Chloë Sevigny recently opened up about her experience working with Christian Bale on the set of American Psycho. She admitted to finding Bale’s acting process to be “very intimidating.” Sevigny, known for her gregarious and goofy personality, struggled to connect with Bale’s Method acting approach. She expressed feeling overwhelmed by Bale’s seriousness and wished for more generosity from him to ease her nerves. Sevigny confessed to being confused by the Method approach since she never had any formal training, and the whole concept was alien to her. This lack of understanding further intensified her unease with Bale’s acting style.
In contrast to Sevigny’s sentiments, her co-star Josh Lucas had a different perspective on Bale’s acting. Lucas mentioned that initially, he believed Bale’s acting was “terrible.” However, upon reflection, he realized that Bale’s choices were actually brilliant and showcased his ability to portray complex layers in his performances. Lucas came to recognize that Bale was operating on a completely different level as an actor, and his initial skepticism was unfounded. This acknowledgment highlights the subjective nature of interpreting acting styles and the diverse reactions actors can have to their co-stars’ methods.
American Psycho, directed by Mary Harron, is a film adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis’s novel and features Bale in the lead role of Patrick Bateman. The story revolves around Bateman, an investment banker who moonlights as a serial killer. Alongside Bale, the film stars a talented ensemble cast, including Sevigny, Lucas, Willem Dafoe, Jared Leto, Samantha Mathis, and others. Bale’s portrayal of Bateman received critical acclaim for its intensity and complexity, solidifying his reputation as a versatile actor capable of delving into dark and intricate characters.
The behind-the-scenes dynamics between actors can significantly impact their on-screen performances. Sevigny’s struggle with Bale’s Method acting and Lucas’ evolving perception of it illustrate the complexities of the acting process. While Bale’s approach may have initially alienated some co-stars, his dedication to his craft ultimately yielded exceptional results. The collaborative nature of filmmaking allows for diverse interpretations and reactions to different acting styles, contributing to the richness and depth of on-screen performances.