During a recent Q&A session at New York’s DGA Theater, Timothée Chalamet disclosed a tense encounter while filming for Josh Safdie’s Marty Supreme. The actor explained that a background performer issued a serious warning to him during a motel scene, highlighting a rare moment of real intensity on set as part of his experience with the film.
Unforeseen Tension During Filming
Chalamet described how the motel sequence involved numerous non-actors whom he finds thrilling to work with, although eliciting strong emotions from them often required multiple takes. He recalled trying to provoke anger from one particular man during the scene, expressing frustration that his efforts did not initially seem to provoke the desired reaction.
“I won’t say who, but in that motel sequence, there are a lot of non-actors…that I find it really thrilling to work with, but sometimes it would take multiple takes to really get something out of them,”
Chalamet said.
“And I’m really getting in the guy’s face and I’m really trying to get him angry with me. I was saying to Josh, ‘He’s not getting angry with me, he’s not getting angry with me.’”
The Unexpected Threat That Emerged
Contrary to Chalamet’s initial impression, during another take, the background actor suddenly revealed a startling past and delivered a warning that shifted the mood on set. The actor’s real-life history made Chalamet realize the gravity of the situation and the seriousness behind the underlying tension.
“I did another take, and then the guy said, ‘I was just in jail for 30 years. You really don’t want to fuck with me. You don’t want to see me angry,’”
Chalamet shared with a nervous laugh.
“I said to Josh, ‘Holy shit, who do you have me opposite, man?’”
Chalamet’s Role and Accolades in Marty Supreme
In the film, Chalamet portrays Marty Mauser, a determined table-tennis athlete who pursues his dream of championship success. Marty Supreme is a dramatized depiction based on Marty Reisman, a historic table tennis figure who earned five world championship medals. The film blends intense sports drama with elements of personal struggle.
The actor is widely recognized as a frontrunner in this awards season for his role in the movie, having earned nominations and accolades from the Critics’ Choice Awards, Golden Globes, and the Screen Actors Guild. His portrayal has drawn considerable praise for its depth and authenticity.
Reflections from the Awards Circuit
During his Golden Globes acceptance speech, Chalamet expressed the values instilled by his family, emphasizing gratitude regardless of outcome. This modesty and reflection highlight the emotional complexity surrounding his rising stardom and the challenges faced along the way.
“My dad instilled in me a spirit of gratitude growing up. ‘Always be grateful for what you have.’ It’s allowed me to leave the ceremony in the past empty handed with my head held high, grateful just to be here. But I’d be lying if I said those moments didn’t make this moment that much sweeter.”
– Timothée Chalamet
The revelation of this intense moment on set demonstrates the unpredictability involved in filmmaking, particularly when working with non-professional actors. As Marty Supreme continues to gain critical attention, this behind-the-scenes glimpse adds a layer of real-world tension to Chalamet’s compelling performance and the film’s gritty storytelling.
