Jennifer Lawrence recently revealed how Christian Bale profoundly influenced her approach to acting during their time together on the film American Hustle. The Oscar-winning actress credited Bale’s work ethic and presence for helping her overcome early insecurities, boosting her confidence and deepening her understanding of the craft. This experience reshaped her perspective on acting and preparation.
From Feeling Embarrassed to Embracing the Craft
Reflecting on her early days in the industry, Jennifer Lawrence admitted she used to feel self-conscious about performing in front of the crew. She said,
“I was 23 and very sensitive about getting embarrassed in front of the crew,”
Jennifer Lawrence said, looking back on filming American Hustle with Christian Bale.
“I thought acting was embarrassing. And so I would make a point of not acting until I absolutely had to, at ‘action,’”
she added in conversation with the New York Times Magazine.
Seeing Bale’s process changed her mindset completely. She observed,
“When the crew started getting ready, the lights started getting ready, and it became clear we were going to start rolling soon, he would slowly start getting ready,”
Lawrence explained.
“I was like, That seems like a good idea and I should do that when I’m more mature and can handle people looking at me and being like, ‘Pshh, she’s acting,’”
she said. This shift allowed her to shed the embarrassment and embrace her work more fully.
Lessons from Directors and Co-Stars on Confidence and Commitment
Working with directors like David O. Russell played a crucial role in toughening Lawrence’s approach to acting. She credited Russell with helping her stop worrying about how a director runs the set, allowing her to focus more on her performance. Meanwhile, Lawrence spoke highly of Leonardo DiCaprio’s dedication when filming Don’t Look Up, admiring his detailed commitment to his characters. Describing DiCaprio’s discipline, she said he knows not only when his character was born but also
“what kind of cologne they wear,”
demonstrating the depth of his preparation.
Upcoming Projects and Personal Preparation Style
Jennifer Lawrence also teased her involvement in an upcoming film directed by Martin Scorsese, titled What Happens at Night. She joked about her usual approach to preparing for roles, which involves moments of panic followed by a brief consultation with an acting coach before relying on her own instincts. Despite this unconventional routine, the growth influenced by Bale and other collaborators has clearly shaped her evolving professionalism and passion for acting.
