Matt Smith, Austin Butler Sport Mohawks in ‘Caught Stealing’

Darren Aronofsky’s new film, ‘Caught Stealing,’ presents a compelling narrative that intertwines crime and identity. The story centers on Henry “Hank” Thompson, a former baseball star turned bartender in bustling New York City. Hank’s mundane life is upended when he is tasked with pet-sitting his neighbor Russ’s cat, unknowingly stepping into a world rife with criminal undertones.

Film Overview

Set at the turn of the century, the film blends elements of black comedy and crime thriller. The vibrant punk aesthetic is a defining feature of its storytelling. This visual style is embodied by key characters, especially Russ, known for his striking mohawk hairstyle.

Character Transformations

Both Matt Smith and Austin Butler underwent remarkable transformations for their roles. Smith plays Russ and maintains his mohawk throughout the film, while Butler’s character, Hank, adopts the hairstyle later in the story.

Mohoawk Styling Process

• Matt Smith debuted his mohawk in September 2024, quickly becoming an iconic look.
• The hairstyle was created by hairstylist John Carter and his team, requiring three days of meticulous work.
• Inspired by ‘80s punk culture, the styling involved complex techniques using glue and heat.
• Smith humorously noted the extensive use of hair products during the process.

Austin Butler’s Transformation

Butler faced his own set of challenges in adopting the mohawk. Initially apprehensive about shaving his head, he eventually embraced the look. This transformation became crucial to the storyline, marking a significant character development point.

Personal Interpretations

Butler described the liberation felt from his haircut, celebrating the film’s completion by diving into the ocean with Aronofsky in Tulum. The parallel journeys of both actors illustrate their dedication to embodying their characters.

Thematic Connection

The mohawk serves as a significant thematic element in ‘Caught Stealing.’ It not only symbolizes a stylistic choice but also marks their personal evolution amid chaos. This transformation encapsulates the characters’ experiences and adds depth to the film’s exploration of identity.

As the film unfolds, audiences are treated to a unique perspective on the intertwined fates of Hank and Russ, further enhanced by the actors’ physical transformations.