Why You Might Want to Take a Breather

Not winning an Oscar can often provoke unexpected reactions from actors. Take Leonardo DiCaprio, for example. Each time he faced defeat at the Academy Awards, he pushed himself harder until he delivered a grueling performance in *The Revenant*, a film where he literally put himself through hell for acclaim. Similarly, Lady Gaga went so deep into her role in *House of Gucci* that she reportedly adopted the character's mannerisms for nine long months, becoming almost unrecognizable in her method acting.

Now, we turn to the talented Timothée Chalamet. On paper, he seems to have all the accolades necessary: starring in two films nominated for Best Picture—*Dune: Part Two* and *A Complete Unknown*—broadening his appeal to diverse audiences, from young viewers and sci-fi enthusiasts to the nostalgic dads of the world. With upcoming roles, he seems to be well positioned—after all, if he were to land the lead in a *Bridget Jones* reboot, he’d have all demographics covered.

Yet, despite this impressive portfolio, Chalamet recently faced disappointment as he lost the Best Actor award to Adrien Brody. This setback appears to have influenced his intense dedication to his latest project, *Marty Supreme*, where he plays a professional ping pong player. The film’s release is expected during the holiday season, a prime timing for awards season. However, it raises questions about the pressure he faces and the lessons he might be drawing from past experiences.

Chalamet reportedly devoted “months and months” to mastering ping pong to portray his character authentically, as revealed by the film’s cinematographer, Darius Khondji. While commendable, this obsessive preparation makes one wonder—does true dedication to a role always equate to success? Khondji emphasized that while technical camera tricks can enhance a film, the authenticity of the actor’s performance relies fundamentally on a deep understanding of the character.

*Marty Supreme*, directed by Josh Safdie, promises a unique experience not just for filmgoers but also as a showcase of countless real-world personalities, including elite ping pong players. However, with such a heavy reliance on comprehensive immersion, one can't help but question the toll such a method might take on one's mental health.

The current Academy Awards landscape serves as a reminder that extraordinary performances do not always garner recognition. The competition this year highlighted this disparity perfectly—with Jeremy Strong, known for his thoughtful approach to acting, up against Kieran Culkin, who claimed the win with a performance that resonated through its relatable charm rather than heavy preparation.

Timothée, as you step back into the spotlight with your role in *Marty Supreme*, remember that sometimes, a little balance is key. Taking a break for personal growth and mental wellness could be just what you need to truly shine—not just on film, but in life. After all, the chase for an Oscar doesn't have to overshadow the simple joys of rediscovering oneself outside of the character you’re portraying.