The "Les Miserables" ensemble is currently out on the promotional circuit, making a big deal about their live, on-set singing in the movie musical. But Jack Black planted that particular flag well before the "Les Miz" gang, playing the gospel-loving title character in Richard Linklater's dark comedy "Bernie."
In this excerpt from the Envelope Screening Series, Black, who was raised Jewish and fronts the rock band Tenacious D when he's not acting, talks about discovering -- and appreciating -- a new genre of music.
"I had not listened to any gospel before, so it was helpful to get into the skin of the character," Black says. "I had a lot of fun singing those songs, even though it's much different from the music I usually perform. I'm more of a heavy metal guy, personally. But it's passionate music, singing about the Lord, and some of them definitely got under my skin."
Asked if there was one particular inspiration, Black immediately zeroed in on the actor best known for playing Gomer Pyle on television.
"You know who's great? Jim Nabors," Black says, breaking into an appreciative imitation of Nabors' baritone voice, singing the hymn "Blessed Assurance."
Listening to it, we can only offer one additional thought: Shazam!
ALSO:
The Envelope Screening Series: Complete Videos
Academy announces documentary feature shortlist
Led Zeppelin loosens its grip on using its music in film
