Gery Seidl: "Nous ne pouvons pas gérer l'échec"

Gery Seidl, an Austrian comedian and actor known for his sharp wit and versatility, has spoken candidly about his struggles with failure and the pressures of modern life during a recent interview. The conversation took place in a cinema hall, fitting given his recent success as the star of the Christmas comedy Aufputzt is', which ranks among Austria's most successful films of all time. Now, Seidl has taken on a new role as the voice of Dr. Nutcase in the upcoming film Toy Story 5, set for release on July 23. He described his character as “afraid, desperate, and helpless,” reflecting the anxieties of being replaced by technology in a rapidly evolving world. Seidl, who began his career as a stage performer before transitioning into film and television, emphasized that his lack of formal training has shaped his approach to work. “The right question would be: What can I actually do?” he said. “That’s what happens when you don’t learn a trade. I’m an experimenter. That means I don’t claim perfection. I just do things the way I can.” His casting as Dr. Nutcase, a small, whining toy figure in Toy Story 5, was attributed to his Austrian accent and his ability to convey vulnerability through performance. In discussing his character, Seidl highlighted the broader societal shift toward digital dependency. “Nutcase belongs to the old generation of toys and has been replaced by tablets and smartphones,” he explained. “He fears not being needed anymore in the children’s room. What we see around us confirms this fear.” Seidl noted how people are increasingly glued to their phones, checking social media constantly and even using devices to pacify children during family trips. While he admitted he himself avoids such habits, he criticized the trend, suggesting it stifles creativity and undermines meaningful human interaction. When asked how he resists the lure of constant connectivity, Seidl responded with characteristic candor. “I barely manage the 24 hours each day offers,” he said. “I have many interests and do many things because I don’t want to miss out on beautiful possibilities. An hour on my phone and then not knowing what I saw, this is dead time for me. If I learn something new, sure. But for entertainment because I’m bored? No. It’s too precious to waste.” Beyond his professional endeavors, Seidl touched on personal challenges, including physical ailments. During the interview, he revealed he had turned to yoga after experiencing back pain. “A dear friend gave me five exercises as homework,” he said. “Unfortunately, I’m very lazy. Still, my back feels better. Remaining mobile in advanced age, meaning over 50—is extremely important.” He added, “You’re only old when the mayor congratulates you.” Reflecting on turning 50, Seidl acknowledged the impact of the pandemic on his perspective. “When I turned 50, the pandemic was happening, which changed my view of life,” he said. Though he did not elaborate further, the comment underscores the profound shifts in personal and collective experience brought about by global events. Seidl’s journey from a construction site worker to a celebrated entertainer has been marked by resilience and reinvention. When asked about his decision to leave his previous profession, he stated, “I didn’t leave out of spite.” His career path reflects a deep commitment to exploring different facets of performance, whether through stand-up comedy, film, or voice acting. As Toy Story 5 approaches its release date, fans and critics alike await Seidl’s portrayal of Dr. Nutcase, a role that promises to blend humor with poignant commentary on obsolescence and adaptation. With his latest project, Seidl continues to challenge audiences with his unique blend of satire and sincerity.