"It just became me": Machine Gun Kelly and the reality of his semi-biopic 'Taurus'
Looking back on rapper-turned-actor Machine Gun Kelly's semi-autobiographical film 'Taurus', his on-screen therapy, and the hope that his story could inspire others with turbulent lives.
Updated : October 20, 2023 05:25 PM ISTLooking back on rapper-turned-actor Machine Gun Kelly's semi-autobiographical film 'Taurus', his on-screen therapy, and the hope that his story could inspire others with turbulent lives.
Machine Gun Kelly (Source: Billboard)
"It just became me." Machine Gun Kelly, or Colson Baker, as he is known in the world of acting, shed a nostalgic light on his Berlin Film Festival semi-biopic 'Taurus', in a recent retrospective view.
A Confluence of Reality and Fiction - The Tale of 'Taurus'
In 'Taurus', a film that blurs the lines between reality and fiction, Baker takes on the role of Cole, a successful rapper navigating the pitfalls of superstardom. The similarities between Baker and Cole, as reported by Reuters in 2022, are far from coincidental. "We almost were shying away from it being autobiographical," he revealed.
Cole's narrative reflects Baker's early career highs marred by struggles with substance abuse. The character Ilana, portrayed by Maddie Hasson, acts as Cole's personal assistant, enduring his manic episodes and tirelessly attempting to keep his life on track.
As the film portrays skipped meetings, persistent drunkenness, and cocaine addiction, Cole's life spirals downward, mirroring some of the harsh realities that Baker himself faced.
On-Screen Therapy and Hopes for Inspiring Others
This turmoil provided Baker with an opportunity for healing. "I got to have on-screen therapy for things that I never really dealt with," the artist confessed, offering an intimate look at the therapeutic aspect of acting.
A pleasant surprise for fans was the brief appearance by Baker's fiancee Megan Fox, who portrayed Cole's ex-wife in the film. Initially titled "Good News", the film was later renamed 'Taurus' in sync with Baker's star sign.
Baker expressed his wish that his turbulent journey portrayed in 'Taurus' might become a source of inspiration for others. "I'm more hoping that people can watch it and I'm the muse for someone to find their own inspiration and finding a will to live," he said.
The cinematic and personal journey of Machine Gun Kelly in 'Taurus' thus serves as a compelling testament to the transformative power of art and the resilience of the human spirit. As we look back, one cannot help but marvel at this raw and powerful portrayal of a life lived on the edge, and the hope that it could light the path for others in similar struggles.
(Several parts of the text in this article, including the title, were generated with the help of an AI tool.)