After building a 17-year career in acting, Timothée Chalamet has revealed that Interstellar is the surprising favorite project he has worked on. This revelation came during a fan Q&A at his American Cinematheque career retrospective, where the actor reflected on the film’s significance in his life and career.
Chalamet, who began acting with a role in a Season 19 episode of Law & Order, has since worked with acclaimed directors such as Wes Anderson, Luca Guadagnino, Scott Cooper, James Mangold, Woody Allen, Denis Villeneuve, and Greta Gerwig. Yet despite many major roles, it is his small part in Christopher Nolan’s 2014 sci-fi film Interstellar that stands out as his favorite.
Timothée Chalamet Reflects on His Role in Interstellar
Though his role in Interstellar was minor, playing Young Tom Cooper — the teenage version of Casey Affleck’s character — Chalamet described the film as deeply meaningful for him. Set in a future where humanity must search for a new home in space, Interstellar features Matthew McConaughey as a father on that journey. Chalamet explained his connection to the film during the Q&A several days ago, saying,
“Though my role is not enormous in Interstellar — I think I was number 12 on the call sheet — this film came to me at a time in life, in career, where things were certainly not set yet. And it’s remained my favorite project I’ve ever been in. It’s the film I’ve seen the most of all the films ever made in human history [laughs]. And I’m just tremendously grateful to have been a part of this project, and if now is an abundance of good stuff in my life, this came as, like, a little emerald. It came at a time where I really needed it.”
— Timothée Chalamet, Actor
Chalamet’s gratitude towards Interstellar reflects how the film arrived when his career and personal path were still uncertain. Though his part was small, the experience left a lasting impression. Christopher Nolan’s audiences have admired the movie’s ambitious story and visual spectacle, even if it did not reach the same widespread acclaim as some of his other works like Inception or The Dark Knight. The film holds a 73% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, underscoring its status as a notable sci-fi entry.
Christopher Nolan’s Presence and Screening Event
The retrospective event included a special screening of Interstellar on 70mm film, attended by director Christopher Nolan himself. Fans were able to see the movie in a rare format that emphasizes the film’s breathtaking visuals on the big screen. Meanwhile, Chalamet is scheduled to revisit another of his acclaimed roles by appearing in a screening of Call Me By Your Name at the Los Angeles Theater on February 13.
‘Interstellar’ Also Cherished by Oscar Winner Cillian Murphy
Chalamet is not alone in his high regard for Interstellar. Cillian Murphy, an award-winning actor known for his extensive collaborations with Nolan, named the film as a personal favorite. Murphy, who won an Oscar for his role in Oppenheimer, has worked with Nolan on six films. In a recent interview with The Independent, he shared his emotional connection to Interstellar:
“I adore Interstellar just because I find it so emotional. I remember seeing it in the cinema when I had little kids. It just had a big impact on me. It broke my heart. I love watching his films when I’m not in them because you don’t have to freak out about the size of your ears, or whatever.”
— Cillian Murphy, Actor
His fondness highlights the deep emotional resonance the film holds for viewers, especially those connected to Nolan’s body of work. Murphy’s comments also reveal the personal memories attached to watching Interstellar as a family experience, enhancing its significance beyond just cinematic achievement.
Interstellar’s Cast and Legacy
Interstellar features a notable cast, including Matthew McConaughey as the lead father searching for a new habitable planet, and Anne Hathaway in a crucial supporting role. The film’s mix of scientific exploration, family drama, and spectacular visuals has made it a standout in Nolan’s filmography.
Despite being a smaller role for Chalamet, his participation in such an epic film marked an important phase early in his career. It also connects him to a broader web of acclaimed talent and iconic storytelling. The candid remarks from both Chalamet and Murphy serve to underline Interstellar’s place as a project that resonates emotionally with actors and audiences alike.
Looking ahead, Chalamet’s revelation about Interstellar may prompt fans and critics to revisit the film with fresh appreciation. His willingness to highlight a supporting role early in his career shows a humble recognition of how formative experiences contribute to an artist’s growth. With upcoming appearances and screenings, both Chalamet and Nolan’s work continue to engage audiences in meaningful ways.
