Ethan Hawke on Blue Moon and Why There Won't Be Another 'Before' Film

At 54, Ethan Hawke has nothing left to prove. With four Oscar nominations but no wins, he's at peace with that fact—a lesson learned from Denzel Washington 24 years ago when they were both nominated for "Training Day." Washington told him then: "Awards don't define you. It's the work that matters."

Now, Hawke reflects on his latest collaboration with Richard Linklater, "Blue Moon," which reunites them 12 years after the "Before" trilogy. In a recent interview, the actor opened up about why Linklater took such a deliberate approach to this new chapter.

"Richard is an artist who values the right moment," Hawke shared, his eyes lighting up at the memory. "He didn't rush this. He wanted to wait until the story felt complete, until the characters had lived enough life to justify returning to them."

Hawke emphasized that the "Before" trilogy—"Before Sunrise," "Before Sunset," and "Before Midnight"—always felt like a perfect circle. "Those films captured love in its different phases," he explained. "We met them young and in love, watched them navigate midlife, and saw their mature love. It was a complete journey."

When asked about more "Before" films, Hawke shook his head gently. "I don't think so. Richard and I both felt these characters had said what they needed to say. They've grown up with us. Forcing another chapter would feel... unnatural."

The actor described "Blue Moon" as a bittersweet conclusion to their collaboration. "It's about life's fleeting moments and the beauty of time passing," he said. "We're older now, wiser maybe. The conversations are deeper, but the heart remains the same."

Hawke also spoke about his personal connection to the characters of Jesse and Celine. "They're not just roles anymore," he admitted. "Over 30 years, they've become part of me. Writing and filming with Richard is like having a conversation with an old friend who truly understands you."

As for his own legacy, Hawke remains philosophical. "I'm proud of the work," he reflected. "If people remember Jesse and Celine, if they feel something when watching those films—that's the real award."

Read the full interview and more details on "Blue Moon" on Variety.