Five Questions with a Man We Love: Francis Lyon

The oldest son of cult favorite, Benedict Lyon, and famed novelist, Grace Robertson, Francis Lyon (25) is Hollywood royalty, even if he doesn’t believe it. After a foray into political science at Georgetown University, where his younger brother is currently enrolled, Francis has returned to his Hollywood roots. He’s been spotted on the sets of Thirteen, The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou, and most recently, Shane Black’s upcoming feature Kiss Kiss Bang Bang.

Are you thinking about becoming an actor like your father?

No. The thought has never crossed my mind. With great actors there’s always a sort of exorcism as they get into character, a dismissal of self. They transform into another person and I can’t do that. My mind isn’t built that way.

You were Second AD on Catherine Hardwicke’s Thirteen. Are you thinking about directing instead?

I have to admit, I don’t have much of a career plan. Not currently. I’ve known Catherine since I was seventeen. She hired me after I expressed interest in a more hands-on experience. Prior to that I was a PA, which is something I’ve done since high school. I guess you could say that I’m trying out a lot of different things, seeing what sticks. If nothing does, I’ve always wanted to own a malt shop.

I don't think they make those anymore.

Haberdasheries were extinct for a while, but they just opened one a few blocks from my apartment.

Where do you live?

The Village. I know, that explains everything I just told you.

Cliche question time, what’s your favorite movie?

François Truffaut's Les Quatre Cents Coups (The 400 Blows). My grandfather, who was the one to show me the film, has immense respect for the French New Wave, and Truffaut is the threshold of that movement. It was also the first time I truly connected to a character. I don’t know one thirteen year old boy who hasn’t felt aimless and suffocated like Antoine. Les Quatre Cents Coups is transcendent and timeless. I’ve told my grandfather if he leaves me nothing else, his original print is what I want.

What’s the one thing women wear that catches your attention?

Is nothing an answer? [Laughs] Um. I honestly don’t know. Shorts, maybe? I don’t see a lot of women wearing them. Dresses and skirts, yes. But a woman in shorts is almost an anomaly.

Last question, and this one is a classic, blondes or brunettes? And who rocks your preference the best?

My knee-jerk response is brunette, but can I say both? For the brunette, I’ll go with Vivien Leigh. For the blonde, Veronica Lake.

That’s old Hollywood. How about new?

Alright. Brunette, Penelope Cruz. Blonde, Cate Blanchett.