A Journey of Passion and Preparation
Timothée Chalamet, fresh from the success of his latest film, Marty Supreme, has not only shown his acting prowess but also his dedication to the craft. This time around, the acclaimed actor spent an impressive seven years mastering table tennis, preparing for his role as the fictionalised Marty Mauser, inspired by real-life table tennis legend Marty Reisman.
Chalamet shared that he was approached with the project back in 2018, which gave him ample time to train diligently. “I trained as much as possible in all my downtime,” he said, illustrating just how committed he is to making every aspect of his performance authentic.
“The responsibility in this movie is to ensure that if you're a ping-pong aficionado, it looks believable on screen.”
Unfortunately, the actor confessed that his commitment to honing his craft came at a price, particularly when compared to the time he spent learning guitar for his Oscar-nominated performance in A Complete Unknown.
Life in the Limelight
As Chalamet gears up to celebrate his 30th birthday on December 27, right after the film's release, he reflects on the changes he's experienced in his twenties. “It's been great. I feel like I'm living in a dream,” he told BBC's Colin Paterson during their recent interview.
His on-screen character Mauser might be caught in questionable predicaments—like engaging in illicit heists and attempting to destroy a sponsor's marriage—but Chalamet embraces the essential folly of youth: “When you're in your early twenties, you're an idiot.” With laughter, he affirms that this movie captures that essence perfectly, reinforcing his own journey of self-discovery.
Tying It All Together
In an unexpected twist, Chalamet's conversation veered into the realm of pop culture when he casually mentioned his admiration for none other than Susan Boyle. Yes, you read that right—the Scottish singer known for her powerful rendition of “I Dreamed a Dream” during her Britain's Got Talent audition.
“She dreamt bigger than all of us,” he passionately declared. The memory of Boyle's performance still resonates with him, as he recalls, “That was like the advent of YouTube.” It's fascinating to see how the actor acknowledges influence from an artist who represents authenticity and raw talent—a stark contrast to the often polished world of Hollywood.
The Challenge Ahead
As the Oscar buzz swirls around him, particularly with impending competitions against established giants like Leonardo DiCaprio, Chalamet expresses cautious optimism regarding cinema's fate amid the streaming era. “I do think cinemas will survive and thrive,” he stated. “Not to be a false optimist, but I strongly believe this film is exactly what people want to see in a theater.”
Chalamet's conviction highlights a critical takeaway: original films like Marty Supreme are vital for the cinema landscape, especially during a time when reboots and sequels dominate. While engaging in playful banter about his upcoming promotional tour—in which he dons matching outfits with Kylie Jenner and other big names—he remains resolute in his artistic purpose.
Bringing it to the People
In a unique promotional twist, Chalamet has been giving out jackets emblazoned with the film's title to individuals he considers “true greats.” The eclectic mix includes everyone from singer Frank Ocean to football prodigy Lamine Yamal, adding a personal touch to the buzz surrounding the film.
“This is an original film at a time where a lot of original films aren't made.”
Conclusion: Ready for the Next Chapter
As the film makes its way to cinemas on Boxing Day, it will not only mark a significant milestone in Chalamet's career but also serve as a reflection of his growth as both an artist and a person. By intertwining personal passion with professional ambition, Timothée Chalamet invites audiences to not just witness a story but to participate in a celebration of life—flaws, triumphs, and all.
Source reference: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/clyd1m47rkro
