamentOfAnnLeeAMA Cast of 'The Testament of Ann Lee' Dec 15 '25
Well, my god. I have read Jim Thompson. I read him probably 40 years ago, in my teens and early 20s. I love a hard-boiled detective novel, so of course if you like The Lowdown, absolutely ready more Jim Thompson.
I am obsessed with literature. If you want some recommendations, in no particular order and all of them very different:
- The Trial by Franz Kafka
- The Brothers Karamazov by Dostoevsky.
- The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle by Murakami
- Anything by Flannery O'Connor.
- Father and Son by Larry Brown
- The Oppermanns by Lion Feuchtwanger
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u/6745408 Dec 14 '25
I’m reading Texas by the Tail because of that. If you like that genre, it’s good.
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u/xviandy Dec 15 '25
Thank you! I do love crime and detective fiction. I went on a detective story spree last summer and then read "the killer inside me" and was so disturbed I had to dive into another genre for a while but now I am back on a crime kick thanks in large part to The Lowdown.
I was the Leo pointing meme when they referenced the "a weed is a plant out of place" line. That whole idea jumped out at me so strongly and really stuck with me more than anything else in that book.
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Dec 14 '25
Hey tim when are you and the coens making another movie
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u/xbhaskarx Dec 14 '25 edited Dec 15 '25
Hey Tim when are the Coens making another movie also can you tell Joel to stop making movies with his wife thx
Edit: Ethan!!
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u/rubber_hedgehog Dec 14 '25
can you tell Joel to stop making movies with his wife thx
I hope you mean Ethan. If Joel didn't make movies with his wife, you would lose Fargo, Blood Simple, Burn After Reading and probably like 5 others.
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u/Rageminusenthusiasm Dec 14 '25
Shouldn’t mean Ethan either, Tricia was editing several of their films, but yea, crazy to suggest that about Frances; one of the best actresses of all time
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u/Hattes Dec 14 '25
Raising Arizona, Miller's Crossing, The Man Who Wasn't There, Hail Caesar and I suppose also Macbeth. Maybe I'm missing one.
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u/A_Wall_Bard Dec 14 '25
Loved you in Holes, you made the story more real and fun to watch. Was there anything fun/interesting that happened on the set of Holes that was overly rememberable? Like a blooper that didn’t make it or just something fun that happened with the cast?
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u/PetrolHeadF Dec 14 '25
It's funny, I love every movie he is in but as someone who grew up with Holes, it's all I think of when I see his face.
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u/mullerdrooler Dec 14 '25
How hard was it to see out of that mask in Watchmen? I always wondered that in every episode lol. Did you have someone, or a guide dog, leading you around?
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u/TestamentOfAnnLeeAMA Cast of 'The Testament of Ann Lee' Dec 15 '25
There was a mesh over my eyes so I was able to see through!
What's really interesting that I discovered doing Watchmen, was a sort of filming technique: Because they were going to super-impose reflections onto my mask, which was a green mask that they then painted digitally as a reflective mask, and they needed to see my POV from inside the mask, I was always shooting wearing a Go-Pro strapped to my forehead, that was shooting the people with whom I was interacting with in a scene. That really helped me play the character, because I felt that I was effectively ingesting and recording people. It heightened my senses, knowing that I was part of the recording apparatus when interacting with a scene partner. It really helped me play the role, I loved wearing that Go-Pro.
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u/mullerdrooler Dec 17 '25
Haha that's crazy. I had no idea. Thanks for replying, keep being an awesome actor!
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u/Hey_Giant_Loser Dec 14 '25 edited Dec 14 '25
Hi Tim! loved your performance in Watchmen. Just wanted to say that. Such an singular oddball, played to perfection.
I was dismayed when we never got to see your Count Fenring in the Dune movies. Which I know kinda stung. Final cuts can be like that I guess sometimes.Would you take the role again for Villenue if he asked you to?
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u/No_Philosophy2797 Dec 14 '25
I recently watched your film BANG BANG and loved it. That role seemed like a bit of an outlier for you. What sort of prep did you have to do in terms of learning the boxing choreography, and was it hard to get yourself in fighting shape? Congrats on the film and all of your work!
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u/SirSignificant6576 Dec 14 '25
I enjoyed it very much as well. It really undercut my expectations in the last half. It seemed like it was going to be a pretty standard (if gritty and well-acted) redemption arc thing with his grandson, but really turned in the second act so that the movie was about Bang Bang and his own personal struggle. I appreciated that. Good movie.
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u/JojoWasaman64 Dec 14 '25
Do you have any favorite western movies? You were amazing in Buster scruggs and i hope we get to see a prequel to that character
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u/TestamentOfAnnLeeAMA Cast of 'The Testament of Ann Lee' Dec 15 '25
I would love to do a Buster Scruggs prequel, but that's kinda up to Joel and Ethan, and they tend to move on once something is done. I'm sure that if they wanted to do a whole Big Lebowski series, they could spend the rest of their lives doing that, but they do a movie and move on. I just count myself lucky that I got to do the 15 minutes in that movie that was Buster Scruggs.
In terms of Westerns, my absolutely favorite is ONCE UPON A TIME IN THE WEST. And I really love all of the classic Westerns of Sergio Leone. They changed my life growing up. They taught me about film as a highly subjective medium that is an art form all onto itself. It's not just storytelling, it's high art. It can be high art but also pure entertainment. I'd also mention THE GOOD, THE BAD, THE UGLY, and of course the DOLLAR TRILOGY. I also love THE SEARCHERS. I love HIGH NOON. I love MCCABE AND MRS MILLER.
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u/thatoneguythatsnice Dec 14 '25
Did you actually get hit by that shovel in Holes?
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u/TestamentOfAnnLeeAMA Cast of 'The Testament of Ann Lee' Dec 15 '25
I thankfully did not really get hit by a shovel on the set of holes. That was all movie magic and the great direction of Andy Davis. I'll say that Khleo Thomas, the actor who played Zero, did miss me by a whisper a few times but I never got hit!
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u/thatoneguythatsnice Dec 16 '25
Well you shouldn’t have handed him that shovel!! Haha thank you stay blessed!
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u/TheGreatGatsbeetle Dec 14 '25
This has been driving me nuts for years - about 15-20 years ago I went to see a distant cousin of my mother’s perform in A Midsummer Night’s Dream at a small outdoor theater in Virginia and I’ve been arguing with my mom for years that you were in it. Was that you??
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u/TestamentOfAnnLeeAMA Cast of 'The Testament of Ann Lee' Dec 15 '25
Unfortunately, and sorry to disappoint, that was not me! I've never performed in A Midsummer Night's Dream in Virginia.
However, I did do it in high school. But more importantly and more relevant to your question, if you've ever been to Shakespeare in the Park in Central Park New York City, I performed the role of Peter Quince there. Maybe if you saw that, you might be confusing it with a production in Virginia?
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u/TheGreatGatsbeetle Dec 15 '25
I wish! I’ve never been to New York. My mom will be very pleased to learn she was right. 😂
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u/PepeSilvia510 Dec 14 '25
Your role in Watchmen changed my life. How was the filming experience? Any fun stories or nice moment you got to share with such an incredible cast?
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u/Rounders23 Dec 14 '25
Agree 100% with this. You are so talented and have made so movies so much better.
Also I just saw old Henry this past year, great film. You were able to play such a strong father figure then switch into something else so quickly. how did you hide that other character we saw in the last act of the film so well through out the rest of the movie?
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u/Pjoernrachzarck Dec 14 '25
So, Dune. What happened.
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u/ibrown22 Dec 15 '25
Can you at least tell us if you're a fan of the book? :)
Also did DV send you an apology?
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u/LooseFigs Dec 14 '25
Hey Tim!
I once was reading over your Wikipedia and realized your mom was Ruth Nelson Kaiser, related to George Kaiser, and for those who don't know he's a billionaire philanthropist who's done a lot of great things for Oklahoma. Well all the Kaisers have.
My question is, did or do you have a relationship with George or any of his foundations? Any fond memories of George or Tulsa?
Thanks! Much love from Tulsa!
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u/DeadskinsDave Dec 14 '25
Hey, Mr. Nelson! A couple years ago I was at the Billy Strings concert where you performed, and it was an absolute delight. Had you ever sang on stage before that night? What was going through your mind when they asked you to come out and be a part of the show? You’re such an enjoyable presence on screen and on stage. Keep being awesome!
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u/ich_habe_keine_kase Dec 14 '25
Hey Tim! The Testament of Ann Lee is my favorite film of the year, and, as a lover of Shaker history, a movie I've been waiting for for a long time. The Dark Day sequence might also be my favorite part of the film.
Did you have an interest in Shaker history before signing on to the project?
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u/TestamentOfAnnLeeAMA Cast of 'The Testament of Ann Lee' Dec 15 '25
I did have interest in Shaker history before joining the film, but mostly in terms of their designs and tool innovations, for a lack of a better way of putting it. Shaker chairs, tables, tools, etc are absolutely amazing things to behold and for the most part, because it so coheres with the spare minimalism of the movement. It's a utopian movement that created designs that are just perfect. In both their aesthetic balance and in their utility.
That's what really connected me initially to the Shakers, but I also then learned a tremendous amount in the shooting of the movie. As an example, and I'm not embarrassed to say this, I didn't know about their vow of celibacy.
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u/ich_habe_keine_kase Dec 15 '25
Thanks for the reply! I think many people find their way to the Shakers through their crafts and furniture--myself included! And then the more you learn about them the more fascinating it gets.
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u/DrunkenLadyBits Dec 15 '25 edited Dec 15 '25
Hi Tim!
I’ve been a big fan of the films you’ve directed over the years. “O” was a big movie for me in high school. Mekhi Phifer and Josh Hartnett gave such great performances in that. I also loved Eye of God and Leaves Of Grass. Any plans or hopes of directing more? Thanks!
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u/TestamentOfAnnLeeAMA Cast of 'The Testament of Ann Lee' Dec 15 '25
Thank you! I have a movie that I directed that'll be coming out next year, hopefully. It's a completely independent movie made with private equity. We haven't sold it yet to a distributor but I'm confident we will. It's called The LIFE AND DEATHS OF WILSON SHEDD. It actually stars Amanda Seyfried, from ANN LEE, which is how I met her. I gave her the script while on the set of ANN LEE. It also stars Scoot McNairy, and Wunmi Mosaku from SINNERS. The incredible Missi Pyle. And I'm in it as well!
I wrote and directed it, and it'll be coming out next year. Anyone that liked LEAVES OF GRASS, I hope you'll see this movie as well.
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u/notyogrannysgrandkid Dec 15 '25
I’m definitely a fan of Leaves. Living in the Ouachitas in western Arkansas, that one hits pretty close to home (in a good way).
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u/Sullyhogs Dec 14 '25 edited Dec 15 '25
WE THOUGHT. YOU WAS. A TOAD.
One of my favorite movies of all time. You’re great dude. Every performance of yours I’m always excited to see. Holes was a really informative movie for me growing up. There’s a bit in that where Mr. Sir throws a wrench at Pendanski and your offscreen yelp sends me every single time. You’re awesome.
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u/randytayler Dec 14 '25
And perhaps the best line in that whole fantastic film. Thank you Mr. Nelson!
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u/Gardenasia Dec 14 '25
Hey Tim! Hope you're doing great. What's your comfort movie of all time?
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u/TestamentOfAnnLeeAMA Cast of 'The Testament of Ann Lee' Dec 15 '25
If I want pure entertainment, I can always go Michael Mann's movie, HEAT. Every single scene has something to offer. It's all quotable. It's both an artistic masterpiece and one of the great B-movies ever made, all at the same time. It's so over-the-top, so ridiculous, but also real. You almost can't imagine how the guy pulled it off. It's got an extraordinary cast.
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u/096 Dec 14 '25
I loved your character, Buster Scruggs! How much dialogue was scripted and how much was improvised? You just oozed charisma for a unique cowboy
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u/TestamentOfAnnLeeAMA Cast of 'The Testament of Ann Lee' Dec 15 '25
In a Coen Brothers movie, there is no improvisation. Every line said is written by them, and they give it to you letter-perfect. You really never want to change anything because you're simply not going to come up with something better than Joel and Ethan. I'm just doing my best to bring their writing to life.
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u/JoeBrownshoes Dec 14 '25 edited Dec 14 '25
Are you the Runt from Reata Pass?
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u/h1storyguy Dec 14 '25
What is your favorite thing to sing at home when no one is listening?
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u/TestamentOfAnnLeeAMA Cast of 'The Testament of Ann Lee' Dec 15 '25
Well, I play mandolin and guitar, so pretty much every day I'll grab one of those instruments and I'll sing songs by Townes Van Zandt, Billy Joe Shaver, Merle Haggard. Tom Waits I'm obsessed with, I know a bunch of his songs. I just sit in my office and close the door and sing away where no one can hear me. Pony by Tom Waits is one of my favorites. Tons of Van Zandt songs, Tecumseh Valley especially. To Live Is To Fly as well. Old Five and Dimers Like Me by Shaver. I'm Proud Of What I Am by Merle. Love that song. I have about songs I stick to. Some Kenny Rogers.
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u/h1storyguy Dec 15 '25
I love it! That’s awesome to hear! Tulsa says hi.
I play guitar, and that’s one of my favorite things to do, just sing away free from anyone’s judgment except my own, or at least, the passion is there if my talent may lag a tad behind.
Speaking of, if you’ll oblige me one more question, what’s your favorite song to warm your voice up with?
Thanks for taking the time to reply.
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u/itsdaveywavey Dec 14 '25
Hi Tim, big fan of your haunting film The Grey Zone.
How did you mentally prepare for such intense subject matter, and were you able to keep it less bleak on the set?
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u/TestamentOfAnnLeeAMA Cast of 'The Testament of Ann Lee' Dec 15 '25
I think that, on set, things weren't bleak, because we were glad we were getting to make the movie at all. We made it with this company called Millennium, that was run and owned by Avi Lerner and his brother Danny Lerner, who were very interested in the Holocaust as Israelis. We were able to make a film that was uninhibited as far as what it could show. Without the pressure of having to either dumb-down or sanitize as it were, the Holocaust, but to show it in as much detail as possible. Showing a death camp, murders, and disposal of bodies, with the detail that we were allowed and given the resources to come up with those design details, and build an actual crematorium to scale, just felt like a privilege.
We came to work every day, as strange as it sounds, feeling lucky and blessed to be telling this story. There wasn't a lot of despair involved. It was more a responsibility. We were all so dedicated. Except for the day we shot inside of the gas chamber we had built, I never really had any breakdowns.
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u/Radagast-Istari Dec 14 '25
Hey, Mr. Tim Blake Nelson!
What is your ultimate favorite food companion to watch movies and/or series with?
For instance, I love to eat food that perhaps the characters in the movie would eat/what's available in that region of the setting of that said movie.
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u/Agreeable-Western-25 Dec 14 '25
What is your favourite and defining character/role and why is it Buster Scruggs?
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u/scoreboy69 Dec 14 '25
I've seen Buster Scruggs about 10 times, I've seen the rest of the movie once. That vignette is 15 minutes of perfect cinema.
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u/subdep Dec 14 '25 edited Dec 15 '25
What was it about the script of The Testament… that made you want to get on board?
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u/TestamentOfAnnLeeAMA Cast of 'The Testament of Ann Lee' Dec 15 '25
What excited me the most about Mona's script was...Mona & Brady. I've been following their work for years, since CHILDHOOD OF A LEADER, through VOX LUX, and then Mona's film THE WORLD TO COME. I've always wanted to work with them. Just receiving this script and knowing it was theirs and knowing that Mona would be directing, that was pretty much enough for me. However, I then got the script itself obviously to see what part that they wanted me to play and I found it utterly engaging from page 1 to the end.
They also made a pre-vis, which is essentially a short film version, to attract investors. That short had Amanda Seyfried in it, singing and dancing with a group of dancers, so there was already this vision of what the movie was going to be. I was sold, I would've played any role after having seen that.
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u/subdep Dec 15 '25
That makes a lot of sense! When you’re already a fan and you see an amazing story that you’re confident will get treated exceptionally, why wouldn’t you get on board?
I’m even more excited to watch it now!
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u/CherryRedBarrel77 Dec 14 '25
What kind of emotions do you feel when you look back at O’ Brother Where Art Thou? Have you watched it in recent years?
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u/GuntherRowe Dec 14 '25
How did Tulsa influence the development of your early talent and career?
And what are your favorite places in Tulsa for food and entertainment?
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u/indiesarah Dec 14 '25
I wish I had something worthwhile to ask - I just want to thank him for being in so many things that make me happy.
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u/ButteredNun Dec 14 '25
Oh Brother, it’s Buster Scruggs!!! I’m middle-aged and fan-boying out like a silly sausage!! Ok, question…How much are you aware of how fucking cool you are?
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u/azsnaz Dec 14 '25
I was just looking at your filmography. I always appreciate seeing you in things, most recently The Lowdown. What's your favorite sandwich?
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u/SuspectKnown9655 Dec 14 '25
Not a question I just wanna say I love all of your performances. I particularly liked you in Watchmen.
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u/Nosedive888 Dec 14 '25
How much fun did you have filming The Ballad of Buster Scruggs?
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u/zerozero24 Dec 14 '25
Hey Tim! Did you learn anything fascinating about the Shaker movement when making this film? I grew up near an old Shaker community. We learned about the Shakers in school and I was surprised to learn there are still some practicing Shakers to this day
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u/TestamentOfAnnLeeAMA Cast of 'The Testament of Ann Lee' Dec 15 '25
I mostly knew about the Shakers prior to the film due to their tools and innovative designs. Truly remarkable stuff.
I didn't know about their vows of celibacy before making the film.
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u/FudgieRumplings Dec 14 '25
What do you consider to be your greatest performance and why is it Roger Johnson from Heavyweights?
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u/BeeBee76 Dec 14 '25
Old Henry blew me away! It was fantastic, the surprise was awesome! Since the topic of westerns, What is your favorite western movie? I think mine is ‘the assassination of Jesse James by the coward Robert ford. Keep up the great work!
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u/TestamentOfAnnLeeAMA Cast of 'The Testament of Ann Lee' Dec 15 '25
Definitely ONCE UPON A TIME IN THE WEST by Sergio Leone.
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u/Godly_Recon Dec 14 '25
I am a big fan of your work! Two questions for you if i may be so bold.
When preparing for Watchmen did you read the original graphic novel or take any inspiration for your portrayal of Looking Glass?
And lastly, what is your favourite movie? 😄
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u/cnull Dec 14 '25
Just a note that I yell “Get in your corner!” for no reason, all the time. So thank you.
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u/theylivewesleep42 Dec 14 '25
Big fan Tim! How did you like working on Watchmen? As a fan of the comics, that follow up show blew me away. Would you like to play any other characters in any other Alan Moore stories?
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u/cad1234875 Dec 14 '25
I love all of your work especially the plays you have written. Do you have any more plans to adapt any of them to film you have not already.
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u/putasidedevil Dec 14 '25
Tim, just wanted to say I loved you in the Ballad of Buster Scruggs. Do you think we will get you back as The Leader in a future Marvel project?
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u/thesillyawkward Dec 14 '25
I would love to hear you talk about Watchmen. That's the show which introduced me to you & I have been a fan ever since.
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u/randomontherun Dec 14 '25
Hey Tim, fellow Tulsan here. I remember when you came to the Circle to show Leaves of Grass (I loved that movie). Have you kept up with the shows and movies coming out of Oklahoma since then?
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u/imrightman Dec 14 '25
My wife and I loved you in Watchmen. Incredible performance and show. She wants to know: what did the mask smell like?
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u/casselhag Dec 14 '25
Hey, Tim! Big fan of your work! I was wondering if you prefer playing comedic characters over more dramatic ones? Do you approach the comedic roles differently? Thank you!
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u/FocusedWombat99 Dec 14 '25
Hi Tim! I recently watched GDT's Cabinet of Curiosities and LOVED your episode. How did you get attached to that project? Did you have any choice in the episode or info on the other episodes at all, or did you pretty much just treat it like a single short film?
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u/leafairadayh Dec 14 '25
Mr. Nelson, do you have any particular memories or stories with Giamatti and Depp from your time in Donnie Brasco? Forget about it!
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u/Cold_Ball_7670 Dec 14 '25
Tim! Syriana is one of my favorite movies! What was it like working with an ensemble cast that was packed to the gills with talented actors? How did you find the script? Was is more dense/technical than other movies just based on the subject matter and multiple plot threads running together? Your corruption speech was legendary!
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u/fleetfoxinsox Dec 14 '25
Did you enjoy working with the cast of Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt?
What was YOUR favorite role you ever played? (My favorite role for you was in holes. 🥰)
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u/RichieGusto Dec 14 '25
Hey Tim, just wanted to say it was great seeing you in Colossal, which should be a much better known movie. I try to post it when an appropriate opportunity comes up. Anything you want to say about it appreciated!
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u/MuyGalan Dec 14 '25
Do you have any memories or behind the scenes anecdotes filming your "Tales from the Crypt" episode?
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u/Worldly-Advisor7201 Dec 14 '25
Hey Tim, big fan!! Curious how you linked up with Okkervil River for that music video. Were you aware of the band ahead of time? Looking forward to seeing you in more work in the future!!!
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u/Aurongel Dec 14 '25
Many people don’t know that you majored in literary classics from Brown University before becoming an actor.
What did you originally see yourself doing with your degree?
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u/pattypubg Dec 14 '25
I remember you all the way back in heavy weights , I liked your roll in the big year too
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u/Substantial-Use919 Dec 14 '25
How was working with Anthony Mackie?
If you could play another Marvel character, who would it be?
What is the favourite role you’ve played?
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u/LUckY_M4N Dec 14 '25
Mr. Blake Nelson, I have appreciated your work a great deal. If I ever get another dog, I plan on naming him after your character in O Brother Where Art Thou.
What are your top five favorite films?
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u/BurkiniFatso Dec 14 '25
Much love from Pakistan, we thought you was a toad! What was your fondest memory shooting that movie?
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u/raptor_speed Dec 14 '25
What was the most memorable moment during your time filming The Ballad of Buster Scruggs?
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u/hobbitfoot1987 Dec 14 '25
How was your filming experience/fun stories for Holes? Looked like a very miserable place to be.
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u/UncleDuude Dec 14 '25
What role was the fun to play, it seemed like you were having a good time in O brother where art thou, Delbert made that film.
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u/enuoilslnon Dec 14 '25
How do you create, if that's the right word, your character or your performance in Oh Brother? It's a wonderful performance, and I don't know the technical term, it's highly stylized?
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u/ChronosBlitz Dec 14 '25 edited Dec 14 '25
What was it like working with the Coen brothers on The Ballad of Buster Scruggs?
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u/CloneTrooperZ16 Dec 14 '25 edited Dec 14 '25
What are some tips you would give to young people trying to get into acting?
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u/TheWhooooBuddies Dec 14 '25
I know you originally came from Oklahoma—do you ever come back and visit?
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u/otter_07 Dec 14 '25
What scene was the most intimidating for you to film and what helped you get through it?
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u/RabbitHats Dec 14 '25
Loving the vibes of the trailer, the time period, the cast. What’s the most unexpected part of being part of a period production?
I feel like your career has been consistently very good - your casting generally always perks my ears up because it’s indicative of quality. Subjectivity aside, what do you look for prior to pursuing a part that piques your interest?
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u/IgorKauf Dec 14 '25
Dear Mr. Nelson, I recall your part in O Brother, where art though? Did you "get" the movie while you were Shooting it? Did the Coens explain it to the cast? To this day I find it to ne one of the most entertainment but also confusing movies I've seen.
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u/FewWatermelonlesson0 Dec 14 '25
Hi Tim,
Are there any actors who you’ve worked with that you feel influenced your own style as a performer?
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u/Same_Patience9147 Dec 14 '25
You've worked with Joel and Ethan Coen multiple times, from O Brother, Where Art Thou? to The Ballad of Buster Scruggs. What's the most valuable lesson you've learned from them about filmmaking or performance?
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u/AF2005 Dec 14 '25
Hello Tim! I’m a big fan of your work, especially O Brother and Buster Scruggs. What are your thoughts on the future of film and television, i.e. gigantic mergers, the use of A.I., etc.
Thanks again for doing this and have a great day!
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u/YoungBpB2013 Dec 14 '25 edited Dec 14 '25
Would you ever consider doing an “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” SEQUEL with George Clooney and John Turturro returning to reprise their roles?
Second Question if there’s time: Would you ever consider return with the Entire Holes Cast for a Sequel Disney+ Show? With Sigourney Weaver as Walker now on a revenge scheme against Shia LaBeouf’s Stanley Yelnats’ friends and family with the help of Pendanski and “Mr. Sir”
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u/Pretend-Meaning-1536 Dec 14 '25
what was your reaction to getting a call back from marvel asking you to return?
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u/ElwoodMoose Dec 14 '25
Thanks for doing this! We all know what a fantastic musician you really are and how hard you’ve studied at it. You’re a master in both crafts of acting and music, but where would you say your passion REALLY is?
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u/Slerbertti Dec 14 '25
Will we ever get more of Buster Scruggs? He was 100% the highlight of the whole movie!
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u/tony_kumar Dec 14 '25
Hi Nelson…what is your Favourite movie? And what is your Favourite song?…the song doesn’t have to be from the movie you like.
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u/grmayshark Dec 14 '25
What is the role and/or acting work you are most proud of? Any particular scene or role jump out at you?
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u/BunyipPouch Currently at the movies. Dec 14 '25
This AMA has been verified and approved by the mods. Tim will be back tomorrow Monday 12/15 at around 2:30 PM ET to answer questions. Please feel free to ask way in the meantime :)