Darren Aronofsky Slams Method Acting: 'It’s Just Something To Hide Behind'

Working on a film set with a method actor who goes so far in their experience that they need to treat the Crew badly as part of their character reminds me what Laurence Olivier told Dustin Hoffman when he went 72 hours with no sleep: "My dear boy, why don't you just try acting?"

During a candid masterclass hosted by La Cinémathèque Française in Paris, director Darren Aronofsky didn’t mince words when it came to Method acting. “I hate Method actors,” he declared, dismissing the long-revered performance technique as a distraction. “It’s just something to hide behind, as opposed to doing the work and being professional.”

Aronofsky, best known for psychologically intense films like Black Swan and Requiem for a Dream, emphasized that acting is ultimately “make believe.” He encouraged discipline and preparation over theatrics, comparing the craft to sports: “To be a great basketball player, you don’t have to be dribbling all the time.” For Aronofsky, the magic happens “between action and cut”—not in living out a role 24/7.

While he didn’t name names, Aronofsky's upcoming leading man in Caught Stealing, Austin Butler, has been known for immersive character work. Still, the director showed a touch of humor and tolerance, saying, “It’s fine if that’s how [these actors] want to spend their time. But I just encourage them to relax a bit!”

Later, Aronofsky drew creative connections between Caught Stealing and his earlier work, calling the new film “a beautiful exercise” in genre filmmaking. He praised Butler as the “anchor” of the movie, around whom the entire world was built.

On a more philosophical note, Aronofsky reflected on how the mood of his films often reflects the cultural moment. “When I made Requiem for a Dream, Paris Hilton was the most famous person in the world. Now, Trump is the most famous person. So I need to work even harder to be an optimist.”

With bold insights and a bit of cheek, Aronofsky reminds us that great filmmaking starts with authenticity and craft—not constant roleplay.

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Source: Variety

Photo Credit: Mirimax/Warner Bros.