Kristen Stewart Critiques Method Acting as Unmasculine
Kristen Stewart has recently shared her thoughts on Method acting, igniting a conversation about gender dynamics in the film industry. During an interview with the New York Times, Stewart described acting as “quite embarrassing and unmasculine” by nature.
The Vulnerability of Performance
In her comments, Stewart highlighted the vulnerable aspect of performance. She argued that Method acting allows some male actors to avoid confronting this vulnerability. “Performance is inherently vulnerable and therefore quite embarrassing and unmasculine,” she stated. “There’s no bravado in suggesting that you’re a mouthpiece for someone else’s ideas. It’s inherently submissive.”
Historical Context
Stewart’s critique connects back to iconic figures in acting. She referenced Marlon Brando’s infamous mispronunciation of “Krypton” in the 1978 film “Superman.” This incident was recalled in a discussion about how Brando maintained artistic integrity while participating in what some consider a “sellout movie.”
Gender Dynamics in Hollywood
According to Stewart, Hollywood tends to glorify male actors who manage to maintain their sense of self, while female actors face different scrutiny. “Brando sounds like a hero, doesn’t he? If a woman did that, it would be different,” she remarked. This gender disparity raises questions about how male and female actors are perceived in similar situations.
Physicality and Performance
Stewart criticized the notion that physical acts, like doing push-ups before a take, could somehow alleviate the embarrassment of vulnerability. She explained, “If they can protrude out of the vulnerability and feel like a gorilla pounding their chest before they cry on camera, it’s a little less embarrassing.”
Anecdotes and Industry Norms
The actress also shared a conversation that reinforced her belief about the different expectations for male and female actors. She inquired if a fellow actor had ever encountered a female actor who used Method acting, to which he replied, “Oh, actresses are crazy.”
- Kristen Stewart critiques Method acting as “unmasculine.”
- Describes acting as inherently vulnerable.
- References Marlon Brando and Sean Penn in the discussion.
- Highlights gender disparities in Hollywood treatment.
- Challenges the glorification of physical displays of masculinity in performance.
Stewart’s remarks underscore the ongoing debate surrounding Method acting, urging a reevaluation of how gender influences perceptions in the acting profession. For more insights on her perspectives, readers can explore her full profile in the New York Times.
