Kumail Nanjiani, known for his role in Marvel’s Eternals, recently opened up about the emotional impact of the film’s negative reviews. In an interview on the Inside of You with Michael Rosenbaum podcast, he revealed that despite having the best time filming the movie, the unfavorable reception took a toll on him. Nanjiani’s candid discussion sheds light on the often-overlooked aspect of an actor’s experience: the emotional rollercoaster that comes with critical reviews.
A Stellar Cast and Marvel’s High Expectations
Released in 2021, Eternals boasted a star-studded ensemble cast that included Angelina Jolie, Salma Hayek, Gemma Chan, Richard Madden, and Kit Harington, among others. Marvel Studios had high hopes for the film, evident from the early lifting of the embargo and its inclusion in prestigious film festivals. Nanjiani expressed that Marvel anticipated rave reviews, expecting the movie to be well-received by both critics and audiences worldwide.
The Devastating Blow
However, reality proved to be far from Marvel’s expectations. When Eternals hit the theaters, the reviews were far from positive. The film currently holds a modest 47% score on Rotten Tomatoes, a far cry from the critical acclaim anticipated by the studio. Nanjiani explained how challenging it was to face such disappointment while being thrust into a whirlwind global promotional tour. The immediate aftermath of the film’s release brought with it a barrage of negative feedback that Nanjiani found hard to ignore.
The negative reviews took a heavy toll on Nanjiani’s mental health. He admitted to reading many of the critiques, which only intensified his emotional distress. It was during this challenging period that the actor realized the extent to which he valued external validation and assessments of his work. Nanjiani unhappily came to terms with the fact that he had been relying too much on the opinions of others to evaluate his own work and find fulfillment.
Recognizing the detrimental impact of external judgment on his emotional well-being, Nanjiani made a pivotal decision to seek professional counseling. He acknowledged the need to break free from the clutches of public validation and create a healthier relationship with his craft. Nanjiani explained that he and his wife, Emily, felt that the situation was unfair to both of them and that a change was necessary.
Lessons Learned
The experience with Eternals and its negative reception served as a wake-up call for Nanjiani. He realized that attaching too much importance to external opinions would only hinder his personal growth and happiness. The actor’s decision to pursue counseling signifies his commitment to cultivating a healthier mindset and reevaluating his approach to work.
Kumail Nanjiani’s candid account of the emotional turmoil he faced following the lukewarm reception of Marvel’s Eternals sheds light on the vulnerability and pressures experienced by actors. The negative reviews not only affected his mental health but also prompted him to reevaluate his reliance on external validation. Nanjiani’s decision to seek counseling serves as a powerful reminder that one’s self-worth should not be solely dependent on the opinions of others. This introspective journey undoubtedly marks a turning point in Nanjiani’s career, propelling him towards a healthier and more fulfilling approach to his craft.