During a recent Q&A session with Robert Downey Jr. at New York’s DGA Theater, Timothée Chalamet disclosed that he faced a threatening moment from a background actor while shooting a scene for Josh Safdie’s film Marty Supreme. The incident occurred during a motel sequence involving several non-actors, where Chalamet was trying to provoke genuine emotion on camera.
Background Actor’s Warning Shakes Chalamet
Chalamet explained that although he believed the extra was not reacting as intended, the situation escalated on a subsequent take.
“I won’t say who, but in that motel sequence, there are a lot of non-actors…that I find it really thrilling to work with, but sometimes it would take multiple takes to really get something out of them,”
he shared.
“And I’m really getting in the guy’s face and I’m really trying to get him angry with me. I was saying to Josh, ‘He’s not getting angry with me, he’s not getting angry with me.’”
However, the actor soon realized his assumption was wrong.
“I did another take, and then the guy said, ‘I was just in jail for 30 years. You really don’t want to fuck with me. You don’t want to see me angry,’”
Chalamet recalled with a nervous laugh.
“I said to Josh, ‘Holy shit, who do you have me opposite, man?’”
The Story Behind Marty Supreme and Chalamet’s Role
In Marty Supreme, Chalamet stars as Marty Mauser, an aspiring table-tennis champion pursuing his dream under the direction of Josh Safdie. The film fictionalizes the life of Marty Reisman, a real-life table tennis player who won five world championship medals, offering a complex look at competitive ambition and personal struggle.
Chalamet’s Growing Recognition for His Role
Chalamet’s performance as Marty Mauser has positioned him as a leading contender for this year’s Academy Awards. His portrayal has already earned him acknowledgments from the Critics’ Choice Awards and Golden Globes, alongside a nomination for the Actor Award from SAG. These accolades affirm his powerful presence in the film industry and the impact of his role in Marty Supreme.
Reflections on Gratitude in the Spotlight
Addressing his journey during his Golden Globes acceptance speech, Chalamet reflected on his upbringing and the value of gratitude instilled by his father. He said,
“My dad instilled in me a spirit of gratitude growing up. ‘Always be grateful for what you have.’ It’s allowed me to leave the ceremony in the past empty handed with my head held high, grateful just to be here. But I’d be lying if I said those moments didn’t make this moment that much sweeter.”
Implications for Chalamet and Marty Supreme’s Future Success
The unsettling encounter with the background actor reveals the intense atmosphere and authenticity Josh Safdie aimed to capture in Marty Supreme. Chalamet’s ability to navigate such moments while delivering a critically acclaimed performance highlights his dedication to his craft. As awards season progresses, his role in the film is expected to draw further attention, solidifying his status among Hollywood’s top talents and boosting the film’s prominence.
